Unmanned Team

On the day the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International is hosting a big event in Washington, Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH) announced a teaming arrangement from his home district that is centered on unmanned aerial systems.

Turner, the chairman of the House Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee, issued the following statement:

“Today the Dayton community has taken another step towards being a leader in the field of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This agreement signed by Sinclair College and UAI will provide students with the tools to play an increased role in this expanding field. Already, UAS is a $100 billion industry. Currently, there is language passed by the House in the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, which would place Dayton and Wilmington in a strong position to be future testing sites for UAS. An educated workforce with a focus on this field is a vital component which would help UAS become a significant job creator for our region.

"The agreement focuses on providing innovative training in the emerging industry of unmanned aerial systems. These classes will serve as the foundation for an emerging UAS program to be hosted by Sinclair College. The new class offerings will focus on the information technology side of unmanned aerial systems, including data analysis and full motion video where there is an enormous need for trained technicians."

According to its website, the UAI is a non-profit institute created to advance the UAS industry in North Dakota and the surrounding region.