TCC alum lands dream job at NASA

Kyle Epperly is a Tidewater Community College alum twice over. He earned his first associate degree in Automotive Technology in 2006. For the last 12 years, he worked at Hall Automotive as a master technician.

Kyle came to TCC once again looking for a new career. He wanted work that was less physically demanding, more challenging and on the cutting-edge of technology.

He found TCC’s Mechatronics degree online and started a new journey.

While at TCC, Kyle learned about an internship opportunity at NASA Langley. He applied and began working there in January of 2023. He is now an engineering technician apprentice and working on testing structures for spacecraft.

Mechatronics is suited for students like Kyle with a passion for technology who enjoy hands-on work. He said, “The transition from being an automotive technician to working in mechatronics has been easy. I’m still doing what I’ve always loved which is working with my hands and technology.”

Mechatronics students spend about half the time in classroom instruction and the rest in state-of-the-art laboratories. Kyle said, “What I liked most about TCC is that it gave me the skills that I actually use in my job now. Every class was hands-on which really helped me understand the material. You don’t just learn theory but get to see how the systems really work.”

The Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics covers motor controls, hydraulics, computer programming, pneumatics, programmable logic controllers and more. The broad industry allows students to use the degree to specialize in something they love or do something different each day.

Kyle is part of the Materials and Structures Experiment branch where he performs tests to ensure that materials measure up to NASA’s durability expectations.

The mechatronics industry is constantly growing and expanding which provides people the opportunity to continually increase their knowledge in the field. There are plenty of advanced manufacturing firms in Hampton Roads that provide graduates with ample job prospects. According to the Department of Labor Job Outlook, mechatronics technicians earn a median salary of $60,360 per year or about $29 per hour.

Kyle is confident he made the right decision to return to school and pursue this career. He said, “I am grateful that my family was so supportive and pushed me to find the time to pursue this degree while still working a full-time job. It was worth all the hard work.”

For more information regarding Mechatronics at TCC, contact Thomas Stout at tstout@tcc.edu or call TCC’s Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111.

Mitsubishi Chemical America supports Mechatronics students with scholarships and careers

Tidewater Community College is the recipient of a $5,000 donation from Mitsubishi Chemical America in support of scholarships for high school students. This donation brings the company’s giving to TCC to $21,225 over the last five years.

Mitsubishi Chemical America’s donation supports scholarships for Chesapeake Public School students dual enrolled in the college’s Mechatronics program. The goal of the program is to prepare students for work in advanced manufacturing upon graduation.

“Our industry leaders tell us that they are in need of skilled technicians, and our graduates are well prepared for the work ahead,” said Beno Rubin, Dean of the college’s Manufacturing and Transportation Pathway. “We’re grateful for the support of our industry partners as we train the next generation of technicians.”

Dylan Starowicz is a Mechatronics graduate who now works at Mitsubishi Chemical America – ALPOLIC division in Chesapeake.

Students start taking classes in their junior and senior years on TCC’s Chesapeake Campus, training in state-of-the-art labs with professors who have abundant industry experience. Classes cover everything from industrial robotics, digital systems, electric motor control, programmable logic control and instrumentation.

“Manufacturing has changed considerably since we began operations in Chesapeake 30 years ago. The TCC Mechatronics program develops a technically skilled workforce that will help us continue to innovate in the years to come,” said Bill Yannetti, Chief Operating Officer of Mitsubishi Chemical America – ALPOLIC Division.

Mitsubishi Chemical America was among a group of local manufacturing firms that launched this scholarship in 2018. Company representatives also serve on TCC’s advisory committee for Mechatronics.

Students looking to train for careers in advanced manufacturing have two new options

Are you looking to train for a mechatronics career in a hurry?

Then consider Tidewater Community College’s new Career Studies Certificate in Mechatronics Trainee. This certificate can be completed in just two semesters and includes the technical and hands-on training necessary for work in advanced manufacturing facilities. The coursework focuses on safe work habits and the basic skills needed for an entry-level skilled worker.

If you want to learn even more, consider the two-semester Career Studies Certificate in Mechatronics Technician. You will learn to perform maintenance on mechanical, electrical and control systems, and also how to troubleshoot machinery.

“We developed this curriculum with our industry advisory committee as a way to train skilled technicians for work as quickly as possible,” said Eric Beaver, Mechatronics department chair. “Once students are on the job, they often get the rest of their studies paid for by their employer. These new certificates are a win-win for everyone.”

