The Clemson Drone Podcast
Dr Joe Burgett
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Top 10 The Clemson Drone Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Clemson Drone Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Clemson Drone Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Clemson Drone Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Working Missions with the Fly Guys and Matt Domas
The Clemson Drone Podcast
04/24/25 • 23 min
In this episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, host Joe Burgett welcomes Matt Domas from Fly Guys, a leading drone service provider. Founded in 2018, Fly Guys operates nationally and internationally, leveraging a network of in-house and contracted pilots. Matt shares insights into the drone industry, discussing the key qualifications for pilots and drone ownership. He highlights the most common mission types, such as photogrammetry and thermography, and emphasizes the importance of having reliable equipment like the Mavic 3 Enterprise.
Matt and Joe also explore the earning potential for drone pilots working with Fly Guys. Basic missions can pay around $135 per hour, while full-day mapping jobs can earn pilots up to $900. They discuss strategies for network pilots to build their reputations, such as demonstrating reliability, investing in advanced equipment, and staying available for high-priority projects. Additionally, Matt provides valuable advice on navigating challenges in the drone industry, including securing proper insurance and networking with local professionals to expand opportunities.
To wrap up, Matt confirms that joining a drone service provider network like Fly Guys is an excellent way for new pilots to enter the industry with minimal risk. He encourages aspiring drone operators to connect with others in the field, continuously improve their skills, and position themselves as go-to pilots for major providers.
About Matt Domas
Matt Domas is a finance professional turned drone industry expert, currently contributing to the rapid growth of FlyGuys, a leading national drone service provider. Based in Lafayette, Louisiana—where FlyGuys is headquartered—Matt earned his degree in finance from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. After working as a financial analyst for several years, his passion for emerging technology led him to the drone industry. Since joining FlyGuys, Matt has played a key role in the company's expansion, helping to establish its presence across the U.S. and beyond.
Resources discussed in this episode:
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
ClemsonDrone.com
Contact Matt Domas:
Create Demand with Bill McMurrer and Ryan Reid of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office
The Clemson Drone Podcast
05/23/24 • 27 min
In this compelling episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, we delve into the innovative world of law enforcement drone programs with Bill McMurrer and Ryan Reid from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. With decades of combined experience, they shed light on transforming a traditional law enforcement approach into a cutting-edge UAS initiative. From initial challenges to building a robust program, McMurrer and Reid discuss the strategic utilization of drones for various operations, including search and rescue, tactical support, and community engagement. Learn how they cultivated a culture of excellence, empowering officers with advanced drone technology to enhance public safety.
About Bill McMurrer
Sergeant Bill McMurrer serves with the Greenville County Sheriff's Office, overseeing the Technical Services Unit and managing the office's Drone Program. With twenty-eight years of law enforcement experience, Sergeant McMurrer holds a Master's in Criminal Justice from Anderson University Command College and an MBA from Columbia College. In spring 2022, he took charge of the GCSO Drone Unit, initially used mainly for search and rescue and preplanned events. Tasked with developing a Patrol Drone Program at GCSO, he, along with a team of skilled drone pilots, revamped the program. It now includes over fifty Part 107 licensed drone pilots across the agency, with drones available 24/7 in patrol car trunks for various scenarios.
About Ryan Reid
Ryan Reid is a dedicated full-time first responder, and certified UAS FAA Part 107 operator at the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. As the Drone Team Admin Program Coordinator, he leads 53 Part 107 certified remote operators and manages 16 drones, conducting over 250 monthly flights.
With over 23 years of first responder experience, Ryan's unwavering commitment to public safety drives his pursuit of advanced knowledge in innovative robotic solutions. He has instructed Part 107 prep courses for over 150 public safety professionals, providing more than 300 hours of practical drone training.
Ryan began as a volunteer firefighter during high school, leading to a career in law enforcement. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management/Homeland Security from Anderson University. His exceptional leadership as an incident commander during federally declared incidents in South Carolina earned him the South Carolina State Achievement Ribbon.
Ryan emphasizes the critical role of drone technology in enhancing situational awareness and real-time incident documentation in public safety. He believes that drones are indispensable tools for saving lives and property, benefiting both responders and the public.
