UFI Programs:
Your pathway into the UxS industry
UFI funds certifications, equipment, and competition participation through corporate partnerships so students can focus on building skills rather than covering costs.
FAA Part 107 Certification Track
Tentative Launching: September 2026
Duration: 8 weeks
Format: Hybrid – online study with in-person flight labs
Cost to Students: $0 (industry-sponsored)
What You’ll Learn:
FAA airspace regulations and classification
Weather analysis and flight safety protocols
Pre-flight inspections and emergency procedures
Hands-on flight training (4 in-person lab sessions)
What You’ll Earn:
FAA Remote Pilot Certificate for UAS operators
Flight portfolio documenting your training missions (interview-ready)
Who Can Apply:
Currently enrolled college students (any major)
Recent graduates or career-changers entering the UxS field
No prior drone experience required
Mission-Ready UxS Challenge
Tentative Launching: November 2026 (following Part 107 track)
Duration: 6 weeks of preparation + 1 competition day
Format: Team-based (3-4 students per team)
Eligibility: Part 107 certification required (UFI track qualifies)
Year 1 Challenge: Search & Rescue Simulation:
Teams will use drones and thermal imaging to locate a missing person
across a 50-acre area. Teams are judged on speed, location accuracy,
flight safety compliance, and mission reporting.
What You’ll Demonstrate:
Flight path optimization under time pressure
Thermal image analysis and interpretation
Coordinate mapping and GPS reporting
Team communication and decision-making
Prizes:
1st Place: Internship interviews at 2-3 partner companies + $2,500 equipment grant
2nd Place: Internship interviews at 1-2 partner companies + $1,000 equipment grant
3rd Place: Internship interview at 1 partner company + $500 equipment grant
All participants: Certificate of completion + competition portfolio + career mentorship access
What happens after the competition?
Internship Placement
Top-performing teams are introduced to UFI partner companies for
internship consideration. Companies receive competition results and
student portfolios in advance of any interview.
Career Mentorship
All participants receive résumé review, interview preparation guidance, and access to the UFI job board throughout the program year.
Alumni Network
Program graduates are added to the UFI alumni network for ongoing job referrals and industry connections.
Program FAQs
Do I need to be an engineering or
aviation-related major?
No. UxS roles include operations, data analysis, mission planning, and logistics. All majors are eligible.
What if I do not pass the Part 107 exam?
UFI covers one retake. You may still participate in the competition track regardless of exam outcome.
What equipment do I need to bring?
None. UFI provides all drones, sensors, and training equipment.
My university is not yet listed as a partner.
Can I still apply?
Contact us. We are adding university partnerships through early 2026.
Partner Universities
Fall 2026 university partnerships are being finalized. Confirmed locations will be posted here as agreements are completed.
To discuss bringing UFI programs to your campus, Contact Us