The CIDER Summer Drone Pilot Training Program
The UCSC CIDER offers a summer drone pilot training program for graduate and undergraduate students, with a focus on drone applications in agricultural and climate research. The program includes hands-on, project-based training, where participants will learn the fundamentals of drone piloting along with an introduction to data processing and analysis using QGIS and Drone Deploy.
Before the start of the program, students are required to obtain the FAA Part 107 remote pilot license by passing a knowledge test at an FAA testing center. This test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering various topics including regulations, airspace, weather, and aviation performance. To prepare for the exam, participants will have access to CIDER’s exam prep course on Canvas, which includes short videos, quizzes, study notes, and a practice exam covering all the exam concepts.
The Drone Pilot Training Program encompasses four main components:
Before the program:
- Study for and successfully complete the FAA Part 107 commercial remote pilot license exam.
During the in-person training:
- Engage in practical flight training and practice.
- Learn to use software such as Drone Deploy and QGIS for mission planning and data analysis.
- Work on a drone project individually or in a small group.
Participants will receive a $1,200 award. They are provided with instruction, course materials, access to drones for flight practice, and skilled instructors. Costs for the FAA Part 107 remote pilot license exam ($175) will also be covered. The in-person training will take place at the UC Santa Cruz CASFS Farm.
Eligibility
All UCSC graduate and undergraduate students are eligible to apply, regardless of citizenship status or major. Students from historically underrepresented groups in STEM fields are particularly encouraged to apply. Application materials include an online application and a cover letter.
Due to the rigorous and selective nature of the program, applicants must be able to commit to completing all components of the program. Participants are expected to be present during the two-week training and to sign up and complete the FAA Part 107 remote pilot license exam before the start of the program.
Program Schedule
The 2025 in-person training is scheduled from Monday, August 25th to Thursday, September 4th. There will be no program activities during the weekend and on Labor Day. Each in-person training day includes 8 hours of instruction from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Participants will be able to join the Canvas course once the student selections are finalized.
Application Process
The application for the 2025 cohort will be available until July 15th.
If you have questions about the program or application process, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information: cider@ucsc.edu
How do I apply?
The application for the CIDER Summer Drone Pilot Training program consists of online questions and a cover letter that you’ll prepare offline before beginning the application. Once you begin the online application, you will not be able to save it and return to it later, so please have your cover letter complete and ready to upload when you begin the application.
1: Write a cover letter.
Please ensure that your letter is no longer than one page (max 250 words) and addresses the following points:
- Motivation: Describe your motivation to participate in this drone education program.
- Future Aspirations: Share your envisioned career path following graduation. If drones play a part in your future plans, please elaborate on how acquiring drone skills will be advantageous to your career.
- Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: Provide two instances where you have contemplated or directly addressed issues pertaining to diversity, equity, or inclusion, either within your peer group or in other professional or academic settings.
We value each aspect of these instructions as they give us a comprehensive understanding of your experiences and aspirations.
2: Complete the online application and upload your cover letter when prompted.
Applications will be due on or before July 15th. If you have any questions, please reach out to our staff at cider@ucsc.edu.