Program at a glance
Credential
Micro-credential
Program length
56 hours
Location
Kamloops, B.C.
Tuition
$3,000
Advance your skills Expand your opportunities
This advanced training program is designed for individuals who have completed basic drone certification or gained field experience and are ready to take their skills to the next level. Whether you're aiming to work in wildfire response, forestry, inspections or utilities, this course prepares you for professional drone operations in complex environments.
You'll learn to navigate controlled airspace and operate safely near people and infrastructure — unlocking new career paths and operational capabilities. The curriculum meets all of Transport Canada requirements for advanced drone certification, giving you the credentials to fly with confidence and authority.
Learn more about the program
What you will learn Learn from seasoned drone professionals
This program delivers in-depth instruction on advanced aviation regulations (CARs – Part IX), airspace classifications and the authorization process. Students will master advanced flight planning, risk assessment, emergency procedures and contingency planning, while also gaining essential knowledge in navigation, meteorology and crew resource management.
The course combines classroom learning with immersive field training, simulating real-world scenarios such as operations near people, structures and within controlled airspace. To build a strong foundation, students begin with four weeks of pre-reading and online ground school. Training is led by experienced drone professionals. The first attempt at both the Transport Canada Advanced RPAS exam and flight review is included in the program.
Career opportunities
Advanced certification enables pilots to work in high-demand sectors such as:
- Infrastructure inspection (bridges, towers, utilities)
- Public safety and emergency response
- Industrial and commercial surveying
- Construction monitoring
- Large-scale agriculture and forestry
- Cinematography and media production
Career roles include advanced RPAS pilot, operations supervisor, inspection specialist, aerial surveyor, emergency response operator and drone program manager.
Advanced certified drone operator limits
Upon certification, graduates are authorized to:
- Operate in controlled airspace (with NAV CANADA authorization)
- Fly near or over people
- Conduct operations beyond basic license limitations
- Perform advanced site surveys and risk assessments
- Operate at altitudes up to 120 m Above Ground Level (AGL) with expanded operational flexibility
Program requirements
Applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Demonstrate physical capability and visual acuity for safe operation
- Commit to active participation in both classroom and field training
Contact us
TRU Community Education and Workforce Development (CEWD) Kamloops offers a wide range of employment-ready courses and certifications designed to help students upgrade their skills, start a new career or advance in their current field.
Phone: 250-828-5106
Email: csinfo@tru.ca
Mailing address
TT158-805 TRU Way, Kamloops, BC V2C 0C9
