Nov. 3, 2025
NSU launches enhanced Remote Pilot Certification Prep Course in Winnfield
NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University will offer an updated in-person Remote Pilot Certification Preparatory Course, delivered by the university’s ARGO (Advanced Remote & Geospatial Operations) team. This intensive course is designed to prepare participants to successfully pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 Remote Pilot Aeronautical Knowledge Test and engage safely and productively in commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations.
The two-day course will take place Nov. 13-14 at the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Range in Winnfield and is open to professionals, entrepreneurs, public-safety personnel, educators and anyone interested in leveraging drones commercially or for mission-critical operations. Prior flight experience is not required — participants only need to be at least 16 years old and able to read, speak, write and understand English (per FAA requirements). The course fee is $250 and covers instruction only. The FAA exam is separate.
Participants will gain:
- A comprehensive instructor-led review of regulatory frameworks, airspace classifications, weather and meteorology essentials, aeronautical decision-making (ADM), risk management, and chart interpretation.
 - Hands-on guidance from ARGO Lab faculty and practitioners with real-world UAS experience.
 - A focused preparation strategy tailored to maximize your chances of success on the FAA Part 107 exam.
 
With the global UAS market growing rapidly and commercial drone operations expanding across sectors such as agriculture, forestry, inspection, construction, emergency response, historic preservation and mapping, the demand for qualified remote pilots continues to rise. NSU’s ARGO Lab is uniquely positioned to meet this need, offering state-of-the-art training grounded in applied practice, supported by a robust fleet of drones and industry-aligned curriculum.
The ARGO Lab at NSU fosters innovation in drone and geospatial technologies, integrating aerial data capture, 3D modeling, photogrammetry and sensor-based surveys into real-world projects. The lab equips students and professionals alike with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in today’s precision-data environment.
To register or to view course details visit http://bit.ly/3UNM5iw. For more information on the ARGO Lab visit https://www.nsula.edu/argo/, email argolab@nsula.edu or call (318) 357-6174.