Kerry Tebow earned the associate degree and has worked in the industry for a decade.

Both of these Career Studies Certificates stack into the Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics and are taught by expert instructors with industry experience. With the graying of the advanced manufacturing workforce, skilled technicians are in high demand.

The associate degree covers motor controls, hydraulics, computer programming, pneumatics, programmable logic controllers and more. It is a one-of-a-kind program in Hampton Roads.

Workers already in the field can train to advance in areas that include new construction, maintenance and assembly lines in major manufacturing plants.

The median pay for a Mechatronics technician with an associate degree is $59,800 according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Mechatronics courses are offered days and evenings. Laboratory work is completed in the Precision Machining Lab and the Mechatronics Lab on the Chesapeake Campus.

For more information about the Mechatronics program, email Beaver at ebeaver@tcc.edu.

Apply now for TCC’s STEM Promise Program

High school seniors, adult learners and military-related students who want to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) can apply to Tidewater Community College for a scholarship that pays four semesters of tuition and fees in full.

The TCC Women’s Center STEM Promise Program will award 20 scholarships for the 2021-22 academic year. Recipients will graduate ready to enter a career or to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

“Demand for workers with skills in higher-paying STEM fields is expected to continue to outpace demand for non-STEM workers over the next decade,” said program coordinator Jaedda Hall. “This program is designed to create a larger and more diverse STEM workforce pipeline for our local area and beyond.”

STEM Promise Program scholars benefit from TCC’s smaller class sizes, specialized support from advisors and STEM career exploration and mentoring from the college’s Women’s Center.

You may qualify if you:

have a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher (or GED equivalent);
are eligible for in-state tuition;
place into College Composition (English 111) and PreCalculus (Math 161) or higher;
have earned no more than 24 TCC credits at the time of application submission.

Scholarship recipients must enroll as full-time students in one of the following TCC programs:

These associate degrees transfer to bachelor’s programs at four-year institutions. Graduates may be eligible for a Two-Year Transfer Grant from Virginia’s Community Colleges, which provides up to $3,000 annually for STEM students who complete their final two years at select universities in the Commonwealth.

Although the scholarship is aimed at women and minorities, anyone can apply. The deadline is April 1, 2021.

Interested students must first apply for admission to TCC. From there, they can apply for the scholarship by visiting www.tcc.edu/stempromise.

For more information, contact the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111 or email info@tcc.edu.

Live! From inside a Machine Technology lab

In this series, we provide a closer look at hands-on learning during COVID-19.

While COVID-19 means online learning for most Tidewater Community College students, some are back in the classroom for hands-on training. In fact, more than 400 sections of classes in interior design, automotive, health professions, welding, veterinary technology, culinary arts, visual arts, electronics technology and other programs have on-campus components.

A peek inside the Precision Machining Lab

Lathes. Computer numerical control mills. Measurement tools.

Students in Rick Dyer’s machining classes are hands-on with state-of-the art equipment at the Precision Machining Lab on the Chesapeake Campus. It’s the same stuff they’ll encounter in the real world.

Students at work in the Precision Machining Lab on Chesapeake Campus.

Students complete the lab work at their own pace for several classes, including Machine Shop Practices (Machining 161) and Cooperative Education in Machine Technology (Machining 297).

In the basic course, they learn safety procedures and master hand tools, precision measuring instruments, drill presses, cut-off saws, engine lathes, manual surface grinders, and milling machines.

“Tonight, we’re making a motor shaft, gauge blocks and drill gauges used for sharpening drill bits,” Dyer said. “We’re thrilled to be back in the space because trying to learn online is tough. You have to see it and feel it to really do this work.”

Safety remains a priority in light of COVID-19.

“We have plenty of room to work and we are being diligent about cleaning the machines and tools between users,” Dyer said. “We’re using a plant-based disinfectant that kills germs but also protects the equipment from corrosion.”

Student voices

“This is an excellent program. With my full schedule it’s very helpful to have these labs in the evenings,” said Andrew Crowe, an IT tech in the Navy, retraining for a career as a metal worker. “I’m enjoying the interactions with classmates. It gets lonely teleworking at home, so this is a great distraction, and it’s preparing me for what comes after the military.”