In his daily role, Ryan leverages UAS technology and collaborates with his agency's leadership to educate, train, and elevate their UAS program. To date, he has undertaken numerous missions, ranging from locating missing or endangered individuals, and aiding in tactical operations, to documenting critical incidents, all in the name of public safety.
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Contact Bill McMurrer & Ryan Reid:
Business Franchise Development with Tanner Harris of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging
The Clemson Drone Podcast
05/09/24 • 32 min
In this episode of The Clemson Drone Podcast, host Dr. Joe Burgett chats with Tanner Harris, the visionary behind Blue Nose Aerial Imaging. Tanner shares insights from his extensive background in aviation, including his time with the United States Navy and United Airlines, and delves into how these experiences fueled his passion for standardizing and elevating the drone service sector through his innovative franchise model. The conversation provides a unique perspective on how military discipline, commercial aviation expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit combine to shape the future of aerial imaging and drone technology across various industries.
The episode follows Tanner's journey from flying manned aircraft to recognizing the untapped potential of drones as versatile, powerful tools for everything from agriculture to infrastructure inspection. Tanner describes the inception of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging during the challenges of the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, specialized knowledge, and the drive to provide meaningful solutions that address real-world problems.
The discussion highlights the critical role of drones in today's technology landscape. Joe and Tanner offer valuable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges within the drone space that will appeal to drone enthusiasts, aspiring entrepreneurs, and industry veterans alike.
About Tanner Harris
Tanner Harris, a distinguished figure in both military aviation and the drone industry, hails from Fairfax, Virginia. With an academic foundation in Aerospace Sciences from Middle Tennessee State University and advanced studies in Government and Security from Johns Hopkins University, Tanner's career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. His journey took flight in the United States Navy, where he earned his wings as a Naval Aviator, serving in key operational and instructional roles. Transitioning to civilian aviation, Tanner soared as a First Officer and later as a Pilot Instructor for United Airlines, mastering a fleet that spans from Airbus A319/320 to Boeing 757 and 767.
Beyond the cockpit, Tanner identified a niche in the growing drone market, leading to the inception of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging. His vision was to infuse the drone industry with the rigor and standardization akin to his aviation background. Under his leadership, Blue Nose Aerial Imaging has emerged as a beacon of excellence, offering a suite of services that cater to sectors as diverse as construction, agriculture, and real estate. Tanner's commitment to quality and consistency is evident in his establishment of a nationwide network of skilled drone operators. His qualifications are extensive, including FAA certifications and multiple type ratings, underscoring his expertise in both manned and unmanned aviation. Now based in Denver with his family, Tanner balances his professional endeavors with personal passions, including running, traveling, and music, often exploring the country in their family RV.
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Contact Tanner Harris:
Start wherever you can with whatever you can with Tyler Mills with HW Lochner
The Clemson Drone Podcast
04/25/24 • 26 min
In this episode of Clemson Drone, host Joe Burgett is joined by Tyler Mills, a seasoned civil engineer and design project manager at HW Lochner. Tyler, with over 11 years of expertise in transportation engineering, shares his journey from personal drone enthusiast to leading the establishment of Lochner's successful internal drone pilot network.
The conversation delves into the evolution of Lochner's drone program, from a small group of individuals using personal equipment to a comprehensive and fully functional enterprise-level drone program. Tyler highlights the challenges faced during the transition and the crucial role played by a dedicated committee in formalizing the program. The discussion also explores the benefits of incorporating drone technology into various engineering realms, including Construction Inspection, Structural Engineering, Aviation Planning, Highway Design, Public Involvement Media, and Marketing.
Tyler emphasizes the importance of starting small and showcasing the tangible benefits of drone technology to garner support and investment within an organization. The episode provides valuable insights for those looking to initiate or enhance a drone program within their agency or company.
About Tyler Mills
Tyler Mills, a proficient civil engineer and design project manager at Lochner, brings over 11 years of expertise to the transportation engineering industry. With a diverse background in both public and private sectors, he has made substantial contributions to projects spanning Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, and West Virginia.
