Drone Thought Leadership Summit

Mr. Marvin Haiman is an Assistant Professor and the Executive Director of Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia. He is also a Visiting Fellow and Research Scholar with Rutger’s University. Haiman served as the Chief of Staff for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. between 2021 and 2024. In this capacity, Haiman oversaw daily operations of the Executive Office of the Chief of Police and was responsible for broad agency management and implementing strategic agency objectives.

Haiman was responsible for several organizational units including the Office of Communications, Office of General Counsel, Office of Wellness and the Professional Development Bureau. He served as the Executive Director of the Professional Development Bureau between 2017 – 2021, leading the Recruiting Division, Metropolitan Police Academy Division, Human Resource Management Division, Disciplinary Review Division, Testing and Assessment Division, Equal Employment Opportunity Division, Office of Communications and the Strategic Engagement Office (Volunteer Services).

Prior to being named Executive Director, Haiman served in a variety of capacities between 2015-2017, including developing the agency’s Office of Volunteer Coordination, serving as Chief of Staff for the Technical Services Division tasked with a broad range of IT operations, and Chief of Staff for the Strategic Services Bureau supporting and leading the administration of police recruitment, training, policy and volunteer service matters for the Department.

Prior to returning to the Metropolitan Police Department, Haiman served as Director for the Homeland Security Advisory Council for the United States Department of Homeland Security, where he established several key task forces for the Secretary (e.g., Foreign Fighters, Integrity & Use of Force). Prior to his Federal service, Haiman led the Recruiting Division for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., among various other positions. Haiman was responsible for restructuring the sworn hiring process, decreasing the amount of time it took to process candidates while increasing the quality of those officers hired.

Haiman graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in management through the Police Executive Leadership Program. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa and received designation as a Certified Public Management Program through George Washington University, as well as certification in Strategic Project Management. Haiman is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security’s Executive Leadership Program. He received recognition by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2020 as a 40 under 40 recipient and the prestigious Gary P. Hayes Award by the Police Executive Research Forum. Haiman graduated from the Metropolitan Police Academy and continues his police service as a reserve police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department. Haiman resides with his family in Washington, D.C.

Center for Public Safety and Justice Advisory Board Member
2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.) has served 50 years in public safety. Charles served 37 years with the Charlottesville VA Fire Department; during the last ten years of that service, he was fire chief. Charles has had many leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level. He presently serves as Founder/Director for DRONERESPONDERS: with over 11,000 members that includes participation from 92 countries, DRONERESPONDERS has become the largest and leading nonprofit program to advance public safety UAS that focused on drones for good (countering UAS, UTM and AAM). Charles also serves as a public safety representative on the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance. In 2023, Charles joined the Virginia Department of Aviation as aviation technology advisor to work in the public safety areas of UAS, CUAS and AAM. 

Center for Public Safety and Justice Advisory Board Member
2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.) has served 50 years in public safety. Charles served 37 years with the Charlottesville VA Fire Department; during the last ten years of that service, he was fire chief. Charles has had many leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level. He presently serves as Founder/Director for DRONERESPONDERS: with over 11,000 members that includes participation from 92 countries, DRONERESPONDERS has become the largest and leading nonprofit program to advance public safety UAS that focused on drones for good (countering UAS, UTM and AAM). Charles also serves as a public safety representative on the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance. In 2023, Charles joined the Virginia Department of Aviation as aviation technology advisor to work in the public safety areas of UAS, CUAS and AAM. 

Mr. Marvin Haiman is an Assistant Professor and the Executive Director of Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia. He is also a Visiting Fellow and Research Scholar with Rutger’s University. Haiman served as the Chief of Staff for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. between 2021 and 2024. In this capacity, Haiman oversaw daily operations of the Executive Office of the Chief of Police and was responsible for broad agency management and implementing strategic agency objectives.

Haiman was responsible for several organizational units including the Office of Communications, Office of General Counsel, Office of Wellness and the Professional Development Bureau. He served as the Executive Director of the Professional Development Bureau between 2017 – 2021, leading the Recruiting Division, Metropolitan Police Academy Division, Human Resource Management Division, Disciplinary Review Division, Testing and Assessment Division, Equal Employment Opportunity Division, Office of Communications and the Strategic Engagement Office (Volunteer Services).

