Fullerton Drone Lab Stars in Episode of OC World Series “Earn & Learn”
IRVINE, Calif. (May 14, 2026) — The Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF), one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing community foundations, and OC World, an award-winning multimedia nonprofit, are thrilled to announce the broadcast premiere of “Earn & Learn: Tomorrow’s Innovation Economy” on Monday, May 18 at 5 p.m. on KLCS-PBS.
The Fullerton Drone lab will be featured as one of the program highlights, showing how hands-on training, industry certifications and direct workforce pathways prepare students for high-demand careers in the rapidly growing drone and autonomous systems industry by combining classroom instruction and training with employer partners. With 11 specialized certificate programs, students gain practical technical skills aligned with real-world employer needs. Jay Seidel, director of the Fullerton Drone Lab, discusses the experiential learning opportunities through industry-grade equipment, live field operations and partnerships with public safety agencies, utilities, aerospace companies and technology organizations throughout Southern California. Internships and apprenticeships with the program’s industry partners in the region help students prepare for employment.
This new episode, titled “Tomorrow’s Innovation Economy,” interviews Seidel and student Blake Castillo, exploring the program’s offerings and opportunities from student and faculty perspectives. Seidel and Castillo’s testimonies speak to Fullerton College and OC World’s collaborative efforts to capture the intersection of education and economic innovation while spotlighting how our programs equip the youth and young adults with the skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce.
“This episode provides a look at the Fullerton College Drone Lab and what we offer,” said Seidel, “The perspective from Blake Castillo, a Drone Lab graduate and now a student in the bachelor’s program, helps share insight for students to hear and know they too can be a part of this growing and innovative program.”
OCCF and OC World invite everyone to explore “The Power of Community,” a series that promises to inspire change and elevate the voices of those making a difference. By sharing stories of perseverance and promise, this series serves as a catalyst for dialogue and action, encouraging audiences to connect with local efforts that are making a meaningful and lasting difference.
For more information on “The Power of Community” series, please visit www.oc-cf.org/POC.
The episode will be available for viewing on OC World’s YouTube channel.
About the Fullerton Drone Lab
The Fullerton Drone Lab teaches students to become better and safer pilots with hands-on practice in various industries. Students from all industry sectors can learn how drones can help enhance their workplace, while learning to be safer in the skies. The program is recognized by the FAA as part of its Collegiate Training Initiative. It has been a certified Service Provider by the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International. It has also received certification by ASTM International as a Certified Training Provider. Learn more about the program and its offerings on the Fullerton Drone Lab website.
About Orange County Community Foundation
The Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) transforms our community’s heartfelt intention into greater impact for good by working with local donors and nonprofit partners as an expert advisor and innovator. We serve as a resource for individual and family philanthropists, facilitate grant and scholarship programs, and lead community-based initiatives. OCCF’s Vision 2030, a five-year strategic plan, is designed to amplify giving and support donors’ philanthropic goals as well as address critical needs in Orange County. Since 1989, OCCF has granted more than $1.25 billion in Orange County, across the country, and around the world. For more information, visit oc-cf.org or call (949) 553-4202. Be a part of our conversation on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. View OCCF’s 2025 annual report here.
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