Drones for Mapping
BA 159 - 1.5 Units 8 Weeks
Learn how drones are used for terrain modeling, surveying, and mapping such as topography, site development, volume measurements, and contour elevation creation.
Watch this drone video footage taken by SAC BA faculty Eric Ostrowski, full-time drone pilot for Orange County Public Works. This is the Post 2020 Silverado UAV Project viewing the terrain after the Silverado Canyon fire to gather surveying data and detail 3D modeling.
In this class, you will also learn the intricacies of mapping with drones and how it correlates with GPS technology. Course topics include Part 107 regulations, field drone mapping protocols, and drone mapping data processing.
This class will discuss GIS applications, such as Pix4D and Esri ArcGIS. This is not a GIS software editing course. The class is focused on drone flying techniques for surveying and mapping.
GEOG 101 or GEOG 155 is recommended to learn about
geographic information system (GIS) and using Esri ArcGIS software.
Drones Provided in Class
Drones are provided in class. You do not need to buy a drone to take this class.
Course designed for beginning and experienced drone users.
Drone Mapping & Surveying Related
Career Opportunities
Careers using drones are growing fast and the demand for drone skills are increasing. Here are some of the careers and industries using drone mapping and surveying:
- GIS Mapping Administrator/Analyst
- Utilities
- Construction
- Agriculture Surveyor
- Survey Engineer
- Public Safety (terrain after a fire and disaster zones)
- Archaeologists
- Land Surveyor/Crew Chief
- Infrastructure (roads, bridges, details of surrounding land)
- Geospatial Analyst
- Scientist/Geologist
- Mining, Oil, and Gas (planning, evaluate pipelines, natural resources, conservation sites)
- Government Drone Pilot
- Drone Technician
- Aerial Survey Pilot
- Aerial Sensor Operator
- Aerial Mapping Technician/Manager
- Mapping Systems Engineer
- Natural Resources Specialist
- GIS Mapper/Infrared Fire System Operator
View a list of other types of careers and industries using drones.
SAC Faculty Lead for Drones
Contact for any questions about SAC drone courses and programs:
Dori Dumon, Drone Pilot
Assoc. Professor, Business Apps & Technology Dept.
Dumon_Dori@sac.edu
Contact Career Education Business Counselors
714-564-6254 or Live Chat on Counselors Web Page
- Get help planning class schedules
- Set education and career goals
- Complete graduation forms
- Learn about financial aid and support services
Information and brochure provided on this page are based on Catalog 2021-22. Previous catalogs are listed on theSAC College Catalogs web page.