Prior to being named Executive Director, Haiman served in a variety of capacities between 2015-2017, including developing the agency’s Office of Volunteer Coordination, serving as Chief of Staff for the Technical Services Division tasked with a broad range of IT operations, and Chief of Staff for the Strategic Services Bureau supporting and leading the administration of police recruitment, training, policy and volunteer service matters for the Department.

Prior to returning to the Metropolitan Police Department, Haiman served as Director for the Homeland Security Advisory Council for the United States Department of Homeland Security, where he established several key task forces for the Secretary (e.g., Foreign Fighters, Integrity & Use of Force). Prior to his Federal service, Haiman led the Recruiting Division for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., among various other positions. Haiman was responsible for restructuring the sworn hiring process, decreasing the amount of time it took to process candidates while increasing the quality of those officers hired.

Haiman graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in management through the Police Executive Leadership Program. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa and received designation as a Certified Public Management Program through George Washington University, as well as certification in Strategic Project Management. Haiman is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security’s Executive Leadership Program. He received recognition by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2020 as a 40 under 40 recipient and the prestigious Gary P. Hayes Award by the Police Executive Research Forum. Haiman graduated from the Metropolitan Police Academy and continues his police service as a reserve police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department. Haiman resides with his family in Washington, D.C.

Scott is a veteran public safety leader with over 35 years of experience in fire, EMS, and emergency management. Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of Operations for the Charlottesville Fire Department, he oversees strategic planning, emergency response, interagency coordination, and operational readiness. His leadership has guided the department through critical initiatives, including the negotiations of the departments first organized labor agreement, the deployment of a single role EMS service and the development of an Emergency Services Master Plan.

Scott began his career in 1989 as a volunteer and rose through the ranks in both volunteer and career service. He has held key roles as a volunteer Fire Chief, Battalion Chief of Professional Standards, Training Captain, and Incident Commander during complex regional emergencies. His expertise spans incident management, hazardous materials, workforce development, community risk reduction, and the integration of new technologies such as drones in public safety operations.

Scott holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership through Waldorf University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration from Virginia Tech. Scott also serves as an instructor and mentor, committed to growing the next generation of emergency service professionals. His decades of service reflect a lifelong dedication to protecting communities through innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence.

Captain English began his law enforcement career in 1999 with the Chula Vista Police Department. Over 25 years, he has built a distinguished career through diverse assignments and leadership roles, with expertise in patrol, investigations, and administration.

He has served as a Patrol Officer, Gang Suppression Officer and Agent, Family Protection Detective, FBI Task Force Officer, and Background Investigator. His leadership roles include Patrol Sergeant, Training Sergeant, Professional Standards Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, and Strategic Operations Lieutenant.

In 2025, Captain English was promoted to his current position and currently leads the Community Engagement Division, overseeing the Traffic Unit, Community Relations, Homeless Outreach, Street Team Gang Unit, School Resource Officers, and the department’s world-renowned Drone as First Responder Program.

His collateral duties have included Canine Program Manager, Use of Force Coordinator, and Crisis Negotiator. He also led the Crisis Negotiations Team as Supervisor and Team Commander.

Captain English holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from San Diego State University and is finishing his Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego. While attending the University of San Diego, Captain English received the Phillip Collum Award for Leadership and Academic excellence. His academic achievements also include graduating from the California POST Management Course and California POST Command College (Class 72), where his article, “How Teleoperated Robotics Will Change Patrol Response,” was published by Police1.com. He is also a certified FAA Part 107 drone pilot.

His service has been recognized with the Medal of Life Saving, the John H. Glover Medal of Heroism, and the American Legion Medal of Valor, honoring his courage and commitment to public safety. Captain English enjoys spending time with his family and friends, oil painting, reading, and hanging out with his dog.

Deputy Chief Michael Lighthiser commands the Special Operations, Research and Training Division of the George Mason University Police Department. Deputy Chief Lighthiser has served with the department since January 2008, is a DCJS certified instructor and a graduate of the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command. Deputy Chief Lighthiser has commanded the department’s Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit since its inception in January of 2018 and is the chair of the Northern Virginia Emergency Response System (NVERS) UAS working group. Deputy Chief Lighthiser sits on the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments UAS group, and is one of the founding members of the statewide UAS working group in Virginia, focused on advising elected officials on UAS information and legislative changes. As commander of the GMUPD UAS Unit, Deputy Chief Lighthiser has overseen operations with the United State Coast Guard, United State Marshals Service, numerous public safety missions in the region including coordinating the UAS operations during the Marine Corps Marathon and established a Memorandum of Understanding with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. Deputy Chief Lighthiser is on the Law Enforcement Drone Association Steering Committee and a member of the DRONERESPONDERS Advisory Board.

