Cornwall College Old Boys Association, Mid-Atlantic chapter, and the Sandals Foundation, have launched a multi-school Drone Pilot Training programme in Montego Bay, St James. The program will build targeted technical skills and job readiness in global drone technology for St. James youth.

The drone program, which will be conducted under the guidance of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) and the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF), will train students from seven St. James high schools, providing them with a competitive advantage in the evolving landscape of Drone Technology. The participating schools are Cornwall College (where the program will be based), Herbert Morrison Technical High, Maldon High, Montego Bay High, Mt. Alvernia High, Spot Valley High and St. James High School.

Staff from the unmanned aerial vehicle unit (UAV) of the JCF, JFB and JDF will train the selected students in the internationally recognized US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 curriculum, with modifications from the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) guidelines.  The selected students, many of whom are members of the Police Youth Club or Cadet Corps at their respective schools, will at the end of the program, receive Certificates of Completion as UAV Drone Pilots.

Karen Zacca, Director of Operations at Sandals Foundation said, “This unique program not only provides an opportunity for young people to fast-track their access to this dynamic field of study, but also develops within them transferable life skills needed to excel in any area they choose.” 

Michael Williams, President, CCOBAMA said, “This public-private partnership represents our commitment to leveraging the collective expertise and resources of the various entities for the advancement of our youth. By acquiring the skills and gaining practical experience in drone pilot flight hours and mission planning, students will gain an advantage toward innovative career paths.”