Start wherever you can with whatever you can with Tyler Mills with HW Lochner

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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About Tyler Mills

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Previous Episode

Lidar vs. Photogrammetry with Eric Harkins of Back Forty Aerial Solutions

In this episode of the Clemson Drone Podcast, host Joe Burgett sits down with Eric Harkins, a seasoned professional with nearly a decade of experience in the drone industry and CEO of Back Forty Aerial Solutions. The conversation delves into the world of remote sensing services, focusing on thermal, photogrammetry, and lidar technologies. Eric shares insights into the evolution of the drone industry, the challenges of educating clients about the value of drone services, and the distinct advantages and disadvantages of lidar versus photogrammetry. The discussion also touches on ground control points (GCPs) and real-time kinematics (RTKs), providing valuable perspectives for both seasoned professionals and those looking to enter the drone business.

About Eric Harkins

With a background in forestry and GIS, Eric Harkins has been a prominent figure in the drone industry for almost a decade. As the owner of Back Forty Aerial Solutions, Eric specializes in lidar, photogrammetry, and thermal imaging. His journey from a background in history to becoming a key player in the drone industry showcases the transformative power of emerging technologies. Eric's wealth of experience and practical advice make him a valuable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of the drone business.

Resources discussed in this episode:

Custom Drone Pads: customdronepads.com

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Next Episode

Business Franchise Development with Tanner Harris of Blue Nose Aerial Imaging

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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