Program at a glance
Credential
Micro-credential
Program length
40 hours / 5 days
Location
Kamloops, B.C.
Tuition
$2,750
Deploying drones in crisis scenarios Fly to the front lines
The emergency response training program equips students to safely deploy drones and apply geospatial tools in real-world emergency scenarios. Through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on field operations, participants simulate conditions found in wildfire response, search and rescue, and flood assessments. Students learn flight safety, aerial data capture and how to convert drone-collected information into actionable insights for first responders and emergency managers.
Learn more about the program
What you will learn Learn from seasoned drone professionals
Students will gain hands-on experience in emergency drone operations, including flight safety, mission planning, live video streaming and rapid mapping using thermal and visual sensors. Training covers Transport Canada regulations and airspace coordination, with practical field exercises simulating wildfire monitoring, search and rescue missions, flood assessments and postdisaster damage reporting. Each skill is applied in real-world scenarios to produce actionable insights for emergency managers and first responders.
Software and tools used
- QGIS (GIS mapping and data analysis)
- ArcGIS online / Field maps (if available)
- DJI Pilot / FlightHub / Pix4D
- Thermal imaging (if available)
- Mobile mapping and coordination apps (Avenza)
Career opportunities
This training prepares students to support emergency and public safety agencies, NGOs and private firms in roles such as:
- Wildfire aerial support technician
- Search and rescue drone operator
- Emergency GIS technician
- Public safety RPAS
- Environmental hazard response assistant
- Damage assessment field operator
Program requirements
Applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be comfortable using computers and mobile apps
- Be physically able to participate in outdoor field operations
- Have basic navigation and mapping skills
- Commit to following safety and regulatory protocol
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
