Blake Smithson
Terre Haute,IN
Summary
Military veteran with a deep passion for the outdoors and conservation, I hold a B.S. in Unmanned Systems from Indiana State University, graduating with a 3.94 GPA. During my time at ISU, I developed a strong fascination with Photogrammetry, LiDAR, GIS, and data processing using tools such as Pix4D, Photoscan, Reality Capture, and Drone Deploy. In my recent role as a Systems Design Engineer, I honed technical proficiency, attention to detail, collaborative problem-solving, adaptability, and project management skills—qualities that I am eager to apply in a GIS Analyst role to drive impactful conservation efforts.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
SYSTEM DESIGN ENGINEER / PERMITTING SPECIALIST
Business Communications Solutions, LLC
Evansville, IN
03.2021 - 09.2024
- Capitalized on my expertise in safety and security, along with my B.S. in Unmanned Systems and proficiency in CAD drafting, to excel as a Systems Design Engineer. I designed comprehensive low-voltage electrical systems, including voice evacuation, data cabling, speaker systems, sound masking, security cameras, access control, duress systems, and wireless access points, using advanced knowledge of industry standards. My strong performance and initiative led to two promotions within the first year.
- I acted as a critical liaison between design, sales, project management, and installation teams, ensuring strict adherence to code and quality standards. By implementing collaboration software, I significantly enhanced cross-departmental coordination.
- As the recognized expert in the CAD department, I developed and implemented standard operating procedures to ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency in system designs. This initiative drastically reduced the turnaround time for submittal-ready fire alarm system designs from 5-7 days to just 1-2 days.
LEAD VET TECH
Village Pet Care, P.C.
Mountain Brook, AL
05.2020 - 03.2021
- Leveraged my K9 handling and medical expertise to secure the role of Lead Veterinary Technician during the challenging employment landscape caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this role, I was responsible for recording vital signs, collecting samples, administering vaccines and medications, and managing wound care, including cleaning and bandaging.
- I played a crucial role in surgical procedures, where I prepared and sterilized surgical instruments and equipment, administered anesthesia, restrained animals, and monitored their vitals and machinery. Additionally, I managed catheter and endotracheal tube placements, performed routine dental cleanings, and ensured thorough post-surgery sanitation of the surgical suite.
LIEUTENANT / K9 HANDLER / SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER – UAS DIVISION
Emergency Disaster Tactical Response
Birmingham, AL
03.2020 - 05.2020
- Accepted a position with a startup non-profit organization immediately after graduating college. Shortly after relocating to Alabama, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the organization to lose its federal funding, leading to my furlough a month later.
- During my tenure, I played a pivotal role in assisting the Director with the development of the unmanned systems program, leveraging my specialized knowledge and education. Additionally, I was responsible for training and caring for a cadaver detection K9, ensuring the dog's readiness and effectiveness for field operations.
GROUNDS TECHNICIAN / CREW LEADER
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN
08.2017 - 12.2019
- Balanced part-time work with a demanding academic schedule, consistently completing 15-17 credit hours per semester while maintaining a 3.94 GPA. In my role at Indiana State University, I supported the full-time staff in maintaining the university grounds, ensuring a clean and well-kept campus environment.
- For three months, I stepped into the role of Crew Leader, where I led and motivated a team of 3-5 members. My leadership during this period contributed to the efficient and effective upkeep of the campus, demonstrating my ability to manage responsibilities and lead a team while excelling academically.
CORRECTIONAL OFFICER / K9 HANDLER / ARMORY SUPERVISOR
Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (IDOC)
Carlisle, IN
05.2015 - 07.2017
- Transitioned from a medical career to pursue greater professional and financial opportunities. In this role, I was responsible for supervising 60-120 offenders with mental or behavioral challenges, ensuring their safety and compliance within the correctional facility.
- I trained and deployed working dogs in aggression control, detection, and tracking, utilizing my expertise to enhance security measures. As the Armory Supervisor, I managed and inventoried over $100,000 worth of lethal and non-lethal weapons, equipment, and explosives, maintaining 100% compliance with state and federal regulations.
- In addition to these responsibilities, I instructed staff on the use of lethal and non-lethal weapon systems, firearm tactics, and hand-to-hand combat, contributing to the overall safety and preparedness of the facility.
MOTOR TRANSPORTATION OPERATOR / SERGEANT / TEAM LEADER
Illinois Army National Guard
Paris, IL
02.2009 - 02.2017
- Enlisted at 17 to serve my community and country, with a focus on developing strong leadership skills. In my role, I operated heavy trucks to transport cargo and personnel, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of essential resources.
