FULLERTON, Calif., Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Fullerton College is bridging the gap between advanced technical training and military officer commissioning through new Army and Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) partnerships. Announced ahead of Veterans Day, these agreements 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. Traditionally, students must transfer to a university to participate in ROTC; however, crosstown agreements with California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) and Loyola Marymount University (LMU) enable students to remain enrolled at Fullerton College for their full degree.

Prospective students can explore program requirements and enrollment steps at https://drones.fullcoll.edu/rotc.

Strategic Integration of Autonomous Systems

The integration of robotics, artificial intelligence, and uncrewed aircraft is fundamentally changing national defense. Jay Seidel, Director of the Fullerton College Drone Lab, noted that the program aims to develop technically proficient leaders who understand the mechanics of these systems rather than just operating them.

"As we recognize the service and sacrifices of our veterans this Veterans Day, we're also looking toward the next generation of military leaders," said Jay Seidel, Professor and Director of the Fullerton College Drone Technology Program. "Autonomous systems, robotics, and artificial intelligence are transforming military operations. We want future officers to understand these technologies, not simply use them. By combining our bachelor's degree with Army and Air Force ROTC, we're preparing technically knowledgeable leaders for the challenges of tomorrow."

The pathways specifically target different branches of service:

• Army ROTC (CSUF): Focuses on military leadership and commissioning opportunities within the U.S. Army.
• Air Force ROTC (LMU): Prepares students for leadership roles in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force.

The partnerships also 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.

"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, we want Fullerton College to be a place where their experience, education, and commitment to service can come together," Seidel said. "We're building pathways that connect military leadership with the technologies shaping our nation's future."

About Fullerton College Drone Technology

Fullerton College Drone Technology 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 high-demand careers in aviation, aerospace, robotics, defense, public safety, and emerging autonomous technologies. The Fullerton College Drone Lab is committed to providing affordable, accessible, and career-focused education that develops the next generation of technology professionals and industry leaders.

Learn more at https://drones.fullcoll.edu.

Jay Seidel - Director of the Fullerton Drone Lab at Fullerton College - jseidel@fullcoll.edu

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SOURCE Fullerton Drone Lab