Thomas Walls
Garner,NC
Summary
Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, or drone) expert with more than 20 years of experience in aerial photography and photogrammetry, operations management, training and data analysis. Seasoned Operations Manager and talented leader with 6 years of experience applying exceptional planning and problem-solving abilities toward enhancing business plans and day-to-day activities. Results-driven and resilient in developing teams while improving processes and increasing productivity. Bringing solid understanding of industry trends, excellent communication skills, talent for spotting areas in need of improvement and implementing changes with strategic approach.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
UAS Operations Manager
N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation
01.2018 - Current
- Lead UAS Pilot for NCDOT. Responsible for Photogrammetric generation of engineering and geomatic data for transportation projects.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Oversaw facility maintenance, ensuring optimal functionality of equipment and infrastructure at all times.
- Train and certify NCDOT employees in UAS operations
- Identify, procure and manage UAS flee to support NCDOT drone operations
- Analyze and archive UAS data.
Photogrammetrist
N.C. Department of Transportation
01.2002 - 01.2018
- Trained junior team members in advanced photogrammetry techniques, elevating overall team expertise.
- Established strong relationships with clients through clear communication and prompt responses to inquiries or concerns throughout the project lifecycle.
- Implemented innovative software solutions, resulting in more streamlined workflows and increased productivity.
- Developed high-quality 3D models with precise measurements, improving client satisfaction.
- Contributed to successful large-scale infrastructure projects by providing accurate terrain information for planning purposes.
Aerial Photographer/Photogrammetrist
Minnesota Department of Transportation
01.1997 - 01.2002
- Captured high-resolution images for various industries, including real estate and construction.
- Generated new business leads through networking events and referrals from satisfied clients, contributing to company growth.
- Improved team communication by maintaining open lines of dialogue with fellow photographers, editors, and project managers throughout each assignment.
- Increased client satisfaction with timely delivery of high-quality aerial photographs for marketing and promotional purposes.
Geodetic Surveyor
Nebraska Department of Transportation
01.1995 - 01.1997
- Performed field calculations to complete assessments.
- Gathered, organized and modeled data for reports and presentations.
- Collaborated with engineers, architects, and construction professionals to ensure accurate information was incorporated into designs.
- Utilized GPS technology for efficient data collection, expediting the completion of fieldwork assignments.
Forward Observer
US Army
11.1988 - 11.1991
- Enhanced target acquisition accuracy by conducting thorough terrain analysis and utilizing advanced observation equipment.
- Ensured compliance with established rules of engagement when directing fires against enemy targets.
- Provided timely and accurate targeting data for artillery units, leading to precise strikes on enemy positions.
- Established effective observation posts in various environments, maximizing visibility while maintaining concealment from enemy forces.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Conservation And Environmental Systems
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE08.1995
Skills
- Aerial photography and photogrammetry
- UAS use case research and demonstration
- UAS technology solution identification and procurement
- UAS fleet management
- UAS operator training/certification
- UAS subject matter expert/advisor for government agencies and private companies
- Operations Management
- Operations Monitoring
- Staff Training
- Inventory Management
Certification
- Level 1 sUAS Thermographer, Infrared Training Center
- DroneDeploy Fundamental, DroneDeploy
- Consortiq Flight Management, Consortiq
- Certified Trinity F90 Operator, Duncan-Parnell Inc.
- Certified Ebee Pilot, senseFly, now AgEagle
- Certified Wingtra Pilot, Wingtra
- Intel Falcon8+ Training, Intel Corporation
Accomplishments
2022 N.C. Governor's Award for Excellence in Public Service
Affiliations
- NC AUVSI
Timeline
UAS Operations Manager
N.C. Department of Transportation Division of Aviation
01.2018 - Current
Photogrammetrist
N.C. Department of Transportation
01.2002 - 01.2018
Aerial Photographer/Photogrammetrist
Minnesota Department of Transportation
01.1997 - 01.2002
Geodetic Surveyor
Nebraska Department of Transportation
01.1995 - 01.1997
Forward Observer
US Army
11.1988 - 11.1991
Bachelor of Science - Conservation And Environmental Systems
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Level 1 sUAS Thermographer, Infrared Training Center
- DroneDeploy Fundamental, DroneDeploy
- Consortiq Flight Management, Consortiq
- Certified Trinity F90 Operator, Duncan-Parnell Inc.
- Certified Ebee Pilot, senseFly, now AgEagle
- Certified Wingtra Pilot, Wingtra
- Intel Falcon8+ Training, Intel Corporation
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