ACTC launches new drone pilot training program in partnership with Alpha Drones USA
Published on Jul 14, 2026
Ashland Community & Technical College (ACTC), in partnership with Alpha Drones USA, Inc., is offering a new short-term drone pilot training program designed to prepare participants for careers in the rapidly growing drone industry.
This eight-week, non-credit training program provides a comprehensive pathway for individuals looking to gain the skills and certification needed to legally operate drones for commercial purposes.
The program is open to both ACTC students and members of the broader community, making it accessible to career changers, working professionals, and lifelong learners.
Participants will receive a blend of live virtual instruction, self-paced study, and in-person flight training led by experienced drone pilots.
Throughout the eight-week course, students will prepare for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 Remote Pilot exam while gaining hands-on experience flying drones in a supervised, in-person setting.
In addition to technical training, participants will benefit from mentorship by expert drone pilots and develop the knowledge needed to legally operate drones in commercial environments.
Upon completion, graduates will also be eligible to apply for opportunities within Alpha Drones USA’s growing hiring network.
“This program represents an incredible opportunity for individuals in our region to step into a high-demand, technology-driven field,” said Robin Harris, Associate Vice-Chancellor of Workforce Solutions at ACTC. “Whether someone is exploring a new career path or looking to enhance their current skill set, this training provides both the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed. We’re proud to partner with Alpha Drones USA to bring innovative workforce opportunities like this to our community.”
“Through our partnership with ACTC, we are building more than a training program—we are creating a credentialed pathway into the commercial drone economy. Alpha Drones prepares people not only to earn their FAA Part 107 certification, but also to develop the practical flight skills, industry knowledge and professional readiness required to succeed in the field,” said Kelvin King, Founder and CEO of Alpha Drones USA. “By connecting accessible education with our growing network of commercial opportunities, we are helping local talent turn new capabilities into meaningful careers while building the skilled pilot workforce this industry will need to scale.”
Upon successful completion of the program and passing the FAA Part 107 exam, participants will earn their certification, opening the door to career opportunities in industries such as public safety, construction and infrastructure inspection, real estate and media production, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.
The program requires a commitment of several hours per week outside of scheduled class sessions to review materials and prepare for the certification exam. No prior drone experience is required.
Alpha Drones USA will be holding an information session about the course on Wednesday, July 29 at 6pm where prospective students will have the opportunity to learn more about the course and ask questions. Register for the Info Session here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/eb6829d1cf81b1cc65e632bf9c056e20?r=use1
The course will run from August 18 through October 3, followed by a certification period from October 3-13. Classes will meet on Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm and Saturday mornings from 10 to noon via Zoom.
Participants will complete in-person flight training on October 24 and 25.
Tuition for the program is $4,999, and tuition assistance may be available for those who qualify.
Individuals interested in learning more are encouraged to attend the upcoming virtual information session and register for the program.
For more information, visit https://actcworkforce.kctcs.edu/products/drone-pilot-training-program-100-actc-8492
