Become a Commercial Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Pilot

The Commercial Remote Pilot Certificate prepares learners to pass the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot written exam, a mandatory credential every commercial drone pilot needs. Course two is for professionals who’ve cleared that bar, or plan to, and want to put their basic knowledge to work, applying Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS) technology to real industry problems and building the operational skills clients and employers expect. This program is TECP eligible, meaning a grant may cover the full cost of tuition.

Check TECP Eligibility Register Today

TECP State Grant Funding

The Technology Employment in Colorado Partnership (TECP), a workforce initiative of the City and County of Denver, may help cover the cost of this program for eligible Colorado residents pursuing a career in remote pilot (drone) operations.

Getting Started

1. Review eligibility criteria to determine if you might qualify.

2. Create a Connecting Colorado Account and complete the initial assessment form.

3. Once you have created your Connecting Colorado account, email [email protected] and share that you are interested in pursuing drone certification training. A resume and information on previous experience is appreciated to help determine eligibility. Afterwards, you will be connected with a case manager who will support you moving forward.

3. Eligible students can secure grant funding and enroll in Commercial Remote Pilot Certificate courses with no out-of-pocket cost.

Want to apply or have questions? Contact [email protected].

Who Qualifies / Eligibility

  • Age 17 or older
  • Colorado resident, any county
  • Unemployed, underemployed, or looking to transition to a tech career
  • All backgrounds welcome, no prior IT experience required
Rowdy throwing fall leaves.

I enjoyed being part of the UAS program and appreciated the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable and supportive instructors. The hands-on flight experience demo was one of the most valuable aspects of the course and provided a good introduction to drone operations. I’m thankful for the experience and for everything Casey and the department has put into building this program.

Amanda C.

Commercial Drone Pilot student

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet Your Instructor

Casey Phinney

Casey Phinney

Casey Phinney is an Assistant Professor of Aviation and Aerospace Sciences at MSU Denver, specializing in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and real-world drone operations. With a background as a helicopter pilot and extensive experience in UAS technology, he brings a powerful combination of traditional aviation expertise and cutting-edge drone knowledge to every course he teaches. 

Casey has worked across a wide range of drone applications, giving him a deep understanding of how UAS are used in today’s fast-growing industries. He is passionate about helping students and professionals turn drone skills into real opportunities, building confidence, earning credentials, and standing out in a competitive field. His courses are designed to go beyond theory, equipping learners with the practical knowledge and industry insight needed to succeed as professional drone pilots. 

 

Headshot of Rowdy

Apply for TECP Grant

Register Self-Pay

Request Additional Information

Questions?

Please contact Brandy Schooler at 303-615-1234 or [email protected].

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Contact Us

Email us

Phone: 303-615-1234

Office Location:
Jordan Student Success Building
3rd Floor – #330
Auraria Campus

Mailing Address:
MSU Denver
Innovative and Lifelong Learning
P.O. Box 173362
Campus Box 6
Denver, CO 80217-3362