MAYS LANDING – The National Science Foundation has awarded Atlantic Cape Community College a $551,818 grant for its proposed Preparing Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Data Technicians project, which addresses the evolving landscape in the field of small, unmanned aircraft systems.
The program includes advancements in miniaturized sensors, development specialized data processing software and the use of machine learning for analysis. The industry is poised to see another round of significant growth, driven by the impending additions to regulatory frameworks that will increase the opportunities for sUAS operations.
“Atlantic Cape recognizes the industry-driven demand to expand its existing sUAS technician curricula. 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,” said Dr. Josette Katz, senior vice president of Academic Affairs.
The project emphasizes instrument training for advanced sensors, including light detection ranging (lidar), 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 anticipated outcomes of the project include an increased number of faculty trained to deliver new curricula, a diverse student population benefiting from the programs, and measurable results in terms of enrollment, retention, and graduation/credentials earned. By aligning the education provided with industry needs, the project strives to meet the workforce demand for skilled sUAS data technicians and contribute to the growth and advancement of the field.
Computer Information Systems Professor James Taggart will serve as principal investigator. Assistant Professors Kenneth Cabarle and Anthony Esposito will serve as co-principal investigators, with Professor Judith Otterburn-Martinez rounding out the program’s faculty team. This new associate degree option is tentatively scheduled to launch for the fall 2025 Semester.
Visit atlanticcape.edu/aviation for more information.
