Michael Hill

Internationally recognized as a leading expert in advanced air mobility (AAM) technology, or “drones,” I currently serve as Program Manager for the USI @ Dallas College’s Aerospace Program. In this role, I combine my managerial expertise and advanced drone piloting skills to drive workforce development in the rapidly growing drone industry.

I oversee the implementation of the ASTM-certified USI curriculum across seven Dallas College campuses, ensuring high-quality, industry-relevant education, while working with key stakeholders to foster program growth, and create job placement opportunities to meet the evolving needs of the uncrewed aviation sector.

My career highlights include projects such as a cross-border UAV cargo operation for an automotive manufacturer and an offshore resupply mission for an oil and gas client. Additionally, I have provided UAV training, integration, and solutions to organizations and public safety agencies worldwide.

Certified as a UAV pilot in the US (FAA Part 107), UK (CAA RPAS), and Canada (TC RPAS), I have logged over 6,000 flight hours and completed more than 7,800 successful, incident-free missions as a Remote Pilot-in-Command. In 2021, I was named the Tech Titans Technology Advocate. I hold certifications from FEMA, FAA, OSHA, NIST, and USI, underscoring my dedication to industry standards and safety.

Beyond my corporate and educational roles, I have served as chairperson for the North Central Texas Council of Governments’ UAS Taskforce, Legislative & Policy Committee and have been appointed to the Texas HB2340-Public Safety UAS and Texas SB763-AAM Committees. In these roles, I have worked with policymakers to help shape UAV legislation in Texas.

As a Lieutenant and Director of Unmanned Operations for the Texas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, I became a certified Search and Rescue Drone Pilot, supporting FEMA missions nationwide. As Training Officer for the North Texas Public Safety Unmanned Response Team, I helped establish an operational presence and provided UAV flight training to law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency management teams.

A sought-after speaker and industry influencer, I regularly share my insights on UAV technology applications, including aerial mapping, telecommunications, wind turbine inspections, oil and gas sensing, critical infrastructure inspections, and search-and-rescue missions.

Through these efforts, I continue to shape the future of unmanned aviation on both a local and global scale.