Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Program Description

This comprehensive course is designed to equip aspiring drone pilots with the knowledge and skills required to obtain their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. The curriculum covers essential topics such as airspace classification, regulations, weather considerations, flight operations, risk management, and emergency procedures.

Students will gain an understanding of UAV technology, operational best practices, and legal responsibilities for commercial drone use. The course includes hands-on flight training, real-world case studies, and practice exams to ensure students are well-prepared for the FAA Part 107 certification test.

2 students flying a drone

By the end of the course, participants will have the confidence and expertise needed to pass the FAA Part 107 exam and operate drones safely and legally in commercial and professional environments.

Key Topics Covered:

  • FAA Part 107 regulations and requirements
  • National Airspace System (NAS)
  • Weather and its impact on drone operations
  • Flight planning and safety procedures
  • Drone performance and maintenance
  • Remote pilot responsibilities and ethical considerations
  • Practice tests and exam preparation strategies

This course could be a good fit for individuals looking to start a career in commercial drone operations, real estate photography, aerial surveying, agriculture, or other UAV-related industries.

Summer 2025 Program Details

  • Application deadline: May 18 is the priority deadline. Applications received after the deadline may be considered if there is space. 
  • Program dates: June 25 - July 15 (no school July 3, 4, or 11) with testing scheduled after July10.  Program times are between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
  • Notification of selected applicants: Early June
  • Location: Foss High School
  • Approximate hours to complete: 90
  • Graduation Credit: 0.5 elective credits 
  • Certification(s) offered: FAA107 Remote Pilot Certification and Financial Literacy through EverFi
  • Special considerations for this program: FAA107 certification requires students to be 16 years old or older
  • For additional information, please contact Jeff Klancke: jklanck@tacoma.k12.wa.us

Apply now

  • May 18 is the priority deadline. Applications received after the deadline may be considered if there is space.
  • TPS students must be logged into their TPS account to apply
  • Applications take 15-20 minutes to complete
  • Students will be asked to provide contact information for themselves and a parent/guardian
  • Read the program description, requirements and dates prior to applying.

TPS Student Application  Non-TPS Student Application

Unmanned Vehicle Careers by the Numbers