Fullerton College Expands ROTC Partnerships for Drone Training
News related to:Fullerton College · 2 min read
FULLERTON, Calif., Nov. 9, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Fullerton College is expanding its military leadership pathways by entering into new partnerships with the Army and Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC). These partnerships, announced ahead of Veterans Day, allow students in the Bachelor of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems program to undergo military leadership training while completing their four-year degree at the college. This initiative establishes a distinctive model within California's community college system, as students traditionally must transfer to a university to participate in ROTC. However, agreements with California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) and Loyola Marymount University (LMU) enable students to remain enrolled at Fullerton College for their full degree.
The program is designed to integrate advanced technical training with military officer commissioning, specifically targeting the integration of robotics, artificial intelligence, and unmanned aircraft systems. Fullerton College's Director of the Drone Lab, Jay Seidel, noted that the program aims to develop technically proficient leaders who understand the mechanics of these systems rather than just operating them. Seidel emphasized that as we recognize the service and sacrifices of our veterans this Veterans Day, we are also looking toward the next generation of military leaders.
The partnerships provide a direct pipeline for high school students currently active in Army JROTC, Air Force JROTC, and Civil Air Patrol. These students can leverage their early experience in aviation and service to pursue an affordable, technology-focused bachelor's degree while maintaining their path toward a commission. Fullerton College further supports the military community through its Vets to Drones collaboration and Credit for Prior Learning initiatives, ensuring that veteran technical expertise is recognized and applied toward academic credentials. These efforts assist service members transitioning into civilian careers while simultaneously creating new opportunities for those preparing to serve as commissioned officers.
The partnerships specifically target different branches of service: Army ROTC at CSUF focuses on military leadership and commissioning opportunities within the U.S. Army, while Air Force ROTC at LMU prepares students for leadership roles in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. Seidel stated that by combining a bachelor's degree with Army and Air Force ROTC, Fullerton College is preparing technically knowledgeable leaders for the challenges of tomorrow.
The initiative is a significant step in Fullerton College's mission to integrate military leadership with the technologies shaping our nation's future. The program's curriculum is designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in aviation, aerospace, robotics, defense, public safety, and emerging autonomous technologies. Fullerton College's Drone Technology program is a nationally recognized leader in drone and autonomous systems education, offering the West Coast's only Bachelor of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems, associate degrees, industry certifications, and registered apprenticeships. Through hands-on training, cutting-edge technology, and industry partnerships, the program prepares students for careers in these high-demand fields.
Whether someone is transitioning out of military service with years of drone experience or entering college with the goal of becoming an Army or Air Force officer, Fullerton College is committed to providing a place where their experience, education, and commitment to service can come together. By building pathways that connect military leadership with the technologies shaping our nation's future, Fullerton College is positioning itself as a leader in education and military integration.