Overview
Eligible Program
careers
GIS Specialist
Drone / UAS Operator
Survey Technician
Utilities Geospatial Technician
Remote Sensing Specialist
Spatial Data Analyst
3D Modeling & Digital Twin Technician
AI-Enhanced Mapping Professional
Launch your career in one of the fastest-growing technology fields with Mitchell Technical College’s Drone Aviation & Geospatial Technologies Program. As industries increasingly rely on drones, GPS, geographic information systems (GIS), artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data analysis, skilled professionals who can collect, map, and interpret geospatial data are in high demand.
This hands-on one-year diploma program prepares you to operate professional drone systems, collect and analyze spatial data, and apply geospatial technology solutions across a variety of industries. You’ll gain experience with Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), autonomous flight technologies, GPS applications, GIS software, cloud-based mapping tools, computer-aided design (CAD), 3D modeling, digital twins, and AI-powered solutions for real-world geospatial challenges.
Through collaborative projects and practical training, students develop the skills to create professional aerial surveys, produce detailed maps, build 3D geospatial models, and transform data into actionable insights. You’ll also prepare to earn your FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, giving you the credentials needed to operate drones in commercial settings.
Graduates are prepared for careers as drone operators, UAS technicians, GIS specialists, mapping technicians, GPS technicians, survey technicians, and field technicians in industries including agriculture, utilities, energy, construction, mining, transportation, manufacturing, and land, water, and wildlife management.
Expand your career opportunities by stacking your Geospatial Technologies diploma with Power Line Construction & Maintenance, Utility Pipeline Technology, or Heating & Cooling Technology. By completing additional general education courses, you can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Utilities Technology.
With expert faculty, industry-driven training, and cutting-edge technology, Mitchell Tech’s Drone Aviation & Geospatial Technologies Program prepares you to fly, map, analyze, and develop intelligent solutions for the future of technology-driven industries.
Graduates with skills produced in the program would find employment in a variety of fields and positions; the occupational code does not fully represent all job titles where graduates would find employment so provides an incomplete picture of the job outlook. Mitchell Tech has consistently heard from its advisory boards across many industries that there are not enough technicians skilled in GPS/GIS and mapping technologies. Their companies are increasingly relying on these technologies for planning, development, and maintenance activities within their respective industries. We anticipate graduates of the Geospatial Technologies program to be employed in a variety of industries: mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction; utilities and communication; construction; manufacturing; transportation; and forestry and water resources.
Curriculum
Award: Diploma
First Semester
Second Semester
Requirements
Computer Requirements
This program requires a laptop computer so that you can effectively integrate computing skills with your technical education. Many resources that instructors assign are online or require specialty software. To address these needs, Mitchell Tech requires that students entering this program purchase their laptops from Mitchell Tech. The cost for a Mitchell Tech laptop averages about $1,150 for this program. Please be aware that our machines come fully loaded with the software required for this program.
Whether it’s Microsoft Office, or a specialty software for a technical program, your needs will be met by your Mitchell Tech laptop. And our laptops are serviced for free by our Technology office. You will not be able to bring a laptop from home into a Mitchell Tech laptop program as we cannot provide support services for every make and model of laptop. Please consider this carefully before making any laptop purchase and check with the Admissions office for more details.
Outcomes
At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Manage geospatial data using modern file systems, databases, and cloud-based platforms
- Apply GIS analysis and spatial problem-solving to address real-world challenges
- Collect, process, analyze, and visualize geospatial data, including the creation of 3D models and digital twins
- Develop or apply custom AI solutions to improve geospatial workflows and decision-making
- Plan and conduct professional drone operations while obtaining the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate
Annual Program Review
Check out the 2025-26 Annual Program Review for information on how faculty ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program.
Cost
Other Required Costs
Laptop/Software $2,175
Books / Tools (estimated) $301
Scholarships
Mitchell Tech offers a variety of scholarships to qualified applicants. The application period runs from October 1 through November 1 for current students and January 1 through March 31 for incoming students.
Other Related Programs
If you’re interested in Drone Aviation & Geospatial Technologies, you might also be interested in these other engineering, manufacturing, and construction programs at Mitchell Tech.
Architectural Design & Building Construction
Automation Controls / SCADA
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Heating & Cooling Technology
Welding Engineering Technology
