Survey Technician, Justin Freida is now a certified Remote Pilot after recently passing the FAA Part 107 licensing exam. Justin completed a 4-week training course in preparation for his license. The course, provided by UAV Imaging Services out of Mendon, entailed classes ranging from 3-4 hours a week and additional hours of hands-on flying.
His interest in drones and flying is a personal one. “I have always been interested in flying. My father-in-law is a retired Delta Captain and hearing stories about his time in the sky has always been a real treat,” expressed Freida.
Learning the FAA’s language, safety, weather and practical training made up the bulk of his studies. “What’s interesting is anyone can take the FAA Part 107—with or without any experience or education about drones. There is so much regarding regulations and different types of air space, it can make your head spin! I am glad I invested my time in learning more than just the basics in preparation.” Now a certified remote pilot Justin is able to fly unmanned aircraft (drones) commercially for your projects.
What this means for BME and our clients? Justin explains the sky really is the limit! “There is so much potential in using drones within this industry. Initially I see this starting within our survey department: topographic mapping, boundary surveys; ALTA/NSPS land title surveys; environmental surveys, site modeling, volumetric calculations…the list goes on. But eventually our engineering department, construction and environmental services departments will benefit from this technology, and more importantly, so will our client base.”
For information about FAA Part 107 and more visit: https://www.faa.gov