DJ Smith has worked in the area of Covert Technical/Tactical Surveillance for over 30 years and currently serves as a Senior Technical Surveillance Agent for the Virginia State Police.  A few areas of specialty are Covert Surreptitious Audio/Video deployments, Title III Intercepts, GPS Installs, Video-Audio Clarification, Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM), Mesh-Node Deployments, Surreptitious Lock Bypass & Safe Penetration including GSA locks & containers, Technical Response to Hostage/Barricade Situations, Cellular Tracking and Geo-locating (DF), and sUAS & Counter UAS deployment operations to name a few.

In the area of sUAS and Counter UAS Operations:

• Deputy Director for DroneResponders Public Safety UAS Alliance for CUAS.
• Served on the Federal Aviation Administration CUAS Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC).
• Served on the Virginia Safe and Secure Commonwealth Sub-Panel dealing with UAS/Counter UAS implementation and legislative issues for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• 2024 Keynote Presenter on CUAS for SLTT at the World Police Summit in Dubai
• Currently he serves as an advisor to Congressional House & Senate Judicial committees on SLTT CUAS policy.
• Served as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on various drone & CUAS technologies for the DHS CUAS PMO office.
• As a representative of the Virginia State Police, he is a stakeholder on the Mid-Atlantic UAS Partnership group (Google Wing) at Virginia Tech for Commercial/Enterprise UAS deliveries.
• He has served on the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate First Responder Robotic Operational System Test (FFROST) assessment & evaluations of sUAS for Public Safety.
• Served on the DHS Blue UAS assessment for SLTT public safety.
• He has presented and moderated discussions at: Government Business Executive Forum & Security Summit, Annual Norway Security Summit, Semi-Annual Counter UAS Summit in Washington DC, AUVSI Xponential, Commercial UAV Expo, Annual CUAS Systems Congress, Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, and various agencies across the US & around the world.
• He also provides technical advice to various legislative groups in Washington, DC assisting in getting the legislative carve-outs for SLTT public safety agencies to obtain Advanced Detection and sUAS mitigation authority.
• International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP) Drone & CUAS policy advisor.
• He is also licensed part 107 pilot and has been flying sUAS for over 13 years.

Miriam McNabb is a seasoned drone industry expert and media executive with over two decades of experience in high-tech sales, marketing, and journalism. She holds a degree from the University of Chicago.

As Editor‑in‑Chief of DRONELIFE.com, Miriam oversees editorial content and has authored thousands of articles covering drone regulations, commercial applications, financial trends, and industry innovation.

She is also the CEO of JobForDrones, a marketplace connecting drone professionals and employers, and serves as Principal at Spalding Barker Strategies, advising tech startups on market strategy and growth across the U.S. and internationally.

Police Officer since 1997. Assignments include Patrol, Bike Patrol, Computer Forensics, and Police Information Technology. Police Department sUAS Coordinator and Tact Team Auxiliary Coordinator. Since 2021, manage a fleet of 36 pelican case Patrol-Led deployment drones with 20 Drone as a First Responder (DFR) drone docks in place by end of 2025. I have worked with the FAA through several Certificate of Authorizations (COA’s) to include getting Oklahoma City one of the first City-Wide No Visual Observers COA’s (620 Sq Miles).

Timothy Doyle has been dedicated to public safety since 2000 where he began with volunteer service in Prince Georges County, MD. Transitioning in 2005 to a career as  Firefighter/Enhanced with in Norfolk, Virginia and later transitioned into the Fire Marshalls office. He is a certified Hazardous Device Technician, Tactical Bomb Technician, Hazardous Materials Specialist, Technical Rescue Technician, Emergency Medical Technician, and Public Safety Diver. Tim led the development of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Unit for Norfolk Police and Fire and served as the sUAS program coordinator for Norfolk Fire and Police UAS Program.    He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and serves on the board of advisors for the Public Safety Innovation Center with VIPC.

Captain Abrem Ayana serves as the Commander of Innovation, Technology, and Special Projects at the Brookhaven (GA) Police Department. He has led award-winning teams across Patrol, Investigations, and Administration, and is widely recognized for his leadership in law enforcement technology integration.

