The use of drones in agriculture continues to be a popular conversation among farmers across the Midwest, and for good reasons. Drone usage can help with capturing aerial imagery during planting season, weed and crop scouting, spraying crops, locating cattle, documenting storm damage and much more, making them a reliable tool for identifying problems quickly and efficiently.

Iowa State University Digital Ag Innovation Lab is partnering with Terraplex Ag to host a two-day, intensive training designed to cover the essential components of the Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Aeronautical Knowledge Test. This test is required to ensure drone operators stay compliant with FAA guidelines and fly legally. After this 2-day training the attendees will be prepared to sign up and pay for the FAA Test at one of the FAA Testing Centers.

Technology in farming is moving fast and drones are quickly becoming an essential tool so whether you are interested in aerial scouting or gearing up for spray drone use, getting your FAA Part 107 certificate is your first step. 

The FAA Part 107 Test Prep training is scheduled for February 24^th and 25^th in 2026 at the ISU - Alliant Energy Ag Innovation Lab, 3800 University Blvd, Ames. The cost to attend is $449 if registered by February 6, 2026 or the cost is $500 after this date with registration closing on February 20, 2026.

Please note that there is a minimum of 10 registrations and a maximum of 30 registrations for this event.

Use this link to register:    https://terraplexag.com/compliance/test-prep

Attendees at this training will learn:

• Establishing effective Pre-Flight/Post-Flight procedures
• Access to online follow-up testing materials
• Best practices for UAS operations
• Updates on FAA regulations and directives
• Coordination through the Low Altitude Authorization Network
• Proper radio communication techniques

Included in this event:

• Study materials including practice exams
• Lunch and snacks during the 2-day event
• In class instructions on successfully signing up for the FAA Part 107 Test at the FAA Designated testing center (cost of the FAA Part 107 exam is not included in the cost of this event)

Led by an experienced instructor – Sam Welton:

• 6 years military experience flying the Army’s RQ-7B Shadow UAS platform
• 5 years operating agriculture spray drones
• Current role as Director of Compliance at Terraplex Ag, guiding operators through FAA certifications and licensing

Taking the time to learn how to operate a drone legally and safely is a smart investment and it prepares the attendees to use this new technology on their farms and for other key activities.