Computadora
Tecnología

This new Aviation program offers three pathways: Aviation Survey / Ground School, Aviation Mechanics I, and Commercial Drone Operations with FAA Remote Pilot certification preparation. Aviation Survey and Aviation Mechanics are offered jointly with Indian Valley Vocational Center in Sandwich, Illinois. If these courses run in 2027-2028, students will need to provide their own transportation to the Aurora Municipal Airport in Sugar Grove. Anticipated fees may be adjusted depending on the cost of materials and supplies.

Grades: 11, 12

Upon completion, students will be prepared to take the private pilot written exam.

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Recommendations: Students must have effective communication skills, the ability to follow instructions, the ability to work as part of a team, problem-solving skills, patience and confidence, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to adapt to change.

Units of Study: Pilot careers, Air Traffic Control, Aviation Maintenance Technology, Airport Management, Airport Safety Management, Aviation Dispatch, and other FAA career options including Weather Specialist, Personnel Management, Electrical Technician, Computer Technician, Flight Data Specialist, Traffic Management Specialist, and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Tasks include study skills, map reading, reading and understanding Federal Aviation Regulations, separation of aircraft, terminology, communications, aviation phraseology, and visiting facilities.

Related careers: Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Airline Transport Pilot, Air Ambulance.

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Grades: 11, 12

First year of a two-year sequence

Recommendations: Students must have effective communication skills, follow instructions, work as part of a team, solve problems, show patience and confidence, demonstrate mechanical aptitude, and adapt to change. Units of Study include aerodynamics, aircraft design, stability control, FAA regulations and publications, aircraft instruments, aircraft weight and balance, aircraft skin maintenance and repair, riveting and sheet-metal repair, forming and layout, and corrosion control.

Tasks include riveting and sheet-metal repair, oxyacetylene welding, ground handling of aircraft, avionics installation and repair, electrical wiring, oil and tire changes, identifying hand tools and shop equipment, repairing brake systems, and identifying suspension systems and components. Related careers include Aviation Maintenance Technician, Flight Operator, Crew Scheduler, Aircraft Maintenance Director or Supervisor, airline marketing, aircraft-parts sales, and Pilot.

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Grades: 11, 12

Credits: 2.5 for the year

Recommendations: Basic technology familiarity and an interest in aviation, STEM, or entrepreneurship. Ideal for students pursuing careers in aviation, construction, agriculture, public safety, surveying, real estate, media, or environmental services.

This year-long, hands-on course prepares students to become safe, certified commercial drone pilots. Students master drone-flight fundamentals, FAA regulations, mission planning, and real-world commercial applications while working toward the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107). Using DJI Mini drones in our airport-free environment, students build proficiency through outdoor practice and industry-style projects. The course emphasizes safety, professionalism, career readiness, and FAA exam preparation.

Students learn to safely operate small unmanned aircraft systems, complete preflight inspections and emergency procedures, interpret airspace, weather, sectional charts, and performance data, plan commercial missions such as mapping, photography, and inspections, and process drone-captured data using industry software. All students are prepared to sit for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot knowledge test at an approved testing center. The exam fee is approximately $175; FVCC can assist with scheduling and transportation. Students develop industry-recognized skills and a portfolio for resumes, college applications, internships, entry-level commercial drone work, freelance opportunities, and advanced UAS programs.

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Expected Outcomes and Certifications

All students are prepared to sit for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot knowledge test at an approved testing center. The exam fee is approximately $175. FVCC can assist with scheduling and transportation.

Students develop industry-recognized skills and a portfolio for resumes and college applications, with pathways to entry-level commercial drone work, internships, freelance or part-time work, and advanced UAS programs.

Anticipated fees may be adjusted depending on the cost of materials and supplies.

Students who earn their CompTIA Security+ certification may have the opportunity to receive college credit through Waubonsee Community College.  

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