Houston Driscoll
Ellicott City,MD
Summary
Highly motivated Military Intelligence undergraduate at The Citadel with hands-on experience supporting defense contracting, national security programs, and executive-level business development. Proven contributor to interagency, mission-focused efforts involving DHS, the White House, U.S. Army, Intelligence Community, DARPA-aligned research, and emerging defense technologies. Background includes acquisition support, applied AI prompt development, opportunity evaluation, senior-level briefing development, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) instruction. Recognized for professionalism, analytical thinking, communication skills, and the ability to perform effectively in disciplined, high-trust environments. Seeking internships or entry-level roles within defense, intelligence, or national security organizations.
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Drone Pilot / Chief Instructor
Cipher Group
Baltimore, MD
01.2022 - Current
- Instructed 20+ students per class in UAS operations, FAA regulations, safety procedures, and mission execution.
- Conducted risk assessments, pre-flight checks, and post-flight briefings.
- Improved operational efficiency through advanced flight planning and routine maintenance.
- Repaired, recalibrated, and tested drones to maintain operational readiness.
- Developed curriculum, lesson plans, and supported instructional administration.
- Operated advanced drone systems for aerial surveillance and data collection.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop drone flight plans and execute missions efficiently.
- Conducted pre-flight checks ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational guidelines.
- Trained junior pilots on drone operation protocols and best practices, enhancing team performance.
Intern to the CEO
Phoenix Defense Group
Maryland
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Provided direct business development support to the CEO within a defense contracting environment.
- Assisted with identification, tracking, and analysis of government and commercial opportunities.
- Coordinated meetings, prepared agendas, captured action items, and supported follow-up execution.
- Developed over 15 executive-level presentations and briefing materials for leadership reviews.
- Supported market research, competitive analysis, and proposal preparation aligned with growth objectives.
- Supported a DARPA-focused contract by conducting market research and due diligence on emerging technologies and companies seeking DARPA funding.
- Created senior-level briefing materials for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and White House leadership on integrating DHS assets into the Golden Dome architecture.
- Built Briefings for PHX Defense that contributed to senior White House, DHS, and U.S. Army officials conducting in-person engagements in Texas to evaluate DHS air domain awareness assets.
- Supported briefings and discussions on future joint cooperation for Golden Dome planning and DHS border security operations.
- Created briefings and reports on PHX Defense vulnerability assessment projects
- Coordinated logistics support to enhance project efficiency and effectiveness.
Junior Sales Associate
E.C. Pops
Ellicott City, MD
10.2019 - 06.2025
- Managed sales floor operations including opening/closing procedures and cash handling.
- Delivered high-quality customer service, upselling products and resolving inquiries.
- Trained more than 10 new employees on POS systems and operational procedures.
- Maintained organized displays to promote merchandise and attract customers.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve sales goals and improve store performance.
Intern, Direct Report to Sr VP of National & Global Security Solutions and Chief Growth Officer
QinetiQ
Tysons Corner, VA
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Supported national security and government-focused programs within a major defense contractor.
- Developed and refined AI prompts for acquisition market research and opportunity assessment resulting in a streamlined pipeline reducing man hours on BD staff. Tools are now being used by Business Development unit.
- Evaluated and logged opportunities in internal pipeline tracking systems.
- Prepared concise briefing decks on U.S. government agencies and mission areas.
- Conducted research and analysis to inform project decisions and strategies.
- Assisted in preparing technical documentation and reports for stakeholder review.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline operational processes.
- Supported data analysis efforts, contributing to the development of strategic recommendations for clients.
Drone Pilot Assistant Instructor
Cipher Group
Baltimore, MD
06.2020 - 01.2022
- Assisted lead instructor with training delivery, curriculum development, and administrative support.
- Ensured FAA compliance through detailed documentation and safety enforcement.
- Supported aerial photography and data collection missions.
- Operated drones for aerial surveying, capturing high-resolution images and data.
- Conducted pre-flight checks and maintained equipment to ensure operational safety.
- Collaborated with project teams to integrate aerial data into GIS systems.
- Developed flight plans based on project requirements and environmental conditions.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced efficiency of drone missions.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Military Intelligence
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina
Charleston, SC05.2027
High School Diploma - undefined
Mt. Hebron High School
Ellicott City, MD06.2023
Skills
- Defense & National Security Environment Familiarity
- Intelligence & Acquisition Support
- Research, Analysis & Opportunity Evaluation
- Briefing & Slide Deck Development
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Operations & Maintenance
- Instruction, Training & Leadership
- Team-Based Operations & Customer Engagement
- FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot regulations
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) Proficiency
- Business Development Tools (GovWin, Deltek, GovTribe, Bloomberg Gov, SAMGov, USASpendinggov, AI tools)
- Sales, Customer Service, Point of Sales Systems, Cash handling
- Teamwork and collaboration
LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES
The Citadel – South Carolina Corps of Cadets | Squad Sergeant Led and mentored assigned cadets in discipline, accountability, and performance. Conducted drill instruction, inspections, and corrective training. Enforced Corps regulations and reported through chain of command. Modeled professionalism, time management, and adherence to the Honor Code. Citadel Hurling Team – Member | 2023 – Present Victor Company Drill Team – Kelly Cup Performance Member, St. Paul’s Catholic Church
Timeline
Intern to the CEO
Phoenix Defense Group
06.2025 - 08.2025
Intern, Direct Report to Sr VP of National & Global Security Solutions and Chief Growth Officer
QinetiQ
06.2024 - 08.2024
Drone Pilot / Chief Instructor
Cipher Group
01.2022 - Current
Drone Pilot Assistant Instructor
Cipher Group
06.2020 - 01.2022
Junior Sales Associate
E.C. Pops
10.2019 - 06.2025
High School Diploma - undefined
Mt. Hebron High School
Bachelor of Arts - Military Intelligence
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina