Atlantic Cape Awarded Grant by National Science Foundation for Proposed Drone Data Technicians Associate Degree Program

MAYS LANDING — Atlantic Cape Community College is excited to announce that it was awarded a $551,818 grant for its proposed Preparing Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Data Technicians project by the National Science Foundation.

The project, "Preparing Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Data Technicians," addresses the evolving technology landscape in the field of small unmanned aircraft systems. This includes advancements in miniaturized sensors, development specialized data processing software and the use of machine learning for analysis. The industry is poised to see another round of significant growth, driven by the impending additions to regulatory frameworks that will increase the opportunities for sUAS operations.

“Atlantic Cape recognizes the industry-driven demand to expand its existing sUAS technician curricula. The goal is to develop an Associate in Applied Science Degree option and a series of short-term stackable certificate programs focused on equipping students with the skills to collect, process and securely manage sUAS data,” said Dr. Josette Katz, senior vice president, Academic Affairs.

The project emphasizes instrument training for advanced sensors, including light detection ranging (lidar), laser methane detector, ground penetrating radar, real-time kinetic global positioning systems, infrared, and hyperspectral imagers (HSI).

“By integrating these technologies into the curriculum, Atlantic Cape aims to prepare students for the demands of the industry and provide them with practical skills in data collection, management, and analysis using sUAS,” said Dr. Katz.

The anticipated outcomes of the project include an increased number of faculty trained to deliver new curricula, a diverse student population benefiting from the programs, and measurable results in terms of enrollment, retention, and graduation/credentials earned. By aligning the education provided with industry needs, the project strives to meet the workforce demand for skilled sUAS data technicians and contribute to the growth and advancement of the field.

James Taggart, professor, Computer Information Systems, will serve as the program’s principal investigator (PI). Assistant Professors Kenneth Cabarle and Anthony Esposito will serve as co-principal investigators with Professor Judith Otterburn-Martinez rounding out the program’s faculty team. This new associate degree option is tentatively scheduled to be launched in time for the Fall 2025 Semester.

Visit atlanticcape.edu/drones for more information.

About Atlantic Cape Community College

Atlantic Cape Community College is a Middle States accredited, 2022 Achieving the Dream Leader College and Hispanic Serving Institution proudly serving the residents of Atlantic and Cape May counties. As a comprehensive, two-year community college, Atlantic Cape offers 47 undergraduate degree programs, and 33 certificate and professional series programs at its Mays Landing, Atlantic City and Cape May campuses. Atlantic Cape is home to the renowned Academy of Culinary Arts, rated the top culinary school in New Jersey, and for more than 50 years, our highly-acclaimed Nursing program. Atlantic Cape also partners with more than 30 colleges and four-year universities to offer students the opportunity to seamlessly earn a bachelor’s degree upon graduation.