“In here, you’re not working on a computer screen, and what you make you have in your hand. It either works or it doesn’t,” said Chris Smith. “We’re getting excellent instruction from Mr. Dyer, who is an expert in the field.” Smith is making a motor shaft and expanding his skills so he can get into fabrication. He currently works as an electrical engineering tech for the Coast Guard.

Chris Smith
Casey Matthews

“I love working with machinery and making things,” said J.D. Evett. “I got away from this work 20 years ago, and I’m so glad to be back into it.” Evett is working on a surface grinder making a set of gauge blocks. He transferred to TCC after his program shut down at another college due to COVID-19. He said he is grateful to continue learning to get closer to his goal.

Carter Casady
preparing to cut his block.

“It’s still surprising to see the tool come to life when we cut it,” said Carter Casady, a dual-enrolled high school sophomore from Kellam High. “I’m enjoying the machining as well as actually being in a lab and talking to other people.”

Good to know

The Precision Machining Lab prepares students for work in advanced manufacturing on the seven basic machine tools: turning machines, shapers, and planers, drilling machines, milling machines, grinding machines, power saws, and presses.

The lab includes computer numerical controlled mills, lathes, and surface grinders, along with numerous manual machine tools.

The lab is used by TCC students studying Machine Technology, Mechatronics, Maritime Technologies and Engineering.

About the instructor

Rick Dyer studied machining at Southeastern Regional Technical High School and completed his journeyman certification in 1981. He served 22 years in the Navy as a machinery repairman. After retiring, he worked for Newport News Ship Building as a planning engineer until accepting a teaching position with Norfolk Public Schools.

He studied career and technical education at Old Dominion University and holds a master’s in community college education. He has been at TCC since 2007, teaching engineering graphics, manufacturing and mechatronics at the Chesapeake and Virginia Beach campuses. In 2019, Dyer became the program lead for the Machining Technology Program.

Sign up

To learn more about TCC’s hands-on career and technical programs, including Machine Technology, email Dyer at rdyer@tcc.edu or email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

TCC opens new robotics lab on Chesapeake Campus

Tidewater Community College’s Chesapeake Campus celebrated the opening of its new robotics lab on Nov. 18 at a community event that included the city’s mayor, Rick West.

“Once again, Tidewater Community College is leading the way in training, and this is especially important as we continue to grow in the manufacturing sector and other areas,” West said.

Faculty member Eric Beaver shows Jim Spore, Corey McCray and Mayor West how to operate one of the FANUC robots.

Also in attendance: Chesapeake Public Schools Superintendent Jared Cotton, a TCC alumnus; Shonda Pittman-Windham, program administrator, Chesapeake Career Center; Barry Brown, principal at Deep Creek Elementary School and a member of the TCC College Board; and Jim Spore, chief executive officer of Reinvent Hampton Roads and a member of the TCC Real Estate Foundation Board.

“This afternoon we are cutting the ribbon on a new robotics lab, one that will help our students master the modern automation and control technology used in today’s manufacturing industry,” said Corey McCray, interim executive vice president for academics and student affairs. “With the availability of manufacturing jobs in Hampton Roads steadily ticking upward, we continue our commitment to training skilled workers for competitive careers in the industry.”

More than 40 guests attended the robotics lab ribbon cutting.

The lab contains six state-of-the-art FANUC (Fuji Automatic Numerical Control) robots and training stations. The TCC lab is part of the FANUC Education Network, with students following the company’s curriculum and learning industry applications.

Faculty members Eric Beaver and Tyrone Goodman, both from the college’s Mechatronics program, designed the lab.

“We have some pretty impressive equipment in this lab,” Beaver said. “Each robot has a vision system and can track objects and be programmed to complete tasks. FANUC is the industry standard and these robots are exactly what students will see on the job.”

Interim Provost James Edwards invited McCray, Cotton, West and Beaver to share in the ceremonial snip.

Although Nov. 18 marked the official opening of the lab, TCC and CPS dual-enrolled mechatronic students have used it throughout this fall semester. The labs hum with activity daily with 16 students in each section.

“I’m pleased to be part of the opening of TCC’s robotics lab, a state-of-the-art addition to the Mechatronics program and a shining example of our shared vision to prepare students for STEM jobs of the future,” Cotton said.

