Understanding Human Factors

About the Certification

This certification validates a comprehensive understanding of the human factors facing UAS operators and technicians as well as the tools and techniques used to combat human error. The recipient has demonstrated proficiency in assessing situational awareness, the core tenets of Crew Resource Management, and identifying risks in highly autonomous systems.

Skills You'll Gain:

• Situational Awareness
• Crew Coordination & Communication
• Aeronautical Decision-Making
• Human Factors
• And More!

Great For:

• Mid-level employees or individuals seeking to advance in the unmanned aviation industry
• Newly hired staff working for Part 135 or Part 108 Operators

Certification Process

Step 1: Optional Completion of Prep Course

The online course has 150 hours of content, including explanation videos, practice exams, and original content developed by our team of experts.

Step 2: Take the Exam

The independent, third-party exam is proctored online or in-person and consists of 70 multiple-choice questions. Participants have 1.5 hours to complete the exam and must achieve a 80% or greater score to earn the certification. Individuals are allowed up to three attempts to pass. Accommodations are available upon request.

Step 3: Maintain Your Certification

Certification is valid for 24 months; recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training.

NOTE: Curriculum is available through USI to prepare for the exam but is not required to sit for the proctored certification exam. Recertification is assessed by a third-party, independent provider.

What You'll Learn in the Prep Course

The preparatory course consists of five modules:

Module 1: Explores human interaction with all elements of UAS operations, including technology, environment, and organizational factors. Covers ergonomics, cognitive workload, and user interface design to ensure safe and efficient UAS operation.

Module 2: Focuses on the types of errors that can occur during UAS operations, their root causes, and potential consequences. Discusses the psychology behind errors, common error types in UAS contexts, and strategies to reduce and manage errors, improving safety and performance.

Module 3: Examines how UAS operators interact with technology, including control systems, automation, and communication tools. Highlights the importance of designing intuitive and reliable interfaces, and the effect of automation on operator performance and situational awareness.

Module 4: Analyzes decision-making in UAS operations and the factors influencing operator choices during missions. Covers decision-making models, risk assessment, situational awareness, and how experience and training contribute to effective decisions in various operational conditions.

Module 5: Teaches Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles for use in environments where human error can have serious consequences. CRM, primarily applied to improve aviation safety, emphasizes interpersonal communication, leadership, and decision-making within UAS operations.

Delivery Format

• This is an online, self-paced, and instructor-supported course.
• The course materials are provided online via USI’s Learning Management System.
• Instructor sessions are delivered using Microsoft Teams.
• You will have 12 months to complete the course and exam, which starts from the date you purchase the course.

Career Pathways

This course is part of the following pathways:

• Professional Remote Operator (PRO®) Pathway