Randy Neal
Salt Lake City,UT
Summary
FAA Part 107 Certified UAS Pilot with 30 years of progressive public safety experience, including extensive leadership in tactical, explosive, and executive protection operations. Specialized in Drone as First Responder (DFR) deployment, real-time aerial intelligence, Beyond Visual Line Of Sight (BVLOS) and integration of UAS platforms into high-risk law enforcement operations. Recognized for enhancing officer safety, reducing response times, and delivering actionable intelligence during dynamic critical incidents. Proven ability to operate under extreme pressure while supporting command-level decision-making with precision and professionalism.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Law Enforcement Officer | Tactical Operations | UAS Operator
Salt Lake City Police Department
Salt Lake City, UT
01.1996 - 02.2026
Deployed UAS during live critical incidents providing aerial overwatch, suspect tracking, perimeter control, and rapid scene assessment.
- Operated Skydio and DJI platforms delivering real-time intelligence to command staff and field officers.
- Conducted high-risk explosive breaching and tactical entry operations as a SWAT Explosive Breacher.
- Conducted routine patrols to ensure public safety and deter criminal activity.
- Responded to emergency calls, providing immediate assistance and support to citizens in distress.
- Prepared detailed incident reports documenting findings and actions taken during investigations.
- Assisted in training new officers on departmental procedures, protocols, use of force and firearms
- Served as a DHS-certified Explosive Detection Canine Handler supporting dignitary protection and infrastructure security.
- Provided executive protection for the Mayor of Salt Lake City including advance planning and threat mitigation.
Education
High School Diploma -
North Summit High School
Coalville, UT05-1985
No Degree - Physiology
Univeristy Of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT06-1990
Skills
- Drone as First Responder (DFR) Operations
- Beyond Visual Line Of Sight (BVLOS) Operations
- Tactical Aerial Overwatch & Scouting
- Tactical Interior Drone Soft Clearing
- Real-Time Intelligence & ISR Support
- High-Risk Incident Deployment
- Mission Planning & Risk Assessment
- Incident Command System (ICS) Integration
- Explosive Threat Detection & Mitigation
- Executive Protection & Dignitary Security
- Officer Safety & Operational Leadership
- Hostage negotiation
- Crime prevention
- Arrest techniques
- Firearms proficiency
- Drug enforcement
- Investigative skills
- Self-defense training
- Emergency vehicle operation
- Defensive tactics training
- Surveillance
- Conflict de-escalation
- Crisis intervention and deescalation
- Officer training
- Specialized Bike Patrol
Certification
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot
- Drone as First Responder (DFR) Certified Pilot
- Skydio Certified Operator
- DJI Certified Operator
- DHS Explosive Detection Canine Handler
- DHS Patrol Canine Handler
- SWAT Explosive Breaching - TEES Certified
- Firearms Instructor (Handgun, Rifle, Shotgun, Subgun)
- Executive Protection Certification
Personal Information
Title: UAS / Drone Operator | Tactical Aviation Specialist | Public Safety Professional
Timeline
Law Enforcement Officer | Tactical Operations | UAS Operator
Salt Lake City Police Department
01.1996 - 02.2026
High School Diploma -
North Summit High School
No Degree - Physiology
Univeristy Of Utah