This is an online asynchronous class offered in a time-flexible learning format from September to October 2025. Eligible for PIBC CPL units.

Mapping with Drones 01 focuses on the foundational knowledge and skills you need to operate a small drone and map your data output. It is designed for those with little to no experience operating a drone or creating digital maps. You will gain hands-on skills and knowledge about drone systems and regulations, flight planning and sensor payloads, as well as how to capture and analyze cartographic output models. You’ll complete applied, real-world projects working with spatial data and a variety of free and open-source software including Open Drone Mapping, QGIS, Google Earth and Map Pilot Pro,. If you’re looking for just-in-time, geospatial skills to effectively assess and monitor your natural or built environment for work or recreational applications, this course is for you!

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• determine how and where small drones can be used for mapping applications
   
• plan and fly small drones to generate accurate 2D air photo mosaics and 3D models
   
• process acquired data using WebODM Structure from Motion open-source software
   
• measure and extract 2D and 3D features from processed output
   
• create basic cartographic output and figures

Fee: $545
Delivery Mode: Online Asynchronous
Instructor: Roger Stephen

With a master's degree in geography and a specialization in LiDAR drone technology, remote sensing and spatial analysis, Roger has over 20 years of geospatial work experience within both private sector and university settings. During his master’s research, Roger focused on developing methods to integrate optical remote sensing data from rotary-wing platforms for forest inventory. During the last decade, Roger has applied his focus to remote sensing research and development using small drone platforms. 

Now an accomplished drone expert, he is an integral team member of research and professional partnership projects through the UVic geography department. He currently dedicates his time to innovative projects conducted at the SURREAL lab where he is responsible for building and testing UAV equipment and leading multiple data collection missions from vineyard health to post-wildfire assessment. More recently, Roger has been involved in the course development and teaching of applied drone mapping where he enjoys sharing his technical skills and passion for the exciting opportunities that drone technology can offer novices and professionals alike.