Captain Ayana spearheaded the launch of the nation’s second Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, with the BPD UAS Team logging over 8,500 flights and covering 7,000+ miles. His expertise in DFR operations has made him a sought-after speaker at local, state, and international forums. He also led the implementation of Brookhaven’s Mental Health Co-Responder Program and Real-Time Operations Center, expanding the department’s capacity for proactive, data-informed policing.

In 2024, Captain Ayana led a drone deployment team to support emergency response efforts following Hurricane Helene in Asheville, NC—providing disaster mapping, aerial overwatch, and tactical support.

He is the recipient of numerous honors, including BPD Supervisor of the Year (2019, 2022), the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police Supervisor of the Year (Metro Atlanta, 2022), and the 2024 Eric Talley Memorial Award from DRONERESPONDERS for excellence in public safety drone operations.

Police Officer since 1997. Assignments include Patrol, Bike Patrol, Computer Forensics, and Police Information Technology. Police Department sUAS Coordinator and Tact Team Auxiliary Coordinator. Since 2021, manage a fleet of 36 pelican case Patrol-Led deployment drones with 20 Drone as a First Responder (DFR) drone docks in place by end of 2025. I have worked with the FAA through several Certificate of Authorizations (COA’s) to include getting Oklahoma City one of the first City-Wide No Visual Observers COA’s (620 Sq Miles).

Gordon Folkes III is the Founder and President/CEO of Archer First Response Systems (a Madison Industries company), which provides 911-integrated emergency drone delivery infrastructure for transporting time-critical medical supplies directly to 911 callers.

Since founding ArcherFRS in 2014, Gordon has been at the forefront of the sUAS industry, pioneering technologies and policies that have shaped emergency drone delivery in the United States. Under his leadership, ArcherFRS has achieved several firsts:

• Launched the nation’s first 911-integrated emergency drone delivery operations in Florida.

• Served as the first remote PIC to complete the F3322-22 ASTM parachute recovery system standard (on the Freefly AltaX).

• Led ArcherFRS to become the first drone deployment company with prioritized LTE/C2 connectivity on AT&T FirstNet.

• Played a key role in ensuring Public Aircraft Operations statutes enable — rather than restrict — public safety delivery missions.

Today, ArcherFRS technology is integrated into more than 5,000 Emergency Communications Centers nationwide, with live deployments across multiple Florida counties. Gordon’s work has led to partnerships with industry leaders including Raytheon, AT&T, RapidSOS, Freefly Systems, Drone Rescue Systems and others, and his expertise has been sought by policymakers, public safety agencies, and national media.

An FAA Part 107-certified pilot with over 800 hours of flight operations on heavy-lift small unmanned aircraft, Gordon combines deep technical knowledge with a passion for using technology to save lives.

Commander Jason Cokinos currently serves as the 3rd District Commander (Silver Spring) for Montgomery County MD Police Department. Commander Cokinos oversees 166 officers and is responsible for all police operations within a mostly urban environment of 31.9 square miles serving a diverse population of over 160,000 residents. Commander Cokinos led the creation and implementation of the MCPD Drone as First Responder (DFR) program and continues to serve as one of the program leads through its expansion. Commander Cokinos' former command at Special Operations included SWAT, K9, Emergency Services, Crisis Negotiators, Special Events, and the Air Support Unit which encompasses the Patrol/Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program and the DFR program. Captain Cokinos has served in Law Enforcement for almost 20 years and possesses a master’s degree in leadership and management. Captain Cokinos is also a graduate of the PERF SMIP program and the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command.

Director Ryan Kao focuses on developing public safety strategy with Skydio’s law enforcement partners, including establishing Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, throughout the United States. Prior to joining Skydio, Director Kao served as Director of Crime Strategies for the San Francisco Police Department, where he supervised the Department’s crime analysts and developed crime reduction and prevention strategies for the San Francisco Bay Area. Many of those crime strategies included pioneering law enforcement and commercial technologies, including a 400-camera stationary ALPR system, the first citywide public safety sensor system in San Francisco, and a prototype oral fluid testing device that detects fentanyl in saliva. Director Kao has also served as an Assistant District Attorney for the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office where he prosecuted a wide range of cases, including robbery, burglary, aggravated assault, and homicide. He is recognized as an expert on firearms and was embedded in the Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC), where he worked with a team of SFPD officers and ATF agents to remove armed and dangerous criminals from the community. He also specialized in DUI enforcement, particularly drug-impaired DUI and vehicular manslaughter, including cross-training as a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) and receiving the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Outstanding Prosecutor Award for his work.

