Sussex, Warren community colleges partner on drone technology, exercise science programs
NORTHWEST, N.J. — Sussex County Community College and Warren County Community College have launched a new partnership creating shared academic pathways in drone technology and exercise science aimed at expanding access to workforce-focused education while lowering costs for students.
Under the agreement, students can complete general education and prerequisite courses at the college closest to home before transferring to the partner institution for specialized training.
The collaboration will allow Sussex County students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems to begin coursework at Sussex before transferring to Warren County Community College to complete specialized drone technology training.
Warren’s nationally recognized WarrenUAS program features advanced unmanned systems laboratories, flight training facilities and hands-on instruction in areas including photogrammetry, precision agriculture and commercial space operations.
Officials said students gain real-world experience through instructor-led projects and field operations involving autonomous flight, mission planning, data collection and analysis.
The rapidly growing UAS field supports careers in industries including agriculture, construction, infrastructure inspection, environmental science, cinematography, public safety and search-and-rescue operations.
“This partnership leverages Warren’s leadership in drone technology and provides students with unparalleled access to cutting-edge training and real-world experience,” said Dr. William Austin, president of Warren County Community College. “We are proud to collaborate with Sussex to open doors for students in these high-demand fields.”
The partnership also allows Warren County students pursuing an Associate of Science degree in Exercise Science to complete general education coursework at Warren before transferring to Sussex County Community College for specialized instruction.
At Sussex, students will train in the college’s Human Performance Lab, which includes fitness assessment labs, rehabilitation equipment and functional training areas designed to prepare students for careers in health, fitness and wellness fields.
College officials said graduates may pursue careers in athletic coaching, personal training, sports medicine and physical therapy or continue studies at four-year institutions.
“This partnership demonstrates how community colleges can work together to expand opportunities for students,” said Dr. Cory Homer, president of Sussex County Community College. “By combining our strengths, we are providing students with affordable pathways into innovative and in-demand careers.”
Officials from both colleges said the partnership helps reduce tuition costs by allowing students to remain in-county longer while also reducing reliance on out-of-county chargebacks and strengthening regional workforce development efforts.
Students interested in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems program can apply now through Sussex County Community College, with classes scheduled to begin during the Fall 2026 semester.