Cotton also noted that the first cohort of 15 CPS dual-enrolled mechatronics students graduated in May 2019. Today, three of those students earn competitive wages and benefits in local manufacturing firms, while others are continuing at TCC to earn their associate degrees in just one year.

TCC students Taylor Pules, Tyjuan Jones and Cory Blume at work in the robotics lab.

Tyjuan Jones, a current student employed at IMS Gear, refers to himself as the “robot guy” thanks to the knowledge he gained in the lab.

“It’s a lot to learn every day and always something new. I like it all, but the troubleshooting is my favorite part,” he said.

Cory Blume, also with IMS Gear, added, “This is definitely the most interesting class, and it’s a great opportunity to practice in a safe zone before taking it to the job.”

From here, go to work in advanced manufacturing

If you look at the fronts of McDonalds or Starbucks or even the student centers on Tidewater Community College’s campuses, you’ll see Alpolic^®, a composite material that adds color and dimension and, of course, coverage to each building.

TCC graduate Dylan Starowicz is at work on the lamination line for Alpolic^®, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Composites America in Chesapeake.

At 19 years old, he is earning a competitive full-time salary with benefits. Starowicz earned his Career Studies Certificate in Mechatronics at the same time as his diploma from Great Bridge High.

“It’s a good idea to give people different avenues to go down, not just traditional college,” Starowicz said. “It’s important to get students to think about technical careers and branch out to try different things.”

Chesapeake Public School (CPS) dual-enrolled mechatronics students started taking classes in their home high schools as sophomores and spent part of their junior and senior years on TCC’s Chesapeake Campus training in state-of-the-art labs.

“The old manufacturing jobs don’t exist anymore. Now it’s all computer-controlled, and we are looking for people who can use their minds, not their backs,” said Bill Yannetti, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Chemical. “Students who’ve gone through the TCC program bring a definite skill set, and they have value in our company right away.”

Thanks to partnerships with the City of Chesapeake Department of Economic Development and the advanced manufacturing sector, all of the CPS dual-enrolled students were awarded full scholarships by area firms. Donor companies include Mitsubishi Chemical, Sumitomo Machinery Corporation of America, USUI USA, Yupo Corporation America, GeoQuip Manufacturing Inc., Air Systems, Inc., Manufacturing and Design Technology, Inc., Nitto Inc., and TowneBank.

Mechatronic students also earned industry credentials and can apply all their credits to an Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics, which they can complete in just one year.

“Dylan is a breath of fresh air,” said Tim Elixson, production manager at Mitsubishi Chemical. “You actually can hear the education speaking for itself. He asks a lot of forward-thinking questions.”

“This is what the program was created for and I wish I had more candidates just like him.”

Starowicz monitors machinery, troubleshoots problems and ensures quality control of products coming off the line.

“There was a little learning curve at the start, but I’ve settled in,” he said. “I’m very fortunate to have this opportunity and see it as a stepping stone for my career.

“I feel like I’ve come full circle. They helped me out and now I’m working for them.”

From here, go to work as a mechatronics technician

Many of Tidewater Community College’s certificate programs and associate degrees lead to immediate employment or, in some cases, employment while you’re still in college. We feature these on an occasional basis in our series “From here, go to work.” Here’s a look at one option.

From grocer to IMS Gear

After high school, Cory Blume was working in a local grocery store and going to school part-time. Uninspired, he began exploring other options. After coming to a TCC Open House, and watching a mechatronics demonstration that included a robot and 3-D printer, he changed course.

Commuting from Suffolk, Blume,25, began working toward his mechatronics degree at the Chesapeake Campus.

“I loved the energy of the campus and the people. From the beginning it’s been a positive experience,” he said.

Three semesters into TCC’s program, Blume toured IMS Gear, an advanced manufacturing firm in Virginia Beach. He learned about full-time apprenticeships and applied on the spot.

Two years later, Blume is excelling at IMS Gear and at TCC. He works with engineers, maintains equipment and installs new systems and stations on the assembly line.

“I definitely have that feeling that this is what I’m supposed to be doing,” he said. “I get up ready to go and always look forward to learning – both at school and on the job.”

Blume will complete his Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics in December.

“All of my professors have been fantastic,” he said. “They have a depth of knowledge that comes from years on the job. One of my favorite things is tackling a problem in lab, and then seeing that exact same thing on the line at work.”

