MOMENTUM • VIRGINIA TECH MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 17
The mechanical engineering technical elective course includes more than flying . In both Africa and Blacksburg , students conduct experiments in flight stability and control that include construction and flight test of reconfigurable gliders . They also perform experiments in propulsion , wireless communications , imaging , and flight control .
The course also provides the opportunity for a student to walk away with the Trusted Operator Program ( TOP ) certification from The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International ( AUVSI ), the world ’ s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of unmanned systems and robotics . This certification identifies proficient drone pilots who have been trained to fly with regard to established safe practices .
Students also earn the FAA remote pilot part 107 license , allowing operators to professionally fly aircraft under 55 pounds . For students who may be interested in doing commercial or professional work with unmanned aerial vehicles , this is a full package of next-level skills .
Kochersberger views the class as a response to the fast-growing sector of drone technology and air mobility . “ I ’ m thrilled to see our students gain these professional certifications while learning drone use and operations . I ’ m sure they will reflect on this as a fun and valuable component to their degree program .”