DJ Smith has worked in the area of Covert Technical/Tactical Surveillance for over 30 years and currently serves as a Senior Technical Surveillance Agent for the Virginia State Police.  A few areas of specialty are Covert Surreptitious Audio/Video deployments, Title III Intercepts, GPS Installs, Video-Audio Clarification, Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM), Mesh-Node Deployments, Surreptitious Lock Bypass & Safe Penetration including GSA locks & containers, Technical Response to Hostage/Barricade Situations, Cellular Tracking and Geo-locating (DF), and sUAS & Counter UAS deployment operations to name a few.

In the area of sUAS and Counter UAS Operations:

• Deputy Director for DroneResponders Public Safety UAS Alliance for CUAS.
• Served on the Federal Aviation Administration CUAS Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC).
• Served on the Virginia Safe and Secure Commonwealth Sub-Panel dealing with UAS/Counter UAS implementation and legislative issues for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• 2024 Keynote Presenter on CUAS for SLTT at the World Police Summit in Dubai
• Currently he serves as an advisor to Congressional House & Senate Judicial committees on SLTT CUAS policy.
• Served as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on various drone & CUAS technologies for the DHS CUAS PMO office.
• As a representative of the Virginia State Police, he is a stakeholder on the Mid-Atlantic UAS Partnership group (Google Wing) at Virginia Tech for Commercial/Enterprise UAS deliveries.
• He has served on the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate First Responder Robotic Operational System Test (FFROST) assessment & evaluations of sUAS for Public Safety.
• Served on the DHS Blue UAS assessment for SLTT public safety.
• He has presented and moderated discussions at: Government Business Executive Forum & Security Summit, Annual Norway Security Summit, Semi-Annual Counter UAS Summit in Washington DC, AUVSI Xponential, Commercial UAV Expo, Annual CUAS Systems Congress, Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, and various agencies across the US & around the world.
• He also provides technical advice to various legislative groups in Washington, DC assisting in getting the legislative carve-outs for SLTT public safety agencies to obtain Advanced Detection and sUAS mitigation authority.
• International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP) Drone & CUAS policy advisor.
• He is also licensed part 107 pilot and has been flying sUAS for over 13 years.

Paige Fitzgerald is the Deputy Director of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA).  She obtained her Part 107 certificate in September 2016 and became the agency UAS Program Administrator at that time.  She has taught Part 107 test prep and flight instruction courses since 2017 as the UAS Training Director for Adam Ringle Consulting and the Delaware State Fire School, and began teaching Drone Assessment and Response Tactics (DART) through Avian and New Mexico Tech in 2019.  Paige also served as the Chair of the State of Delaware UAS Training & Certification Steering Committee from 2018-2019, contributed to the State Counter Drone Working Group from 2019-2022, and recently oversaw the transformation of that group into the State of Delaware Airspace Management Working Group in 2023. 

She has trained hundreds of UAS pilots nationally and has provided aerial support for multiple large scale incidents from disaster damage assessments and site assessments to law enforcement incidents and fire scenes. She has worked to better integrate drone technology with other situational awareness tools across the state, helping to make them a key asset throughout the Delaware response community.  In addition to her emergency management and UAS experience, Paige has a Master of Science in Disaster Science and Management from the University of Delaware Disaster Research Center and is a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) through the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM). She is a co-Chair of the newly founded Women DRONERESPONDERS and on the DRONERESPONDERS Board of Advisors.

Captain Michael Leo is a seasoned veteran with 24 years of dedicated service in the New York City Fire Department. Currently serving as the program administrator of FDNY Robotics, Captain Leo plays a pivotal role in advancing technological solutions within the department. 

Jeff is the Fire Chief of the Scappoose Fire District. Scappoose Fire provides comprehensive fire, ambulance, wildland, community risk reduction and special operations services, ensuring community safety and preparedness.

Scappoose Fire has a comprehensive Special Operations program, that incorporates swiftwater and rope rescue, marine firefighting, REMS, and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) technology.

