Former AUVSI Executive Joins Drone Start Up

(Source: Forbes)  

Gretchen West, the former Executive Vice President of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) has joined DroneDeploy, a provider of commercial drone software. DroneDeploy will make the announcement of West’s appointment, today, at the Los Angeles Drone Expo. West is coming from AUVSI is the drone industry’s largest advocacy and lobbying group, at DroneDeploy, West will lead the company’s Business Development and Regulatory Affairs efforts.

West spent 10 years as a key advocate for unmanned systems. She managed AUVSI’s government affairs program, global business development efforts, and strategic planning and development of commercial markets. She also served as an industry spokesperson in the media, represented the UAS industry on the ICAO RPAS Panel and was a member of several other influential industry associations.

Drones face an uncertain regulatory environment, and many start ups and venture funders are beginning to realize that companies must employ experienced professionals who understand the regulatory environment, and can advocate for sensible regulations and help to shape the regulatory environment. West will work to lead DroneDeploy’s sales in an uncertain regulatory environment, not only in America, but across the globe. “I look forward to helping DroneDeploy grow globally, while ensuring that our current customers and partners reach optimal success as they continue their collaboration with us.” West said.

“We’re thrilled Gretchen will be joining our team,” said Winn, DroneDeploy CEO and Cofounder. “She shares our values and our focus on innovation, and brings unrivaled strategic, business development and regulatory experience, critical to helping us grow and serve our customers better.”

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