In 2019, Tyler's fascination with drones evolved from a personal interest to a professional asset. He seamlessly integrated drone technology into Lochner's operations, leading the establishment of a successful internal drone pilot network. Currently overseeing 17 Remote Pilots, Tyler's guidance extends the application of drones across various engineering realms, including Construction Inspection, Structural Engineering, Aviation Planning, Highway Design, Public Involvement Media, and Marketing. Residing in Lexington, Kentucky, Tyler enjoys exploring the scenic landscapes with his family in his free time and actively engages in coaching youth soccer and basketball within the community.
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Contact Tyler Mills:
Building a Franchise from the Ground Up with Blue Nose Aerial Imaging
The Clemson Drone Podcast
04/10/25 • 42 min
In this episode, host Joe Burgett from Clemson University sits down with Tanner Harris of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging to explore the expansion of the Clemson drone program and the exciting opportunities available through Blue Nose’s franchise model. Clemson’s drone program has grown significantly since the end of Season 1 of the podcast, now including veterans under Chapter 31 and launching an eight-week online course, UAS Mission Administration, tailored for experienced pilots and program managers. With this expansion, Clemson graduates have a clear pathway to leverage their training into a profitable business through Blue Nose Aerial Imaging’s structured franchise system.
Tanner highlights how Blue Nose Aerial Imaging helps franchise owners hit the ground running by providing essential equipment, business infrastructure, and ongoing support. Franchisees benefit from daily collaboration, weekly "Ask Me Anything" sessions, and monthly meetings, ensuring they’re never alone in navigating the business. Standardized tools like an operations portal, CRM platform, and photogrammetry engine further streamline operations, while national advertising and protected territories create a strong foundation for growth. Tanner also shares key insights on time management and strategic planning, emphasizing that dedication and proper execution are critical to success in the drone services industry. If you’re a newly trained drone operator and looking for business opportunities, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
About Tanner Harris
Tanner Harris is a native of Fairfax, Virginia. He graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in May 2006 with a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Sciences and later from Johns Hopkins University with a Master’s in Government and Security Studies in 2016. He received his commission in the United States Navy from the Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, in 2008.
Following commissioning, Tanner went through flight school at Training Squadron Six (VT-6) and Thirty-One (VT-31) and was designated a Naval Aviator in July 2010. His operational assignments included Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Three (VQ-3), Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Seven (VQ-7), and onboard the USS George Washington (CVN-73). He served as the Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization Lead Pilot Instructor and Assistant Strike Operations Officer. After his service in the Navy, Tanner began flying for United Airlines. He initially qualified as a First Officer on the Airbus A319/320 and was based in Los Angeles, California. Shortly thereafter, he transferred to the Denver, Colorado domicile and completed training on the Boeing 757 and 767 fleet.
Tanner currently serves as a Pilot Instructor at the United Airlines Flight Training Center. Recognizing the lack of consistency throughout the emerging drone industry, Tanner built the Blue Nose Aerial Imaging franchise to help standardize operations, develop brand-name recognition, adhere to a dynamic regulatory environment, and assemble subject matter experts from a variety of backgrounds to heighten the quality of services provided by the Blue Nose franchise team. By streamlining the path to entrepreneurship and empowering franchise owners with resources, experts, and applied training, Tanner developed a collaborative nationwide network of professional drone operators that provide services to companies in construction, agriculture, real estate, television, mapping, marketing, and inspections.
Tanner is a graduate of the US Air Force Advanced Instrument School, the US Navy Legal Officer course, and the Joint Air Operations Command and Control School. He is an FAA certified Remote Pilot and Airline Transport Pilot with type ratings on the Boeing 720, 707, 737, 757, 767, and Airbus A319 and A320. He owns Blue Nose, LLC and Blue Nose Franchising, LLC. Tanner resides in Denver, Colorado with his wife and two children. He enjoys running, traveling, and music and can be found touring the country in the family RV.
Resources discussed in this episode:
- Clemson Drone Courses
- Veteran Support for Clemson Drone Programs
- Career Connection Hub
- *New Course* UAS Mission Administration
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Crafting Effective SOPs for Drone Operations
The Clemson Drone Podcast
06/06/24 • 29 min
In this special solo episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, Dr. Joe Burgett dives deep into the essentials of crafting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for drone operations. With his fresh insights from developing a custom course and training AI bots, Dr. Burgett outlines six critical components for SOPs: Management Systems, Operations, Training, Maintenance, Safety Management Systems, and additional key considerations.