Mechatronics today:

With the graying of the advanced manufacturing workforce, skilled technicians are in high demand. TCC’s Mechatronics degree prepares technicians for high paying jobs in two years or less.

The Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics covers motor controls, hydraulics, computer programming, pneumatics, programmable logic controllers and more. It’s a one-of-a-kind program in Hampton Roads.

Workers already in the field can train to advance in areas that include new construction, maintenance and assembly lines in major manufacturing plants.

Combining book smarts and hands-on work:

Dean Stout in the Precision Machining Lab.

Mechatronics is suited for technically savvy students who enjoy hands-on work. Students spend about half the time in classroom instruction and the rest in state-of-the-art laboratories

“The lecture portion provides in-depth theory, and the labs bring it all together,” said Thomas Stout, dean of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. “Most of the instructors are industry pros, giving students a real-world view of the required work.

“Most lines have hundreds of motors and sensors and a computer with programmable logic that tells the line to stop, start and do multiple functions. To be successful, employees have to understand the sequence and how it all comes together.”

The future is bright:

Plenty of advanced manufacturing firms are located in Hampton Roads, providing graduates with ample job prospects. According to the Department of Labor Job Outlook, mechatronics technicians earn a median salary of $57,790 per year or about $27 per hour.

More info:

For more information about the Mechatronics program at TCC, contact Jeff DeCastillia at jdecastillia@tcc.edu or call TCC’s new student support team at 757-822-1111.

Chesapeake Public School students career-ready thanks to partnership with TCC

What started with an idea and talks between leaders at Tidewater Community College and Chesapeake Public School six years ago will culminate on May 13 when 52 students from the city graduate with career and technical training credentials.

Thanks to a partnership between TCC and CPS, these high school graduates are prepared for in-demand careers in areas that range from mechatronics to pharmacy technology to welding.

Made for mechatronics

Mechatronics graduates — The first cohort in mechatronics includes (front row, left to right) Hunter Wood, Demeatris Williams, Jordan White, Ryan Laing and Jemimah Barnes. Behind them are Nathan Hippolyte, Dylan Starowicz, Nico Collins, Nathaniel Davis, Jevon Harrington, Quinton Anderson, Jeremy Herrold, Ashton Ludlam, Cody Baker and Hayden McCarthy.

Fifteen dual-enrolled mechatronics students will graduate with their Career Studies Certificate in Mechatronics.

They started taking classes in their home high schools as sophomores and spent part of their junior and senior years on TCC’s Chesapeake Campus training in state-of-the-art labs.

Classes have covered industrial robotics programming, digital systems, electric motor control, programmable logic control and instrumentation.

“Our industry leaders tell us that they are in need of skilled technicians, and our graduates are well prepared for the work ahead,” said Thomas Stout, dean of science, engineering, math and technology. “We’re proud of this first cohort, as they are paving the way for many students to follow.”

The graduates will ultimately work on advanced manufacturing systems, often referred to as “smart” devices, in the areas of machinery design, construction and repair.

Thanks to partnerships with the city’s Department of Economic Development and the advanced manufacturing sector, all of these students were awarded full scholarships by area firms. Donor companies include Mitsubishi Chemical Composites America, Sumitomo Machinery Corporation of America, USUI USA, Yupo Corporation of America, GeoQuip Inc., Air Systems, Inc., Manufacturing and Design Technology, Inc., Nitto Inc. and Towne Bank.

Jemimah Barnes, a senior at Deep Creek High earning her mechatronics certificate, plans to study electrical engineering at Morgan State University. “I’ve enjoyed the program and feel well prepped for college,” she said. “I’ve gained technical skills and learned so much.”

Dylan Starowicz, a Great Bridge High senior, added, “It’s been great to get a head start on my associate degree, and now I’m sure I want to do this as a career.”

Mechatronic students also earned industry credentials and can apply all their credits to an Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics, which they can complete in just one year.

Working the circuit

Electrical wiring gradutes — Electrical wiring graduates include (front row, left to right) Josh Williams, Patrick Billups Jr., Adam Turlington, Logan Albaugh, Brandon Bundick and (back row, left to right) Logan Panchana, Seth Waugh, Lars Grooms, Maynard Lawhorn, Asher Brown, Reagan Smelkinson, Kowan Lee Jr., Thaddeus Quinata and Amillion Poore.

