About the Dragon Flight Fellowship Program

The Dragon Flight Fellowship at Tiffin University is a specialized program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly growing field of drone technology. This program offers students the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning, industry-specific applications, and real-world experiences across multiple fields. Students will have the chance to work with public safety agencies, private organizations, and research projects, gaining valuable skills and certifications in drone operations, safety, and technology applications.

Areas of Engagement

The Dragon Flight Fellowship provides immersive experiences in various sectors, including:

• Media, Marketing & Storytelling: Aerial photography, videography for marketing, journalism, sports, tourism, and promotional content.
• Real Estate, Property & Insurance: Residential/commercial property imaging, inspections, virtual tours, and insurance documentation.
• Agriculture & Environmental Science: Precision agriculture, crop and livestock monitoring, environmental assessments, and forestry analysis.
• Construction, Engineering & Infrastructure: Surveying, mapping, construction progress tracking, utilities inspection, and 3D modeling.
• Public Safety, Emergency & Government Support: Disaster response, search-and-rescue missions, fire monitoring, traffic analysis, and public safety training.
• Healthcare & Humanitarian Relief: Medical supply delivery, disaster assessment, and humanitarian logistics support.
• Transportation & Logistics: Package delivery research, autonomous mobility testing, warehouse and port inspections.
• Water & Environmental Monitoring: Flood mapping, water sampling, shoreline monitoring, and environmental assessment.
• Education & Workforce Training: FAA Part 107 training, STEM programs, and AI/autonomy testing.
• Sports & Creative Flight: Action filming, FPV flight, and recreational drone applications.
• Defense & Security: Reconnaissance, counter-UAS research, and defense-related projects (in compliance with regulations).

What You’ll Gain

By completing the fellowship program, students will gain:

• Mastery of drone piloting and FAA regulations.
• Hands-on experience with environmental monitoring and mapping technologies.
• Leadership, teamwork, and project management experience.
• Research, data analysis, and communication skills.
• Ethical decision-making abilities focused on community safety and sustainability.

Educational Levels and Opportunities

The Dragon Flight Fellowship is open to undergraduate students interested in drone technology and its applications. The program is designed for students who are pursuing degrees in various fields, including but not limited to:

• Engineering
• Science
• Technology
• Environmental Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Business
• Media Arts
  The fellowship provides an excellent opportunity to supplement the academic coursework with practical, real-world experiences in drone operations.

Important Dates

The key dates for the Fall 2026 intake are as follows:

• Visit Campus & Submit FAFSA by February 1, 2026: To be eligible for the $1,000 Visit Grant and $1,000 FAFSA Grant, students must visit the campus and submit their FAFSA application by this date.
• Application Deadline: Students must complete their application by the specified deadlines. Be sure to check the Tiffin University website for the latest application cutoffs.
• Program Start: The Dragon Flight Fellowship typically begins in the fall semester of each academic year, but students are encouraged to apply early to secure their place in the program.

Requirements and Eligibility

General Eligibility

• Minimum GPA: Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA from high school or maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their college career to stay in the program.
• High School GPA: A minimum of 3.0 for high school students.
• Current College GPA: For transfer students, a 3.0 GPA is required to remain in the program.
• Interest in Drone Technology: Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in drone technology and its various applications, as evidenced in their essay and interview.
• Commitment to Program Activities: Students must remain active and engaged in all fellowship-related activities and adhere to the program’s policies.
• FAA Part 107 Certification: All students are required to earn the FAA Part 107 Certification, which is crucial for legally operating drones for commercial purposes.

Additional Program Requirements

• Students must maintain good academic standing and fulfill the fellowship’s required projects and activities.
• Continued participation in industry conferences, workshops, and collaborations with local agencies is expected.

Benefits of the Program

Practical Experience

• Students will work on real-world drone applications, gaining practical experience in fields like public safety, agriculture, media, and environmental monitoring.
• Partnerships with local agencies, including the Tiffin Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Seneca County Emergency Management Agency, and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, provide a unique opportunity to apply drone technology in real-world scenarios.

Career Opportunities

• The program connects students with career opportunities in drone-related fields, including positions in agriculture, media, construction, defense, logistics, and public safety.
• Graduates leave the program with a portfolio of completed projects, industry certifications, and a strong professional network to help launch their careers in drone technology.

Leadership Development

• The fellowship places a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills through team-based projects, where students will mentor and collaborate with fellow students, and work on capstone projects in their final year.
• Students will also gain experience in project management and professional communication, key skills for any career.

How to Apply: Step by Step

1. Complete the Online Application

• Go to the Tiffin University admissions page and fill out the online undergraduate application.
• Indicate your interest in the Dragon Flight Fellowship when prompted.

2. Submit a Motivational Essay

• After submitting your application, you’ll need to submit an essay explaining your interest in the fellowship program and how it aligns with your career goals.
• Be sure to explain why you’re passionate about drones and how you hope to use the skills you gain in the program.

3. Schedule an Interview

• If your application and essay are accepted, you will be invited to participate in an interview with the fellowship director or admissions team.
• During the interview, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your motivations, previous experiences, and future aspirations in drone technology.

4. Sign the Fellowship Contract

• If accepted, you must sign a fellowship contract agreeing to meet the program’s academic and participation requirements.
• The contract will outline expectations such as maintaining a 3.0 GPA, participating in all required projects and activities, and following the fellowship’s policies.

5. Begin Your Fellowship

• Once all application steps are complete, you’ll begin participating in the Dragon Flight Fellowship during the fall semester.
• The fellowship involves hands-on learning, including drone flight training, project collaboration, and industry exposure, which will continue throughout your undergraduate program.

Key Features of the Fellowship Experience

• Year 1: Focus on drone operations and safety, earning the FAA Part 107 certification, and engaging in small-scale community projects.
• Year 2: Expand your knowledge with advanced drone operations, including GIS and mapping, and collaborate on search-and-rescue missions.
• Year 3: Lead research-driven projects and work with industry experts to apply drone technology to public safety, environmental monitoring, and other real-world issues.
• Year 4: Complete a capstone project showcasing your expertise, and take on a mentorship role for newer fellows.

For more information and to register, visit the official Dragon Flight Fellowship website.

Official Website

Other Best Opportunities

Complete information about Japan 2026 cultural program Ayfn Academy

Complete World Bank Internship Information