By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University’s Digital Ag Innovation Lab, in partnership with Terraplex Ag, will host a specialized training workshop designed to help participants prepare for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification exam. The two-day program will take place from November 30 to December 1, 2026, and aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills needed for commercial drone operations.
The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the Alliant Energy Agriculture Innovation Lab, located at 3800 University Boulevard. It is intended for agricultural professionals, drone operators, and individuals interested in using unmanned aerial systems for commercial purposes. As drone technology continues to play a larger role in agriculture, certification has become increasingly important for those seeking to use drones professionally.
Participants will receive detailed instruction on FAA regulations and operating requirements. Key topics include Part 107 rules and limitations, airspace classifications, operational requirements, and other essential concepts covered on the certification exam. The training is designed to help attendees understand both the regulatory and practical aspects of drone operations.
In addition to classroom instruction, the course will feature hands-on review sessions, group discussions, FAA-style practice examinations, and a question-and-answer session. These activities are intended to reinforce learning and help participants gain confidence before taking the official exam.
Study materials are included with registration and will provide participants with valuable resources for exam preparation. Lunch will also be provided on both workshop days. Instructors will guide attendees through the process of registering for the FAA Part 107 examination at an FAA-designated testing center. However, the FAA examination fee is not included in the workshop registration cost.
The workshop will be led by Sam Welton, Director of Compliance at Terraplex Ag. Welton brings extensive industry experience to the program, including six years of military service operating the U.S. Army’s RQ-7B Shadow unmanned aircraft system. He also has five years of experience operating agricultural spray drones and assisting drone operators with FAA certifications and licensing requirements.
Registration is currently available for interested participants. Early registration is priced at $449 through November 13, after which the fee will increase to $500. Registration closes on November 20. Enrollment is limited, with a minimum of 10 participants required and a maximum capacity of 30 attendees.
The workshop represents an excellent opportunity for agricultural professionals and drone operators to gain specialized training, improve their understanding of FAA regulations, and prepare for certification. As drones become increasingly valuable tools for crop monitoring, field management, and precision agriculture, programs such as this help ensure operators have the knowledge and credentials needed to use the technology safely and effectively.
Event Details:
Event: FAA Part 107 Test Preparation Workshop
Dates: November 30 to December 1, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily
Location: Alliant Energy Agriculture Innovation Lab, 3800 University Blvd.
Instructor: Sam Welton, Director of Compliance at Terraplex Ag
Early Registration: $449 through November 13
Regular Registration: $500 after November 13
Registration Deadline: November 20
Capacity: 10 to 30 participants
Contact: Doug Houser, Digital Agriculture Extension Specialist at Iowa State University.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education