The Clemson Drone Podcast Dr Joe Burgett

In this special solo episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, Dr. Joe Burgett dives deep into the essentials of crafting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for drone operations. With his fresh insights from developing a custom course and training AI bots, Dr. Burgett outlines six critical components for SOPs: Management Systems, Operations, Training, Maintenance, Safety Management Systems, and additional key considerations. 

Drone operations of all sizes, big and small, require SOPs to ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency. This episode provides listeners with valuable insights to develop their own. With systems and guidelines in place, your operations can run smoothly and ensure you maintain an excellent reputation. 

About Joseph M. Burgett Ph.D.

Joe “Dr. Drone” Burgett is a tenured professor in the Nieri Department of Construction Development and Planning at Clemson University and a Level 3 Thermographer. He has been in university-level academics since 2010 and teaches both undergraduate and graduate-level courses on drone application in the built environment. By trade, Dr. Burgett is a general contractor and has spent many years teaching online courses for the trade unions. His primary area of research is in applied drone technology, and he has worked extensively with the SCDOT. His area of research focuses heavily on using UAS technology for bridge inspections and creating 3-D models to support field operations. He has published multiple peer-reviewed articles on UAS technology including titles such as “Accuracy of Drone Image Based Volumetric Surveys,” “Evaluating the Use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to Perform Low-Slope Roof Inspections,” and “SCiDUC: Solution to Address Common Challenges of State Agency Drone Deployment.” Dr. Burgett was named Clemson University’s 2018 Master Teacher, which is the University’s highest teaching honor. He is the founding President and current Director of the South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Consortium (SCiDUC). SCiDUC is the state’s only 501c3 nonprofit drone association exclusive to South Carolina government agencies. Dr. Burgett is also an accomplished speaker. He is a regular presenter at the Associated Schools of Construction and American Institute of Constructors conferences. He has also spoken at the International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction and the International Conference on Construction Applications of Virtual Reality.
Resources discussed in this episode:
Aloft: aloft.aiDroneLogbook: dronelogbook.com--

Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 
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In this compelling episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, we delve into the innovative world of law enforcement drone programs with Bill McMurrer and Ryan Reid from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. With decades of combined experience, they shed light on transforming a traditional law enforcement approach into a cutting-edge UAS initiative. From initial challenges to building a robust program, McMurrer and Reid discuss the strategic utilization of drones for various operations, including search and rescue, tactical support, and community engagement. Learn how they cultivated a culture of excellence, empowering officers with advanced drone technology to enhance public safety.

About Bill McMurrer
Sergeant Bill McMurrer serves with the Greenville County Sheriff's Office, overseeing the Technical Services Unit and managing the office's Drone Program. With twenty-eight years of law enforcement experience, Sergeant McMurrer holds a Master's in Criminal Justice from Anderson University Command College and an MBA from Columbia College. In spring 2022, he took charge of the GCSO Drone Unit, initially used mainly for search and rescue and preplanned events. Tasked with developing a Patrol Drone Program at GCSO, he, along with a team of skilled drone pilots, revamped the program. It now includes over fifty Part 107 licensed drone pilots across the agency, with drones available 24/7 in patrol car trunks for various scenarios.
About Ryan Reid
Ryan Reid is a dedicated full-time first responder, and certified UAS FAA Part 107 operator at the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. As the Drone Team Admin Program Coordinator, he leads 53 Part 107 certified remote operators and manages 16 drones, conducting over 250 monthly flights.
With over 23 years of first responder experience, Ryan's unwavering commitment to public safety drives his pursuit of advanced knowledge in innovative robotic solutions. He has instructed Part 107 prep courses for over 150 public safety professionals, providing more than 300 hours of practical drone training.
Ryan began as a volunteer firefighter during high school, leading to a career in law enforcement. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management/Homeland Security from Anderson University. His exceptional leadership as an incident commander during federally declared incidents in South Carolina earned him the South Carolina State Achievement Ribbon.
Ryan emphasizes the critical role of drone technology in enhancing situational awareness and real-time incident documentation in public safety. He believes that drones are indispensable tools for saving lives and property, benefiting both responders and the public.
In his daily role, Ryan leverages UAS technology and collaborates with his agency's leadership to educate, train, and elevate their UAS program. To date, he has undertaken numerous missions, ranging from locating missing or endangered individuals, and aiding in tactical operations, to documenting critical incidents, all in the name of public safety.
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 
ClemsonDrone.comFacebook: Clemson DroneLinkedIn: Clemson DroneInstagram: Clemson Drone CourseContact Bill McMurrer & Ryan Reid: 
Website: https://gcso.org/Drone Use Guidelines

