First Eight UND UAS students complete training.
The University of North Dakota has teamed with Corsair Engineering to provide University students with cutting edge training systems for their education in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
Students pursuing a UAS major at UND are using the ScanEagle UAS as an example platform to learn mission employment and operational techniques through the use of high-fidelity simulation. The ScanEagle simulator was created jointly by Corsair and the aircraft’s manufacturer to accurately represent the experience of flying the real aircraft. Experience with this level of training and technology will keep UND students ahead of the curve as they look to launch their careers in the UAS industry.
The collaboration teams UND with a highly innovative corner of the private sector. Corsair Engineering is a top developer of advanced training systems. UND is utilizing the Web-based Interactive Multimedia Instruction (IMI) developed by Corsair Engineering. The IMI is part of Corsair’s industry leading Integrated UAS Learning Environment that also includes a Learning and Training Management System, high-realism simulators, hands-on practical exercises and actual flight training to dramatically enhance training effectiveness and retention.
Together the team forms a strong foundation to provide students with top tier training.
“At UND Aerospace, it has always been our mission to provide the highest level of aviation education. Utilizing the most advanced equipment has always yielded the best results, which is why the ScanEagle was an obvious choice as our training platform.” Dick Schultz, director of UND Aerospace Flight Operations.
“UAS is the next evolution of the aerospace industry. This partnership will allow our students to begin their careers at the forefront of this emerging industry.” said Mark Hastings, chief UAS pilot with UND Aerospace Flight Operations.
The first group of eight students completed academics and flight training on March 4, 2011. During the eight-week sessions students spend three hours per day, five days a week in the ScanEagle simulator progressing from basic flight operations to advanced sensor techniques and emergency procedures, and finally, to mission employment scenarios.
“We are eager to capitalize on feedback from our first semester of students and industry employers as our graduates move into their careers, we’re constantly looking for ways to make this course and program the best possible value for the students,” said Hastings.
