NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University has received a $544,516 Federal Aviation Administration grant to expand drone pilot training and build a workforce pipeline for industries using unmanned aircraft systems in northwest and central Louisiana.
The two-year award, through the FAA’s 2026 Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program, will support NSU’s Advanced Remote and Geospatial Operations Lab, known as the ARGO Lab. University administrators project that up to 600 participants could enroll during the grant period, with outcomes measured through FAA Part 107 certification and job placement.
The funding will expand NSU’s Remote Systems Science and Technology program and establish a dual-enrollment drone pilot training pathway through its network of more than 100 high school partners. It also will support annual field schools with the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training and advanced training for working professionals, first responders and veterans.
Scholarships, internships and coverage of Part 107 exam fees are intended to reduce financial barriers and connect participants with aviation careers.
“This investment allows Northwestern State University to expand cutting-edge drone education and training while building a stronger workforce pipeline for Louisiana,” said Gwen Fontenot, director of Institutional Engagement and Economic Development in NSU’s Office of Economic Development and University Advancement.
Fontenot said unmanned aircraft systems are changing work in manufacturing, infrastructure, public safety and environmental management. The program will combine industry-recognized credentials with hands-on training and career opportunities.
Professor and ARGO Lab Coordinator JD Cox said partnerships with high schools, veteran service organizations, military installations and aviation workforce events will support recruitment, dual enrollment and veteran outreach.
NSU is an FAA Collegiate Training Initiative school and a member of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International. Cox said agreements with Fort Polk and Barksdale Air Force Base provide a framework to help veterans move from military service to FAA certification and civilian employment.
Cox also said NSU’s Natchitoches campus and instructional sites in Leesville, Alexandria and Shreveport are within or adjacent to federally designated Opportunity Zones, qualifying the program under the Willa Brown Aviation Education program requirement.
“With established infrastructure, experienced faculty and deep community partnerships, NSU is positioned to deliver lasting workforce impact in one of Louisiana’s most under-served regions,” Cox said.
More information is available at nsula.edu/argo.