In this episode of The Clemson Drone Podcast, host Dr. Joe Burgett chats with Tanner Harris, the visionary behind Blue Nose Aerial Imaging. Tanner shares insights from his extensive background in aviation, including his time with the United States Navy and United Airlines, and delves into how these experiences fueled his passion for standardizing and elevating the drone service sector through his innovative franchise model. The conversation provides a unique perspective on how military discipline, commercial aviation expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit combine to shape the future of aerial imaging and drone technology across various industries.

The episode follows Tanner's journey from flying manned aircraft to recognizing the untapped potential of drones as versatile, powerful tools for everything from agriculture to infrastructure inspection. Tanner describes the inception of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging during the challenges of the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, specialized knowledge, and the drive to provide meaningful solutions that address real-world problems. 

The discussion highlights the critical role of drones in today's technology landscape. Joe and Tanner offer valuable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges within the drone space that will appeal to drone enthusiasts, aspiring entrepreneurs, and industry veterans alike. 

About Tanner Harris

Tanner Harris, a distinguished figure in both military aviation and the drone industry, hails from Fairfax, Virginia. With an academic foundation in Aerospace Sciences from Middle Tennessee State University and advanced studies in Government and Security from Johns Hopkins University, Tanner's career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. His journey took flight in the United States Navy, where he earned his wings as a Naval Aviator, serving in key operational and instructional roles. Transitioning to civilian aviation, Tanner soared as a First Officer and later as a Pilot Instructor for United Airlines, mastering a fleet that spans from Airbus A319/320 to Boeing 757 and 767.

Beyond the cockpit, Tanner identified a niche in the growing drone market, leading to the inception of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging. His vision was to infuse the drone industry with the rigor and standardization akin to his aviation background. Under his leadership, Blue Nose Aerial Imaging has emerged as a beacon of excellence, offering a suite of services that cater to sectors as diverse as construction, agriculture, and real estate. Tanner's commitment to quality and consistency is evident in his establishment of a nationwide network of skilled drone operators. His qualifications are extensive, including FAA certifications and multiple type ratings, underscoring his expertise in both manned and unmanned aviation. Now based in Denver with his family, Tanner balances his professional endeavors with personal passions, including running, traveling, and music, often exploring the country in their family RV.

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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 
ClemsonDrone.comFacebook: Clemson DroneLinkedIn: Clemson DroneInstagram: Clemson Drone CourseContact Tanner Harris: 
Website: www.bluenoseaerial.comInstagram: Blue Nose Aerial ImagingFacebook: Blue Nose Aerial ImagingLinkedin: Blue Nose Aerial Imaging 

 In this episode of Clemson Drone, host Joe Burgett is joined by Tyler Mills, a seasoned civil engineer and design project manager at HW Lochner. Tyler, with over 11 years of expertise in transportation engineering, shares his journey from personal drone enthusiast to leading the establishment of Lochner's successful internal drone pilot network.

The conversation delves into the evolution of Lochner's drone program, from a small group of individuals using personal equipment to a comprehensive and fully functional enterprise-level drone program. Tyler highlights the challenges faced during the transition and the crucial role played by a dedicated committee in formalizing the program. The discussion also explores the benefits of incorporating drone technology into various engineering realms, including Construction Inspection, Structural Engineering, Aviation Planning, Highway Design, Public Involvement Media, and Marketing.