Drone operations of all sizes, big and small, require SOPs to ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency. This episode provides listeners with valuable insights to develop their own. With systems and guidelines in place, your operations can run smoothly and ensure you maintain an excellent reputation.
About Joseph M. Burgett Ph.D.
Joe “Dr. Drone” Burgett is a tenured professor in the Nieri Department of Construction Development and Planning at Clemson University and a Level 3 Thermographer. He has been in university-level academics since 2010 and teaches both undergraduate and graduate-level courses on drone application in the built environment. By trade, Dr. Burgett is a general contractor and has spent many years teaching online courses for the trade unions. His primary area of research is in applied drone technology, and he has worked extensively with the SCDOT. His area of research focuses heavily on using UAS technology for bridge inspections and creating 3-D models to support field operations. He has published multiple peer-reviewed articles on UAS technology including titles such as “Accuracy of Drone Image Based Volumetric Surveys,” “Evaluating the Use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to Perform Low-Slope Roof Inspections,” and “SCiDUC: Solution to Address Common Challenges of State Agency Drone Deployment.” Dr. Burgett was named Clemson University’s 2018 Master Teacher, which is the University’s highest teaching honor. He is the founding President and current Director of the South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Consortium (SCiDUC). SCiDUC is the state’s only 501c3 nonprofit drone association exclusive to South Carolina government agencies. Dr. Burgett is also an accomplished speaker. He is a regular presenter at the Associated Schools of Construction and American Institute of Constructors conferences. He has also spoken at the International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction and the International Conference on Construction Applications of Virtual Reality.
Resources discussed in this episode:
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
From Veteran to Drone Business Owner with Ethan Miller
The Clemson Drone Podcast
05/22/25 • 27 min
Host Joe Burgett welcomes Ethan Miller, a retired UAS Navy veteran, owner of Sea Dragon Drones, and franchise owner with Blue Nose Aerial Imaging. Ethan shares his inspiring transition from military service to entrepreneurship in the drone industry. He reflects on the early challenges of civilian life, including stints in trucking and logistics, and how his discovery of drone mapping and orthomosaic technology reignited his passion for aviation. Through the support of the Blue Nose franchise model, Ethan was able to build a thriving business offering residential real estate videography and commercial construction mapping services.
Ethan also highlights the pivotal role the VA's Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program played in supporting his career shift. From financial assistance to structured guidance, the program empowered him to pursue his business full-time without overwhelming financial strain.
Throughout the episode, Ethan offers practical advice for veterans interested in the drone sector, encouraging them to seek out resources, connect with others in the industry, and explore career paths that align with their existing skills. Joe and Ethan wrap up by emphasizing the collaborative nature of the drone community and the importance of mentorship, innovation, and purpose-driven work.
About Ethan Miller
Ethan Miller is the owner of Sea Dragon Drones LLC and a franchise operator for Blue Nose Aerial Imaging in Springfield, Missouri. A U.S. Navy veteran with 22 years of distinguished service, Ethan amassed over 3,000 flight hours as a Crew Chief on MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters, a role that demanded expertise in combat support, seaborne mine hunting, and disaster relief operations.
His military career honed his skills in precision navigation, aerial surveillance, and operational safety, all of which seamlessly transitioned into his post-service venture into the drone industry. After retiring from the Navy in 2019, Ethan leveraged his passion for aviation and technology to establish himself in the field of aerial imaging. Through Blue Nose Aerial Imaging of the Ozarks, he offers high-resolution aerial photography, videography, mapping, and inspection services for a variety of industries, including real estate, construction, agriculture, and infrastructure.
As a franchise operator, he benefits from a network of elite drone pilots, ensuring access to the latest advancements in drone technology and data analytics. Ethan holds a business degree from Capella University and is a certified FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot, demonstrating his expertise in federal aviation regulations and safe drone operations. He received the APSA BPERP Flight Proficiency and Level 1 UAS Thermography certifications, completing the Clemson Drone UAS Vocation course.
