First Responder Drones & Sensor Course

(Online)

Course Overview

This course is designed for first responders (law enforcement, fire departments, search and rescue teams, emergency medical services, and disaster response agencies) who want to leverage drones for critical missions. The course focuses on operational techniques, drone and sensor use, safety, and real-world applications for first responders. Participants will gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge to enhance emergency response operations using drone technology.

Course Includes

  1. Instructional Modules:

    • Face-to-Face: 10 hours of instruction + 4 hours of hands-on training over 2 days.

    • Online: 7 weeks, 2 hours per session (Wednesdays & Fridays).

  2. Hands-on Training (Face-to-Face): Drone flight practice tailored to emergency response scenarios.

  3. Interactive Learning: Practical sensor use for situational awareness, thermal imaging, and mapping.

  4. Operational Best Practices: Mission planning, risk assessment, and FAA compliance.

Course Formats

  • Face-to-Face (2-Day Intensive):

    • Duration: 2 Days (Wednesday & Thursday)

    • Time: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM with breaks

    • Location: Elkader, Iowa

    • Frequency: Twice a year

  • Online (7 Weeks):

    • Duration: 7 Weeks (Wednesdays & Fridays)

    • Time: 2 Hours per session (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM CST)

    • Format: Live, instructor-led online classes

Course Description

The First Responder Drones & Sensor Course equips first responders with essential skills for deploying drone technology during emergency operations. Emphasis is placed on thermal imaging, real-time mapping, search and rescue protocols, and managing operations safely within FAA regulations. Whether attending face-to-face or online, participants will leave with the confidence to integrate drones effectively into real-world emergency situations.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will:

  1. Understand drone applications in emergency response, including disaster assessment, fire management, and search and rescue operations.

  2. Learn to utilize drone sensors, such as thermal imaging and high-resolution cameras, for situational awareness.

  3. Develop mission planning skills, including risk assessment and compliance with FAA regulations.

  4. Gain hands-on experience in drone flight tailored to emergency response scenarios (Face-to-Face).

  5. Learn to analyze aerial data for efficient decision-making during emergencies.

Required Equipment

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required prior to course start)

  • Drone with a mounted camera (4K resolution preferred)

  • Thermal imaging sensor (e.g., DJI Zenmuse XT or equivalent)

  • Laptop with mission planning software installed (e.g., DJI Pilot, Pix4D, or similar)

Recommended Equipment

  • Extra batteries and charging hubs for extended flights

  • Tablet or smartphone for drone control (compatible with drone software)

  • Landing pads for drone take-off/landing

  • Safety glasses

  • Carrying case for drone and equipment

  • High-visibility safety vest and drone pilot identification

Course Dates

Face-to-Face Courses in Elkader, Iowa:

  1. Spring Session: May 14-15, 2025 (Wednesday & Thursday)

  2. Fall Session: September 17-18, 2025 (Wednesday & Thursday)

Online Courses (7 Weeks):

  1. Spring Session: March 5 – April 18, 2025 (Wednesdays & Fridays, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM CST)

  2. Fall Session: August 6 – September 19, 2025 (Wednesdays & Fridays, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM CST)