2026 TNGIC Conference Pre-Conference TrainingApril 14, 2026 (Tuesday 9AM-4:30PM)All training is IN-PERSON Please note: Lunch will not be provided during the pre-conference training. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and lunch during the pre-conference training or grab lunch somewhere nearby with other attendees! REGISTER HERETraining Session 1: Decoding Part 107: Chart Reading, METARs, Airspace, and the FAA Exam EssentialsWorkshop Cost: The cost is $25, with all proceeds supporting TNGIC student assistantships and scholarships. Time: Full Day (9:00AM -12:00PM and 1:00PM - 4:30PM) Location: TBA Description: This full-day workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate, focusing on the concepts and terminology that new test-takers often find most challenging. Participants will learn how to interpret sectional charts, understand airspace classifications, decode METAR and TAF weather reports, read airport diagrams, and navigate key regulatory requirements. While this training will not prepare attendees to pass the exam immediately, it will give them the foundation they need to understand the FAA’s language, expectations, and knowledge domains, along with a clear plan for what to study next. The workshop combines guided instruction with hands-on practice using the FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement (FAA-CT-8080-2H), which participants must purchase and bring to class. No prior experience is required. All other materials, including PDFs of the presentation and a large set of sample exam questions—will be provided. The cost is $25, with all proceeds supporting TNGIC student assistantships and scholarships. Please note that this will be a fast-paced, content-heavy day designed to familiarize participants with unfamiliar and sometimes esoteric material. Those who attend should expect to set aside additional time after the conference to fully prepare for the exam. Instructor: Michael Camponovo, GIST Outreach Coordinator and FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Required Materials and Important Notes: To participate fully in the workshop, attendees must bring:
Important Disclaimer: This workshop is designed as an introduction to FAA Part 107 knowledge areas. While participants will gain hands-on practice with key skills and a solid understanding of exam expectations, this single-day session alone will not fully prepare attendees to pass the Part 107 exam. Additional independent study will be necessary before scheduling the test. No prior aviation or UAV experience is required. Training Session 2: Introduction to PythonWorkshop Cost: The cost is $25, with all proceeds supporting TNGIC student assistantships and scholarships. Time: 9:00AM -1:00PM Location: TBA Details: The class will be an Intro to Python class focused on absolute beginners in Python. This class will be well suited to anyone uncertain where to begin with Python. The materials covered will be general Python knowledge with a focus on the application of Python in GIS. The goal of this class is to create a great foundation in coding fundamentals allowing participants to grow their skills and confidence in the use of Python. Attendees should bring a laptop or device to participate in this training. Instructor: Jeff Kirchberg, Solutions Engineer (KCI Technologies) - Jeff Kirchberg is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in GIS implementation, database development, and map production. He has worked with ArcPro, ArcSDE, ArcGIS Server, Field Maps, Survey123, Dashboards, ArcGIS Online, Portal, and GPS Data collection for 13 years. Additionally, he has implemented and administered the Asset Management System (Cartegraph), coded in Python for 12 years, and managed Microsoft SQL Server for six years. He has also configured and implemented Esri Utility Network, managed Electrical Circuit Models and Outage Management Systems, and developed mobile apps. He has extensive experience in asset management systems, Python coding, and the configuration and implementation of Esri Utility Network. Training Session 3: OpenStreetMap 101 and Map-a-thonWorkshop Cost: FREE Time: 2:00PM - 4:30PM Location: TBA Instructors: Maggie Cawley, Randal Hale, Stacy Curry-Johnson, and Natalie Robbins Details: Have you ever noticed the OpenStreetMap (OSM) logo at the bottom of your basemap and wondered more about how OSM data is created and how you could utilize OSM in your own work? Join us for an introductory workshop for OSM, no experience necessary! The first part of the class will provide an introduction to the OSM platform and outline how to become a contributor to update and add data to the platform. In the second half of the class, we will launch a mapping campaign for a small area surrounding the hotel and map together. Afterwards, we invite attendees to join us at the hotel bar for a Mappy Hour to chat about all things OSM and beyond! Timing 2pm to 4:30pm REGISTER HERE |