Ethan’s commitment to precision, efficiency, and safety—core values instilled during his military career—sets him apart in the competitive aerial imaging industry. Whether capturing breathtaking landscapes, conducting critical inspections, or assisting in emergency response efforts, Ethan combines military discipline with state-of-the-art drone technology to deliver top-tier aerial imaging solutions for his clients.
Resources discussed in this episode:
- VA's Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program
- Clemson Drone Courses
- Veteran Support for Clemson Drone Programs
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Contact Ethan Miller | Blue Nose Aerial Imaging of the Ozarks:
Trailer: The Clemson Drone Podcast
The Clemson Drone Podcast
12/04/23 • 0 min
I'm excited to host a dynamic 20 to 40-minute interviews with prominent figures in the drone community! These interviews will feature leaders from public agencies, innovative private companies, and visionary entrepreneurs. The goal is to ignite the drone community's passion by sharing inspiring success stories!
🚀💡
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Building a Drone Business Portfolio with Chad Frerer
The Clemson Drone Podcast
03/14/24 • 24 min
In this episode, Joe Burgett dives into the world of drone technology with Chad Frerer, founder of Autonomous Imagery of Mississippi (AIM). Chad, an experienced professional with a background in IT and information security, shares insights into the dynamic drone industry, focusing on several applications. The conversation covers AIM's services, including photogrammetry, precision point clouds, and the fascinating world of 3D reconstructions. Chad also reveals the diverse applications of drone technology, from engineering to marketing, and highlights the importance of establishing strong client relationships.
The discussion delves into Chad's proactive approach to client acquisition, emphasizing the value of old-school methods like door-knocking and personalized outreach. Chad's advice for budding entrepreneurs in the drone business includes understanding the basics, building repeatable processes, and approaching clients with humility. Listeners gain valuable insights into market research, partnership development, and the pivotal role of relationships in the tech-driven industry.
About Chad Frerer
Chad Frerer, an industry expert with two decades of experience, is the founder of Autonomous Imagery of Mississippi (AIM). Specializing in drone technology applications, Chad brings a wealth of knowledge in IT and information security to the evolving field of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). As a pioneer in the industry, Chad focuses on disrupting traditional verticals and explores innovative ways to utilize drone technology for practical solutions.
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Contact Chad Frerer:
- Website: aimdrone.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +1 (888) 325 0164
More than Just a Pretty Picture with David Gallagher of the Ohio Department of Transportation
The Clemson Drone Podcast
02/15/24 • 28 min
In this episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, host Joe Burgett dives into the world of drone technology with a special guest, David Gallagher, Flight Operations Manager for the Ohio Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center. David shares insights into the evolution of the drone industry over the past decade, emphasizing the transformative impact of changing regulations. The discussion unfolds to reveal the critical role drones play in various sectors, from construction monitoring and bridge inspections to collaboration with public health and radiation divisions.
David sheds light on the logistics of managing a diverse team of pilots, including full-time and part-time members with varied backgrounds. He emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to obtain their Part 107 certification and how this approach has proven more successful for their program. The episode also delves into the operational aspects, including flight planning, fleet management, and ongoing training to ensure safety and efficiency.
About David Gallagher
David Gallagher, with over a decade of experience in the drone industry, serves as the Flight Operations Manager for the Ohio Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center. His journey into the drone world began with a background in political and government affairs, leading to a pivotal role in shaping communication strategies and legislative interactions for the Ohio UAS Center. With a keen focus on integrating drone technology into public services, David has become a key figure in advancing the use of drones in various applications.
Resources discussed in this episode:
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Contact Dr Joe Burgett | Clemson Drone:
Contact David Gallagher:
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Clemson Drone Podcast have?
The Clemson Drone Podcast currently has 17 episodes available.
What topics does The Clemson Drone Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Photography, Marketing, Drone, Construction, Aviation, Podcasts, Technology and Education.
What is the most popular episode on The Clemson Drone Podcast?
The episode title 'Crafting Effective SOPs for Drone Operations' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Clemson Drone Podcast?
The average episode length on The Clemson Drone Podcast is 27 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Clemson Drone Podcast released?
Episodes of The Clemson Drone Podcast are typically released every 14 days.
When was the first episode of The Clemson Drone Podcast?
The first episode of The Clemson Drone Podcast was released on Dec 4, 2023.
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