Aviation Technology

Mission: Engaging students in experiences to inspire future aviators!

There is more to aviation than flying. Aviation technology provides students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of the history and science of aerospace. The goal is to expose students to a variety of career pathways including pilot, aerospace engineer, drone pilot, or mechanic. As technology continues to emerge, there is a growing need in the field of aviation and knowledge of drone technology.

Curricular and business experience introduces aviation students to physics, the relationship of weight and balance, principles of navigation and flight control, ground and airport operations and services, and federal aviation administration regulations.

Contact your school counselor or career advisor to learn more about the program, Drone Club, and cooperative work experiences to learn how to register!

Aviation Technology Program Information

About the Teacher

**Email:** gravdahl@west-fargo.k12.nd.us

**Phone:** 701-356-2160

Dave Gravdahl

Dave Gravdahl is an instructor of Aviation for the CCCTEC, a PLTW instructor at Sheyenne High School and an Applied Synthetics lecturer at the University of North Dakota. Dave had an industrial background before he began teaching having worked with zirconium based composites in fiber optics, FR composites for utility products, pre-stressed concrete manufacture and inspection, metal fab manufacturing primarily for Arctic Cat and also grew up helping with the family sawmill. Dave is a certified Manufacturing and Industrial Technologist and holds a bachelor degree in Industrial Technology (BSIT) and a Master degree in Production based Manufacturing (MSIT).

Courses

Course	Credit	Grade Level	Prerequisites	Fee/Special Requirement
Aviation Technology I (Session 1)	1.0	10-12	null	Students will be responsible for transportation. Schools will provide bussing for field trips.
Aviation Technology II	1.0	10-12	Aviation Technology I (Sessions 1 & 2)	Students will be responsible for transportation. Schools will provide bussing for field trips.
Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones)	.5	11-12	null	null
Cooperative Work Experience	0.5	11-12	Aviation I	Students must have instructor approval and complete cooperative work experience guidelines.

Course Descriptions:

Aviation Technology I
Exposes students to careers in the field of aviation, such as air traffic control, flight dispatching and airport management, etc. The course covers fundamentals of flight, flight operations, aviation weather, performance and navigation. Units of instruction include; flight history, safety, space, airport layout, aeronautical charts, radar, radio procedures, aerodynamics, weather patterns and hazards. Emphasis on applied academics in math and science are integrated, along with decision-making principles as it applies to flight-related factors. Lessons are enhanced by guest speakers and field trips to local airports and aviation sites.

Aviation Technology II
This course is a continuation of concepts learned in Aviation I. This course will cover advanced flight topics from area Aviation experts. Students will be exposed to new concepts in UAS and drone technology as well as expanding topics covered in Aviation I to an advanced level. Students will be preparing to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) private pilot written exam. Successful completion of Aviation I is a prerequisite.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) - Drones
The Unmanned Aerial Systems course will teach learners a basic understanding of recreational and commercial unmanned aircraft operations. They will identify the responsibility and authority of the remote PIC, discuss the rules of UAS operation, understand the significance of airspace classes, special-use airspace, understand weather and how it affects UAV flights, general loading, performance data, and airport operations. Learners will be prepared to take the FAA part 107 exam. Dual credit options in UAS 111 and UAS 112 are available through NDSCS. Fees may apply.

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