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Background

Vigilant Aerospace Systems, Inc. is the leading developer of multi-sensor detect-and-avoid and airspace management software for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS or drones). Customers include NASA, the FAA, the U.S. Department of Defense and a variety of drone development programs. 

 

The Vigilant Aerospace Team

Kraettli L. Epperson
CEO, Vigilant Aerospace Systems
Kraettli is CEO of Vigilant Aerospace, the leading developer of multi-sensor detect-and-avoid and airspace management software for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS or drones). He oversees Vigilant Aerospace's contracts with NASA, the FAA and the US Air Force and has participated in over 45 uncrewed aircraft flight tests. He is a frequent speaker on uncrewed aircraft technology including detect-and-avoid (DAA) and autonomous systems and is a member of the FAA's BVLOS Aviation Rulemaking Committee and the ASTM F38 Committee on technical standards. He has co-authored multiple AIAA papers with NASA and Oklahoma State University on autonomy and collision avoidance systems and is the co-inventor of four technology patents.
Zach Peterson
Director of Business Development
Zach Peterson has experience in government, international, B2B, B2C and channel marketing and sales. His work history includes competitive strategy, minimum viable product (MVP) R&D, development of print and digital advertising, distributor and end-user market research, go-to-market strategy, design of tradeshow booths and sales fixtures, distribution logistics, and inside / outside sales and marketing team management. Zach received his M.B.A. from the University of Mary in 2008, chairs the Editorial Committee for the Fly-ND Aviation Quarterly, is the VP for the Northern Tier Chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), Secretary for the Great Plains Chapter of the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and Treasurer for the North Dakota UAS Council (NDUASC).
Jesse Smith
Senior Software Developer
Jesse is Vigilant’s Senior Software Developer and has more than 20 years of experience in software development. He has worked on large projects developing web service applications for the Department of Defense, programming financial software for the Bank of North Dakota and the ND State Treasury Department, as well as on projects for Fortune 500 companies like Sony EMG and Johnson & Johnson. This software developer has a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and a Minor in Statistics from Minot State University and continues to expand his knowledge base through online courses and certifications. Jesse has held Top Secret security clearance through work with a previous employer.
DeeAnn Butler
Business Manager
DeeAnn is a Business Manager and accomplished professional with more than 25 years of experience managing financials, budgets, business records, invoicing, accounts payable, contract and vendor management and office organization for multiple businesses. She currently manages finances, accounts, contracts, vendor relationships and other matters for Vigilant Aerospace. She has previously worked as a bookkeeper and reporting manager for multiple commercial and non-profit companies in logistics, healthcare and human services. She has also worked as a manuscript and presentation editor, providing translations between German and English. She holds a BA from Oral Roberts University and a Certificate in German from the Institute for Language in Hannover, Germany.
Kendyn Webster
Director of Operations at Vigilant Aerospace Systems
Kendyn is a retired US Army Military Police Captain with extensive leadership experience. He holds a BA in Mass Communication from the University of Central Oklahoma, and certifications in Full Stack Development and Project Management. During his decade-long military career, Kendyn held roles such as Police Team Supervisor and Security Operations Manager, leading logistics operations, risk assessments, and team management. His technical expertise includes web development, software development management and agile software development methods. At Vigilant Aerospace Systems, Kendyn leverages his military and technical background to bridge technical solutions and client expectations, fostering collaborative teams and ensuring effective project execution. His leadership and technical skills drive organizational success.

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