BLINN COLLEGE TO SHOWCASE DRONE TECHNOLOGY AT DRONEFEST SEPT. 25
The Blinn College District invites prospective students, families, community members, and industry partners to explore the rapidly evolving world of drone technology during DroneFest on Friday, Sept. 25, at the Blinn College-Brenham Campus.
Hosted from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Innovation (STEI) Building, DroneFest will give participants an opportunity to experience drone technology firsthand through demonstrations, interactive activities, and presentations highlighting the expanding applications and career opportunities associated with unmanned aircraft systems.
After DroneFest, participants can take a guided tour of the Brenham Campus and learn more about the student experience at Blinn.
Designed to showcase Blinn’s Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drone) Technician Program, DroneFest offers participants the opportunity to connect with faculty, see drone technology in action, and discover how Blinn prepares students for careers in this fast-growing field.
“Drone technology is transforming industries ranging from agriculture and infrastructure to public safety and logistics,” said Victoria Fowler, Dean of Mathematics, Business, Engineering, and Technology. “DroneFest allows prospective students and members of our community to experience this technology firsthand while learning about the education and hands-on training available at Blinn.”
Offered at the Brenham Campus, Blinn’s Drone Technician Program includes an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and Level-1 and Level-2 certificates, providing students with multiple pathways to develop the technical skills employers need.
“Our program provides students with hands-on experience using the technology they will encounter in the workforce,” Fowler said. “Whether they are seeking a certificate that allows them to develop career-ready skills or a full associate degree, students can choose the pathway that best fits their goals.”
Students interested in applying drone technology to criminal justice, law enforcement, and public safety may also be interested in Blinn’s Criminal Justice Occupational Skills Award with Drone Specialization. This specialized credential combines foundational criminal justice coursework with drone flight training to prepare students for emerging public safety applications.
Drone technicians maintain, troubleshoot, and operate unmanned aerial vehicles used in applications ranging from aerial photography and surveying to emergency response and cargo transport. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2024 median annual salary for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians was $79,140.
DroneFest also provides local businesses, public agencies, and community organizations an opportunity to explore ways drone technology can support their operations and workforce needs.
Registration for the come-and-go event is free and available at www.blinn.edu/drone-technician.
(Story courtesy Blinn Information)