Highly skilled UAS professional with over 10 years of experience in unmanned systems operations, software integration, and advanced troubleshooting. Proven track record in leading cross-functional teams, optimizing UAS technologies, and driving user-centered design in complex military environments. Adept at bridging operational expertise with technical solutions to enhance system performance and mission success. Seeking to continue personal growth while supporting Army UAS programs and contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
HMI/ Crewstation Manager
Integration Innovation, Inc
05.2023 - Current
Performs as the Human to Machine Interface development lead for Uncrewed Vehicle Control software. Currently supports the Scalable Control Interface, Robotic and Autonomous Command and Control, and Launched Effects projects inside of the Command Control and Effects (C2E) product office at PM UAS.
Assists in leading the development of a prototype user interface for the Launched Effects system, collaborating with human factors experts, software developers, and requirements managers to deliver optimal UI designs. Provided technical support and expertly represented the project to ensure alignment with end-user needs and mission objectives.
Facilitates the Agile Software Acquisition process by collaborating with project stakeholders, end users, and software developers to communicate program goals, resolve complex technical issues, and ensure program alignment. Leverages deep technical understanding to bridge communication gaps, streamline development, and drive shared solutions for mission-critical UAS systems.
Performs as the senior enlisted UAS operator and squad leader in the 20th Special Forces Group, Special Operations Robotics Detachment (SORD), formerly known as the Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Detachment (TUAS)
Performs advanced troubleshooting and maintenance on UAS equipment and simulators to ensure system readiness in support of training and deployment missions
Develops Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures to innovate and rapidly enhance UAS system employment
Assists the commander in the management of the UAS program by maintaining flight records, documenting procedures, coordinating training, and leading UAS operations in training and combat environments
Oversees the operation and employment of multiple Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, including the RQ-7B Shadow, the Short Range Reconnaissance Skydio, the Soldier Borne Sensor Black Hornet, and FLIR's Sky Raider
Providing support to the Commander's mission, the Instructor Operator trains and develops soldiers in the SORD to successfully employ systems to support intelligence and reconnaissance objectives, achieve lethal effects when required, and maintain systems for tactical employment.
Software Test Engineer
Integration Innovation, Inc
09.2022 - 05.2023
Assisted with continuous software integration and development testing of the Universal Mission Simulator for the Army's UAS Gray Eagle and Shadow simulation trainers
Identified bugs and clearly reported them using bug tracking systems such as Azure Dev Ops environment
Closely assisted the Product Manager and software developers in detailing product backlog items and acceptance criteria, and to provide backlog prioritization to effectively target user needs and project objectives
Created detailed documentation including test plans, test cases, defect reports, and user guides for reference purposes
Conducted usability testing sessions to gather feedback on the user interface and improve overall user experience
Conducted risk analysis assessments prior to major releases identifying potential impact areas requiring additional focus in testing efforts
Provided Tactical and technical subject matter expertise to the team to accurately and effectively represent the UAS user and their training needs to the engineering team and help deliver the best product.
Software Field Representative
Integration Innovation Inc.
08.2018 - 09.2022
Provided technical support for the Army Trainer's Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Universal Mission Simulator (UMS) to include installation, software and hardware upgrades, and user training
Provides software, and systems support for the Multiple Unified Simulation Environments (MUSE) systems developed by the Joint Systems Integration Lab (JSIL) for Project Manager Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PM UAS) that are integrated into the Universal Ground Control Station (UGCS) and UMS
Performed advanced troubleshooting of systems to identify and correct configuration and software/hardware-related problems on fielded UMS systems
Assisted in test and development of UMS software releases to provide feedback to the Project Manager and Engineers for effective backlog prioritization
Developed user training for software changes and system updates
Developed system documentation to reflect system changes and streamline testing
Utilize Windows Deployment Services to upgrade servers
Ensured that all mission requirements were met through the use of VMware to build, deploy, and utilize virtual machines
Provided on-site technical support and troubleshooting for customers in the field
Participated in product testing initiatives before software releases
Served as a subject matter expert during internal meetings to ensure an understanding of the end user's needs and expectations with each software release.
Senior Development and Training Specialist
Raytheon, GDIT, and Solution One Ind.
09.2016 - 09.2018
Served in several different roles including Instructor Operator (IO), Flight Evaluator/ Standardization Operator (SO/ FE) Aircraft Commander (AC), and Training Development.
Served as a Training facilitator responsible for instructing, testing, and certifying U.S Army, Marine, and civilian Unmanned Aircraft Systems operators in all aspects of Shadow TUAS Operators Course Instructional subjects include Emergency Procedures, Flight Logic, Map to Video Correlation, Simulator Flights, and Flight Line Operations.
Prepared and conducted classroom and hands-on instruction, and development of instructional materials, including exams, and remedial and supplemental materials.
Provided feedback to the student verbally and in writing of the student's performance, and grade the student's work in accordance with Government provided references, procedures, and forms.
Possessed and maintain a Federal Aviation Administration Class III flight physical.
Maintained aircraft currency in assigned UAS as well as maintain all requirements as defined in applicable Government manuals.
Sergeant. 15W, UAS Instructor Operator
Illinois National Guard
01.2011 - 12.2017
The UAS operator supervises or operates the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), such as the Army's Shadow Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, and supporting systems to gather intelligence for mission planning, mission sensor/payload operations, launching, remotely piloting and recovering the aerial vehicle
Other duties include: Prepared and conducted air reconnaissance missions
Operate mission sensor/payload for target detection
Plan and analyze flight missions
Deploy and redeploy the TUAS ground and air system
Operate and perform operator level maintenance on communications equipment, power sources, light and heavy wheel vehicle and some crane operations
Launch and recover the air vehicle
Perform pre-flight, in flight, and post-flight checks and procedures
Direct emplacement of ground control station
Direct emplacement of launch and recovery systems
Supervise and assist in air frame repair.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Excelsior College
Albany, NY
07.2022
Associate of Applied Science - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator
Cochise College
Sierra Vista, AZ
01.2017
Skills
Training & development
UAS Operations
Technical writing
Microsoft Office
Operations Management
Technical leadership
System Testing
Integration Testing
Military operations
User interface design
Awards
Army Commendation Medal, 12/01/21, "For exceptionally meritorious service as a Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator for advanced operating base July- December 2021. SGT Bonner's dedication to duty and selfless service significantly contributed to the units overwhelming mission success. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Special Operations Joint Task ForceLevant, and the United States Army."
Army Achievement Medal, 06/01/22, For exceptional academic achievement while assigned as an Advanced Leader Course student at the United States Army Aviation Center of Excellence NCO Academy. SGT Bonner's perseverance throughout the academically and professionally rigorous course led to his selection as the Distinguished Honor Graduate. His performance reflects great credit upon himself, the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, The United States Army Aviation Center of Excellence, and The United States Army.