As the Director of the Colorado State University Drone Center, I lead a dedicated team in providing comprehensive drone services tailored to meet the needs of researchers, students, and industry professionals. Our center specializes in facilitating access to cutting-edge drone technology for a diverse array of missions.My role involves strategic planning and meticulous execution of drone operations across various applications within the small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS) domain. I am deeply involved in the design, customization, and integration of drone platforms, ensuring they are equipped to carry specialized sensors or perform specific functions requested by our esteemed clientele at the CSU Drone Center.In addition to my directorial responsibilities, I serve as the principal instructor at the CSU Drone Center, where I have personally trained over 1,000 drone pilots, guiding them towards achieving their Part 107 certification. Furthermore, I am proud to have co-created two flagship programs: the CSU UAS First Responders Drone training initiative and the UAS Mapping and Modeling program, both of which have significantly contributed to advancing drone education and proficiency.Complementing my role within academia, I hold the position of Adjunct Professor at Colorado State University, where I impart knowledge through instructing the UAS In Engineering course, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals in this burgeoning field.At the CSU Drone Center, I have collaborated with a talented team to secure operational waivers under Part 107 for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), high-altitude, and flight-over-people applications, underscoring our commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. Moreover, my credentials as a certificated part 61 private pilot afford me valuable insights into both unmanned and crewed aviation realms, enriching our operational perspective.Drawing from my extensive background in law enforcement, I bring over 20 years of experience from my tenure with the CSU Police Department, where I retired as a Sergeant. Throughout my career, I spearheaded the planning and execution of numerous large-scale events, ranging from football games to political rallies, demonstrating my proficiency in event management and security coordination. Additionally, I held pivotal roles such as manager of the CSU Dispatch Center, overseeing a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) 911 call center, and serving as a Patrol Sergeant, further honing my leadership and operational acumen.