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Chris Robertson has dedicated 24 years to Colorado State University, transitioning from a two-decade tenure in law enforcement with the Colorado State University Police Department to his current role as Director of the CSU Drone Center for the past 6 years. With over 9 years of experience in UAS operations spanning both public and private sectors, he co-founded the Larimer County UAS Team, offering drone services for fire, police, and search and rescue operations. Christopher’s expertise includes piloting sUAS for various missions, such as police, fire, search and rescue, GIS/remote sensing, and scientific research. He founded the CSU Drone Flight School, a program which has now helped over 1000 pilots obtain their Part 107 FAA UAS certificate.
Additionally, Christopher serves as an Adjunct Professor with the Walter Scott College of Engineering, teaching UAS technology. Holding FAA Private Pilot and Remote Pilot licenses, his proficiency extends to various unmanned aerial systems, including multi-rotor, VTOL, and fixed-wing models. Throughout his tenure at the Colorado State University Police Department, Christopher served for 16 years in the patrol division and 4 years in event security management. In 2020, he assumed the role of full-time Director at the CSU Drone Center, continuing his commitment to leveraging technology for community safety and support, as evidenced by his contributions to Larimer County Search and Rescue as a drone pilot, search leader, and K9 handler.
Adam Smith leads all public-facing and educational initiatives for the Drone Center, drawing on over 20 years of expertise gained as a retired police officer from Colorado State University. His pivotal role in developing and overseeing the police department’s UAS program underscores his deep understanding of drone operations, mission planning and flight safety. Holding an FAA Part 107 pilot license, Adam’s extensive experience encompasses piloting drones for law enforcement, event management, search and rescue missions, as well as commercial photography and videography. Adam has over 20 years of experience as a vocational instructor, both in the classroom and with hands-on technical exploration in the field. As a decorated U.S. Navy veteran, Adam embodies discipline and dedication, and is passionate about empowering the next generation of aviators.