- As a Team Leader, I led and motivated a group of 5-6 soldiers, providing instruction on Tactical Casualty Combat Care, firearms tactics, and hand-to-hand combat in preparation for potential deployments. I also became the unit's subject matter expert (SME) on Pelletized Loading Systems and Load Hauling Systems, playing a critical role in enhancing the unit's logistical capabilities.
PHLEBOTOMIST I
St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital
Effingham, IL
01.2014 - 05.2015
- Transitioned from a pre-hospital setting to a hospital environment to further my career and achieve a more consistent schedule. In this role, I expertly obtained specimens for lab testing through precise venipuncture procedures, ensuring accurate and timely results.
- I also assisted lab technicians with the processing and testing of specimens, contributing to the overall efficiency of the laboratory. Additionally, I earned certification from the National Phlebotomy Association, further validating my expertise in this field.
FIREFIGHTER / RESCUE TECHNICIAN / NREMT-B
Marshall Fire Protection District
Marshall, IL
01.2012 - 01.2014
- Earned the opportunity to proudly serve my local community as a firefighter and rescue technician. In this role, I located and extinguished fires of varying sizes while ensuring scene safety for both my team and the public.
- I performed emergency life-saving interventions and extractions, utilizing specialized procedures and equipment to respond effectively to critical situations. Additionally, I was nationally and state-certified as an EMT-B, underscoring my commitment to providing comprehensive emergency medical care.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Unmanned Systems
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN12-2019
Emergency Medical Services -
Lake Land Community College
Mattoon, IL01.2012
Skills
- Data Collection and Processing
- Knowledge of Photogrammetry / LIDAR / Drones / GIS
- Collaboration
- Pix4D / Reality Capture / Drone Deploy Experience
- Database Management and Maintenance
- Software Troubleshooting
- UAS Operations
- Proven Remote Work Experience
Websites
Certification
- Udemy AutoCAD VBA Programming - 2024, Udemy Practical AutoLISP Programming - 2024, Hanwha Wisenet Certified Professional - 2022, NTC Fire Alarm System Design - 2021, CompTIA IT Fundamentals + - 2020, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot - 2018, INDOC K-9 Basic - 2017, NPA - 2014, NREMT-B - 2012, Modern Army Combatives Level I - 2011, Motor Transport Operator - 2010, Combat Lifesaver - 2009, Basic Combat Training - 2009
Awards
- Honorable Discharge - 2017, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Illinois National Guard Long Service Ribbon, Illinois National Guard Military Attendance Ribbon w/ Bronze Numeral 2, DRIVER-W Badge, Soldier of the Year (Unit Level) - 1544th Transportation Company - 2013, Commandant’s List - 2010
Timeline
SYSTEM DESIGN ENGINEER / PERMITTING SPECIALIST
Business Communications Solutions, LLC
03.2021 - 09.2024
LEAD VET TECH
Village Pet Care, P.C.
05.2020 - 03.2021
LIEUTENANT / K9 HANDLER / SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER – UAS DIVISION
Emergency Disaster Tactical Response
03.2020 - 05.2020
GROUNDS TECHNICIAN / CREW LEADER
Indiana State University
08.2017 - 12.2019
CORRECTIONAL OFFICER / K9 HANDLER / ARMORY SUPERVISOR
Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (IDOC)
05.2015 - 07.2017
PHLEBOTOMIST I
St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital
01.2014 - 05.2015
FIREFIGHTER / RESCUE TECHNICIAN / NREMT-B
Marshall Fire Protection District
01.2012 - 01.2014
MOTOR TRANSPORTATION OPERATOR / SERGEANT / TEAM LEADER
Illinois Army National Guard
02.2009 - 02.2017
- Udemy AutoCAD VBA Programming - 2024, Udemy Practical AutoLISP Programming - 2024, Hanwha Wisenet Certified Professional - 2022, NTC Fire Alarm System Design - 2021, CompTIA IT Fundamentals + - 2020, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot - 2018, INDOC K-9 Basic - 2017, NPA - 2014, NREMT-B - 2012, Modern Army Combatives Level I - 2011, Motor Transport Operator - 2010, Combat Lifesaver - 2009, Basic Combat Training - 2009
Bachelor of Science - Unmanned Systems
Indiana State University
Emergency Medical Services -
Lake Land Community College
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