Participating students of a Carroll University seminar got a chance to soar through the sky on August 25 during a one-day presentation on drone flight and safety. The seminar, in connection with Carroll’s new Aviation Science minor was led by Michael Mortensen, Tim Tyre, PJ Kirkpatrick, John Palese and George Sargent in an effort to teach the community about drone operation and air safety.
The seminar attracted participants of all ages, with attendees ranging between 18 and 50 years old. Among them were alumnus Tim Lempere and Charles Waitkus, a student considering Carroll for his college experience who has interests in graphic design and drone technology. Lempere's attendance was sponsored by the department of Visual and Performing Arts and Waitkus was supported by the Graphic Communications program.
Attendees learned about important Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, drone mechanics, filming/photographing using drones, editing drone footage and drone flight. After being tested on a preflight checklist and specific flight maneuvers, three of the students were given a chance to fly their own drone for the first time down at Carroll’s Van Male Gymnasium.
“This seminar was what I was hoping for in order to get a good idea about the technology, regulations and safety (regarding drone science),” said William Farrow, an associate professor at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and seminar attendee.
Michael Mortensen, a distinguished lecturer in Carroll’s Graphic Communication program and instructor at the seminar, shared his thoughts on the importance of the event. “With drones becoming more and more popular, it is important to know and follow the FAA rules and regulations regarding drones. With the proper drone training we can fly safe and fly smart in today’s airspace.”
If you are interested in learning more about aviation science, check out Carroll’s Aviation Science minor for additional course information.