New Drone Opportunity Helps ORU Students Take Flight

by Deborah Laker

For the first time in its history, Oral Roberts University is now providing students access to drone training and certification. Andrew Squance, a project coordinator in the Communication and Media Department, spearheaded the initiative after recognizing the vast scope of the drone market.

Before moving to Tulsa, Squance oversaw the media department at Catch the Fire church in London, England. During his time there he gained an appreciation for flying drones and became a licensed pilot. Squance moved to America, after his wife, Ashley, decided to complete her Business Administration degree at ORU. He purchased his first drone and began freelancing video projects.

“Everyone is using drones,” Squance said. “It's a multi-billion-dollar industry now and it's still growing. Drones are being used for news reporting, cinematography, and surveying, as well as rescue missions."

Being able to pilot a drone is an impressive skill that will make students stand out to future employers.

ORU has a relationship with an online training program, to offer the opportunity. Since the rules and regulations for flying drones change constantly, this program gives students access to up-to-date lessons.

No prior experience or knowledge of unmanned aerial vehicles is necessary to participate. Although the opportunity is currently being offered to students in the Cinema, Television, and Digital Media and Media Mastery Institute programs, students from other disciplines with an interest in becoming licensed drone pilots are encouraged to participate.

Through video lessons, students will learn how to safely fly a drone by studying wind speeds, weather conditions, radio signals, and aeronautical maps. The University currently owns three drones for student use.

“The aim of the training is to fly safe, protect the drones, and stay within FAA regulations," Squance emphasized.

After completing the independent study, students will need to pass the Federal Aviation Administration exam to become commercially licensed drone pilots. Christiansen Aviation, a testing center at Jenks Airport, administers the exam.

“There are more rules for drones coming,” Squance said. “Everyone at some point is going to have to get some sort of license, so if you get trained now, you're ahead of the curve. You're going to be on the crest of the wave as it goes, because it's a booming industry."

Squance is welcoming requests for further information via email at asquance@oru.edu.