Iowa State Hosts FAA Drone Certification Training for Farmers

By Andi Anderson

Iowa State University will host a two-day drone workshop focused on preparing participants for Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification. The program supports agricultural professionals seeking legal approval to operate drones for commercial farm use.

The workshop is organized by the Digital Agriculture Innovation team at Iowa State University. Terraplex Ag is a partnering organization supporting instruction. Training sessions will be held in late May at the Alliant Energy Agriculture Innovation Lab in Ames. Daily sessions will run during standard daytime hours.

This training is designed for farmers. It also serves agricultural service providers. Individuals interested in commercial drone use may benefit. The goal is to help participants understand federal rules required for lawful drone operation on agricultural land.

Instruction will cover FAA regulations in detail. Part 107 rules will be explained clearly. Airspace classifications will be discussed. Operational limits will be reviewed step by step. Key exam concepts will be reinforced through guided instruction.

Participants will take part in structured review sessions. Group discussions will support learning. FAA style practice tests will build confidence. Dedicated question time will allow direct interaction with instructors.

Study materials are included with enrollment. Practice exams are also provided. Lunch will be supplied on both days of instruction. Participants will receive guidance on registering for the FAA exam at approved testing centers. Exam fees are separate from workshop costs.

Instruction will be led by Sam Welton from Terraplex Ag. He serves as director of compliance. His background includes military unmanned aircraft operations. He also has years of experience flying agricultural spray drones. Welton has guided many operators through FAA certification processes.

Registration is required due to limited seating availability. Early registration offers a reduced fee for timely sign up. Fees increase after the early deadline. Enrollment is limited to ensure quality instruction.

This workshop offers practical value for farmers exploring precision agriculture tools. Certification supports legal drone use. It improves safety awareness.

Well trained operators protect farm investments. Proper instruction builds confidence in modern technology adoption. This program supports responsible drone use across agricultural operations.

Photo Credit: pexels-flo-dnd