April 25, 2017

 a drone

 

MSUB’s Extended Campus to launch drone program for enthusiasts

Extended Campus at MSUB announces new Drone Program

Drones for Dummies takes place May 20 and Droneography held July 8

 

Contacts:

Oksana Sheehan, Extended Campus, 697-4241

University Relations, 657-2266

 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — Montana State University Billings Extended Campus is launching a new drone program this spring.

 

Director of the Extended Campus Kevin Nemeth says the first class, Drones for Dummies, will be for beginners, giving them a chance to get educated on the basics of drone techniques and related laws.

 

photo taken by a drone in the Beartooth Mountains
A second class, Droneography, will be a more advanced class and is slated for summer.

 

“People in our community are already using drones for recreational and business purposes and Extended Campus’ goal is to provide this enthusiastic community with the necessary tools to succeed,” Nemeth said.

 

Drones for Dummies will introduce individuals to the basics of safely operating drones. Through demonstration and hands-on practice, participants will leave with a better understanding and more confidence working with a drone.

 

Each class member will receive a drone equipped with a built-in camera. After successfully taking the class, participants will be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration as a certified hobbyist.

 

The instructor, Aaron Wilson, is the founder of Aaron’s Drones of Montana and is a seasoned drone operator, video editor, and is knowledgeable about the legalities of drone usage.

 

Drones for Dummies will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 20, 2017, in Alterowitz Gym on the University Campus. Cost is $189 and registration* is now open.

 

A second, more advanced class, Droneography, focusing on shooting photos and videos with drones is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., July 8. Cost is $149 and registration* is now open.

 

The class will begin in Liberal Arts room 121 on the University Campus and proceed to Riverfront Park for the flying portion.

 

Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

 

Theo operating a drone
“We’re excited to offer this program series to a wide variety of individuals interested in drones,” said Nemeth. “Drones are increasing in popularity and the number of them shipped annually is expected to reach 67.9 million by 2021. They will create new opportunities within our community and we want to take an active part in making that happened.”

 

Droneography is for those interested in learning how to use a drone to take photos and videos. This class will help individuals produce a better final product through basic techniques and editing.

 

The instructor, Theodore Hampton, is an independent filmmaker and photographer, involved in projects ranging from family and business photos, to commercial work, wedding films and design.

 

For more information about the suggested equipment needed for the class, click here.*

 

Nemeth shared they are hoping to add additional classes for more advanced and professional users in the future.

 

Those interested in learning more about these programs can visit MSUB Extended Campus* or email ECINFO@msubillings.edu.

 

 

Photos: Insert, top, Extended Campus at MSUB is offering a pair of drone classes that will teach participants how to take photos like the one shown here.

 

Insert, below. Theodore Hampton, is pictured operating a drone. The independent filmmaker and photographer is instructing Droneography, one of the new classes being launched by Extended Campus.

 

*As of 12/28/20 the Extended Campus website content is no longer available.