NCDOT Hosts First Drone Workshop for Government and Commercial Operators

The N.C. Department of Transportation wants to show that drones can do much more than just take nice pictures and race each other.

A capacity crowd was on hand last week as NCDOT’s Division of Aviation UAS Program Office hosted a free workshop for government and commercial drone operators on the campus of UNC Charlotte.

Over 200 attendees learned about drone flight operations, data management, and applications for government and commercial users.  Presenters also provided updates on the latest changes in federal and state drone regulations, and gave live flight demonstrations.

“Drone technology is quickly advancing, and so are the possibilities for a business or government organization interested in using one,” Said Basil Yap, UAS Program Manager for NCDOT.  “The folks in attendance can expect to come away with a realistic understanding of the possible applications for drone technology, and what it takes to effectively implement drones into their operations.”

NCDOT hopes to use these free workshops to show how safe and beneficial this emerging technology can be.

This was the first of eight drone workshops NCDOT is hosting across the state.  The next will be in Asheville on August 31.