Brad Koeckeritz Email & Phone Number

Provide expert level management expertise in the coordination, scheduling and execution of the Department of the Interior (DOI) unmanned aircraft (UAS) program. Responsible for the development of a comprehensive strategy for the procurement, management, operation, maintenance and disposal of UAS technology to support DOI natural resource, law enforcement and fire management missions. Work with various interagency groups to create DOI policy pertaining to UAS operations within DOI. Act as lead instructor and sole UAS inspector pilot for DOI. Manage Fleet of 100+ DOI unmanned aircraft. Coordinate with the FAA on the implementation of the DOI UAS program. Oversee the DOI applications for UAS flights within the national airspace system. Collaborate with the OAS safety and program evaluation division during investigations of UAS mishaps within DOI. Provide periodic field inspections of UAS operations for the purpose of quality assurance. Draft complex documents including policies, procedures, Department Manuals, and Operational Procedure Memorandums. Participate in national level committees for managing the interagency fire and aviation program. Maintain current IQCS red card qualifications and work with DOI bureaus to promote the safe integration of UAS into the natural resource environment. Serve as a member of national type 1 incident management team. Qualified CFI, CFII, MEI

Boise, Id

Responsible for the development and management of various interagency fire and aviation training courses. Expanded and maintained the DOI unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) training program. Produced, delivered and maintained various courses related to manned and unmanned aviation for DOI/United States Forest Service (USFS). Developed and recommended aviation policy and procedures for both DOI and USFS fire and aviation programs. Reviewed and evaluated training materials for effectiveness and revised courses accordingly. Served as member of national level fire and aviation management committees and working groups including the interagency aviation training and interagency helicopter operations subcommittees. Worked with interagency partners to develop fire and aviation training, standards and policy. Worked with a variety of partners to assure personnel compliance with required training. Worked with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure DOI training met the requirements for operation of UAS in the national airspace system. Maintained a comprehensive knowledge of laws, regulations and policies pertaining to the DOI/USFS aviation program. Served as a member of national type 1 incident management team.

Boise, Idaho Area

Designed, developed, instructed and evaluated various types of fire and aviation related training. Revised departmental aviation training as needed to ensure effectiveness and compliance with agency policy, regulation and law. Managed training program for DOI UAS program. Worked closely with bureau partners to determine if personnel had completed required aviation training. Assisted with training related questions during mishap investigations. Developed various types of fleet pilot training including both residential and distance learning opportunities. Recommended departmental policy changes to senior leadership. Served as a member of national level aviation committees. Served as a member of a national type 1 incident management team

Jackson, Wy

Managed all aspects of a 20-person, two helicopter rappel crew, including hiring, training and supervising firefighters for fire management, SAR, and other project missions. Administered helicopter contracts to ensure contractor compliance with all specifications, rules and regulations. Maintained qualification as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative. Developed and maintained interagency aviation plans, project aviation safety plans, and helicopter operations plans. Developed and maintained aviation training programs for Grand-Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest. Instructed basic and advanced level NWCG and IAT courses.Led training in complex aviation operations such as aerial ignition, rappel and SAR. Maintained crew training and IQCS records, including IQCS account manager responsibilities. Served as a technical expert in the development and implementation of aviation policy such as the interagency rappel guide and interagency aerial ignition guide.