Atlantic Cape Community College (NJ) has won a $551,818 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to fund “Preparing Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Data Technicians,” which will address the evolving technology landscape of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS).

This includes advancements in miniaturized sensors, development of specialized data processing software and the use of machine learning for analysis. 

“Atlantic Cape recognizes the industry-driven demand to expand its existing sUAS (small uncrewed aircraft systems) technician curricula,” said Dr. Josette Katz, senior vice president of Academic Affairs. “The goal is to develop an Associate in Applied Science Degree option and a series of short-term stackable certificate programs focused on equipping students with the skills to collect, process and securely manage sUAS data”.

The project emphasizes instrument training for advanced sensors, including light detection ranging, laser methane detector, ground-penetrating radar, real-time kinetic global positioning systems, infrared and hyperspectral imagers. 

“By integrating these technologies into the curriculum, Atlantic Cape aims to prepare students for the  demands of the industry and provide them with practical skills in data collection, management, and analysis using sUAS,” Katz said.

The project strives to meet the workforce demand for skilled sUAS data technicians and contribute to the growth and advancement of the field.