Tyler emphasizes the importance of starting small and showcasing the tangible benefits of drone technology to garner support and investment within an organization. The episode provides valuable insights for those looking to initiate or enhance a drone program within their agency or company. 
About Tyler Mills

Tyler Mills, a proficient civil engineer and design project manager at Lochner, brings over 11 years of expertise to the transportation engineering industry. With a diverse background in both public and private sectors, he has made substantial contributions to projects spanning Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, and West Virginia.

In 2019, Tyler's fascination with drones evolved from a personal interest to a professional asset. He seamlessly integrated drone technology into Lochner's operations, leading the establishment of a successful internal drone pilot network. Currently overseeing 17 Remote Pilots, Tyler's guidance extends the application of drones across various engineering realms, including Construction Inspection, Structural Engineering, Aviation Planning, Highway Design, Public Involvement Media, and Marketing. Residing in Lexington, Kentucky, Tyler enjoys exploring the scenic landscapes with his family in his free time and actively engages in coaching youth soccer and basketball within the community.


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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 
ClemsonDrone.comFacebook: Clemson DroneLinkedIn: Clemson DroneInstagram: Clemson Drone CourseContact Tyler Mills: 
Website: hwlochner.comLinkedin: Tyler Mills 

 In this episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, host Joe Burgett sits down with Eric Harkins, a seasoned professional with nearly a decade of experience in the drone industry and CEO of Back Forty Aerial Solutions. The conversation delves into the world of remote sensing services, focusing on thermal, photogrammetry, and lidar technologies. Eric shares insights into the evolution of the drone industry, the challenges of educating clients about the value of drone services, and the distinct advantages and disadvantages of lidar versus photogrammetry. The discussion also touches on ground control points (GCPs) and real-time kinematics (RTKs), providing valuable perspectives for both seasoned professionals and those looking to enter the drone business.

About Eric Harkins

With a background in forestry and GIS, Eric Harkins has been a prominent figure in the drone industry for almost a decade. As the owner of Back Forty Aerial Solutions, Eric specializes in lidar, photogrammetry, and thermal imaging. His journey from a background in history to becoming a key player in the drone industry showcases the transformative power of emerging technologies. Eric's wealth of experience and practical advice make him a valuable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of the drone business.
Resources discussed in this episode:
Custom Drone Pads: customdronepads.com
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 
ClemsonDrone.comFacebook: Clemson DroneLinkedIn: Clemson DroneInstagram: Clemson Drone CourseContact Eric Harkins: 
Website: backfortydrones.comFacebook: Back Forty Aerial SolutionsLinkedin: Eric Harkins 

 
In this episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, we sit down with Alex Willis, a key player at ECS, a nationwide company specializing in geotechnical, environmental, and facility services. Alex, an expert in utilizing drones for geotechnical applications, takes us on a journey from the inception of ECS's drone project to its evolution into an integral part of their operations. From overcoming initial resistance to the strategic implementation of drone technology, Alex shares insights into the transformative impact on efficiency, safety, and project deliverables. Join us as we delve into the fascinating intersection of construction, technology, and drone innovation.

About Alex Willis

Alex Willis is a geotechnical engineer in training, project manager, and UAV pilot located Asheville, NC. He is working with ECS Southeast, one of the nation’s leading engineering consulting firms. As a Pilot in Command, Alex frequently applies UAV technology to engineering analysis and design projects. He is also helping grow the companies' UAV service line, which includes LiDAR, Photogrammetry, and inspection services in the geotechnical, environmental, and facilities markets. His passions outside of work include rock climbing, high lining, playing folk music, and exploring the Appalachian Mountains with his partner Sierra and their two dogs. 
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Contact Dr. Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone: 
ClemsonDrone.comFacebook: Clemson DroneLinkedIn: Clemson DroneInstagram: Clemson Drone CourseContact Alex Willis:
Website: ecslimited.comLinkedin: Alex Willis