Across the hall from the mechatronics lab, the second cohort of Electrical Wiring for Technicians students has worked to earn career studies certificates.

The class of 14 spent one academic year studying residential wiring and methods for industry. They also earned their Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA 10 cards, which certify them in industry safety standards. They are prepared for entry-level positions as electrician helpers.

“I’m amazed at how this class has turned out,” said Patrick Billups, a senior at Hickory High. “I learned the basics for less money, and the instructors have been really helpful.”

Instructor Bob Shanks, a master electrician who joined the college in the mid-’90s, added, “Students come in without any knowledge, and we can teach them from the ground up. I like it that way because we don’t have to undo any bad habits.”

Pharmacy technicians of tomorrow

Pharmacy Tech graduates are (front row, left to right) Cassandra Coppola, Destiny Davis, Ayanna Farmer-Lawrence, KyAura Goodman and (back row, left to right) Atlas Bonney, J’La Edwards, Taylor Skyles and Robert McFadden.

The Pharmacy Technician program is another first for CPS and TCC dual enrollment programs with the initial cohort of eight students graduating with career studies certificates.

Students spent one academic year at the Chesapeake Career Center in a classroom fitted with a mock pharmacy that includes a counter, cash register and plenty of “products” to dispense.

They are prepared to order, stock, package, prepare and dispense medication under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. They can also sit for the national pharmacy tech exam to become certified pharmacy technicians.

“Now I have work I can do while in college, and I get a boost ahead since I already have this knowledge,” said J’La Edwards, a senior at Indian River High who plans to continue at TCC and attend pharmacy school at Hampton University.

Another hot career

Welding graduates for the morning session are Arlin McCourt, Timothy Davis, Tony Highter, Bryce Rivers, Jason Walters, Jonathon Kasperbauer, Jacob Priest, Lucas Brown and Ryan Yonka.

The Welding graduates for the afternoon session are Seth Messinger, Deandre Crandle, Brandon Reichelderfer, Derek Klein, Hayden Lowery, Kyle Ball and Mason Krawzik. — Graduates for the afternoon session are Seth Messinger, Deandre Crandle, Brandon Reichelderfer, Derek Klein, Hayden Lowery, Kyle Ball and Mason Krawzik.

With masks on and sparks flying, 15 students honed skills by earning welding certificates at the Chesapeake Career Center.

The two-year program covered oxyacetylene (gas) welding, arc welding and inert gas-shielded techniques.

Jason Walters, from Deep Creek High, plans a career in welding. “I love welding because I get to work with my hands. I enjoy the teamwork and learning new skills, too.”

Upon completion of the program, students can sit for certification exams through the American Welding Society.

Flying high this summer

Remember watching “The Jetsons” and seeing the kids “delivered” to school via spaceship? Well, flash forward to 2018 and we have the technology to build and operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), better known as drones, but we don’t have a trained workforce to operate them.

That is where Tidewater Community College professors Judy Gill and Eric Beaver come in. Thanks to a grant from the National Science Foundation, administered by the Virginia Space Grant Consortium, the pair participated in the Geospatial Technician Education-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (GeoTEd-UAS) project.

GeoTEd-UAS is a statewide partnership to develop the UAS workforce through new career pathways and faculty training for professors at Virginia’s Community Colleges. More than 20 faculty participated this year.

This is the second year of training for Gill and Beaver, who earned their Federal Aviation Administration’s UAS Pilot License before attending this year. Gill, who teaches math, and Beaver, who teaches mechatronics, spent a week planning and flying missions, collecting and processing data and learning to write reports on findings.

They also reviewed federal and state regulations, learned about repairing and maintaining vehicles and discussed integrating student service-learning projects into college pathways.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to bring back to TCC what we learned and to share that knowledge with our students. We see the necessity for this type of training across many disciplines,” Gill said.

Gill and Beaver will now work with TCC’s curriculum committee to develop courses for UAS, a rapidly growing technology. In fact, the college may eventually launch a career studies certificate in UAS.

“As drones continue to become more widely used, the development, repair, programming and building of these devices will require trained technicians with a mechatronics background,” said Beaver. “Familiarity with UAS is going to be a required skill for the technological workforce of 2020, or even sooner.”

Other areas of use for drone training across disciplines may include horticulture, criminal justice, civil engineering technology and photography.