CACC takes to the Skies

Story and photos by 1st Lt. (CA) Jennifer Brofer
California Cadet Corps

June 25, 2024

CAMP SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – The California Cadet Corps (CACC) was buzzing with a new kind of activity at this year’s recent summer encampment June 19-29. The CACC launched its first-ever Drone Training Unit, offering cadets a chance to not only learn about unmanned aerial systems (UAS) but also receive the information and experience required for the coveted Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. 

Leading the charge was retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Fred Dohnke, chief of the Drone Training Unit and current Commandant of Porterville Military Academy. "Drones are a great way to dip your toes into the world of aviation,” said Dohnke. "We're introducing them to the FAA regulations for Part 107. The goal is for them to take the test and become certified commercial drone pilots.”

This pioneering program was a "beta test,” according to Dohnke, with a select group of seven Cadets who participated this year. Partnering with STARBASE Los Alamitos – a Department of Defense youth program at Joint Forces Training Base Los Alamitos led by California State Guard Chief Warrant Officer 2 Stacey Hendrickson – the CACC secured expert instruction and resources for the Cadets.

California boasts four STARBASE programs, two of which are run by the California Military Department's Task Force Torch. These programs aim to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in California’s youth. 

“I wish I had something like this when I was their age getting involved in the hobby,” said Garrett Walton, an instructor from STARBASE Los Alamitos who attended summer encampment to assist the CACC instructors in teaching the basics of drone piloting. “I’m really grateful to be able to come back and show them things I’ve already learned and hopefully prepare them for going and doing other big things like this. I’d like to see more of that and help out as much as we can.”

Walton emphasized the program's focus on both practical skills and safety. "We're starting with beginner-friendly drones," explained Walton. “As the week progresses, we'll move on to more advanced models." 

Cadet Capt. Brian Mateo, a member of the Drone Training Unit, was already familiar with drones, having flown them previously in an effort to help launch a drone program at his school. "I joined to learn more and get my Part 107 certification," said Mateo, "which is necessary for many commercial drone uses."

Mateo found the challenge of maneuvering a drone particularly exciting. "I'm riled up to pass the test and expand what I can do with a drone," said Mateo, who graduated from Rosamond High School. His future plans lean towards aviation, and drones are a natural first step.

The new Drone Training Unit aligns seamlessly with California’s education plan, which emphasizes career technical education (CTE) and hands-on, competency-based learning to prepare students for future careers in high-demand fields.

By offering Cadets the opportunity to gain FAA certification and practical drone piloting skills, the program not only advances CACC’s mission of fostering real-world skills but also addresses the state’s goals of technological literacy and STEM engagement. Programs like this encourage Cadets to pursue emerging careers in technology and aviation, ensuring that they gain a competitive edge for college and career readiness.

With the California Cadet Corps taking flight with its Drone Training Unit, these young minds are well on their way to soaring high in the world of aviation.