Jeff serves in key leadership positions within the drone sector. He serves as Vice President of the Cascade Chapter of Association of Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Vice Chair of the IAFF/IAFC Robotics Workgroup, Steering committee member with the Law Enforcement Drone Association (LEDA), and holds a position on the board of advisors with Drone Responders. Additionally, he's a Governor-appointed member of the Oregon Department of Aviation board and serves as the voting member for the International Association of Fire Chiefs on the National Wildfire Coordinating Group Interagency Fire UAS subcommittee. He is also part of a team that will be delivering a UAS Instructor Train-The_Trainer at the National fire Academy.

Beyond his role at Scappoose Fire, Jeff serves as a Safety Officer on a federal Complex Incident Management Team, spent 24 years as a Safety Officer with a federal Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT), actively volunteers with the Hood River Crag Rats mountain rescue team, and led the development of the regional UAS program within the Regional Disaster Preparedness Organization (RDPO). He also chairs the RDPO Fire & EMS workgroup, coordinating 35 regional fire agencies. He is also a co-author of Wildland Firefighter: Principles and Practice.

Commander Jason Cokinos currently serves as the 3rd District Commander (Silver Spring) for Montgomery County MD Police Department. Commander Cokinos oversees 166 officers and is responsible for all police operations within a mostly urban environment of 31.9 square miles serving a diverse population of over 160,000 residents. Commander Cokinos led the creation and implementation of the MCPD Drone as First Responder (DFR) program and continues to serve as one of the program leads through its expansion. Commander Cokinos' former command at Special Operations included SWAT, K9, Emergency Services, Crisis Negotiators, Special Events, and the Air Support Unit which encompasses the Patrol/Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program and the DFR program. Captain Cokinos has served in Law Enforcement for almost 20 years and possesses a master’s degree in leadership and management. Captain Cokinos is also a graduate of the PERF SMIP program and the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command.

Pending biography

Chief Fields has served the Los Angeles City Fire Department for 31 years, promoting through the ranks. For the last 12 years as an officer, Chief Fields has successfully developed and executed elements of three fire department strategic plans by leading key projects and initiatives such as the Department’s Learning Management System, Unmanned Aerial System program, and Rosenbauer Electric Fire Engine. Chief Fields has received a master’s degree in Homeland Security and Defense from the Naval Postgraduate School and holds a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Emergency Services Management. He is not only a graduate of the LAFD Leadership Academy, but also serves as a facilitator for the program. An advocate of personal and professional development, his leadership and mentoring efforts are dedicated to the equity, diversity, and inclusion of all members in advancing the future leaders of this department. Chief Fields has represented the department on special projects, committees and working groups at the local, state, and national level. He is known for his leadership, operational experience, and administrative skillsets.

Michelle Duquette is a seasoned Aviation Executive Strategist with extensive experience bridging engineering and operations within the aviation ecosystem. With a robust background in the airline industry and over 20 years of strategic advisory roles for the federal government, Michelle brings a broad and operationally deep perspective to her work. 

As the Founder of 3 MAD Air, Michelle leverages her expertise to consult on UAS and Advanced Air Mobility operations, civil-military integration, and public-private partnerships. She focuses on transforming complex challenges into actionable solutions through collaboration, risk mitigation, issue facilitation, and developing compelling narratives. Michelle excels at operationalizing missions to achieve results, driving regulatory strategy, operational excellence, and innovative solutions. 

Previously, Michelle was a Senior Principal at The MITRE Corporation, leading a multi-million dollar research portfolio spanning drone and AAM risk assessment, technical efficiencies for the FAA, aerospace forecasting, security vulnerabilities analysis, and cross-federal agency UAS integration harmonization. Her role involved delivering objective counsel to FAA and DOD executives, facilitating government-industry collaboration, and guiding the industry through the evolving FAA approval landscape. 

Michelle's career began as an Aircraft Dispatcher at CommuteAir dba USAir Express and Federal Express, where she developed custom flight following systems, developed and administered training curriculum, and contributed to corporate operational transitions. Her professional affiliations include serving on Advisory Boards, including DRONERESPONDERS serving the Public Safety community and the XPONENTIAL Executive Steering Committee for the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International. 

Michelle is a motivator and leader known for her persistence, intuition, operational creativity, and ability to navigate difficult conversations. She continues to drive strategic partnerships and innovative solutions within the aviation industry.

Center for Public Safety and Justice Advisory Board Member
2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.) has served 50 years in public safety. Charles served 37 years with the Charlottesville VA Fire Department; during the last ten years of that service, he was fire chief. Charles has had many leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level. He presently serves as Founder/Director for DRONERESPONDERS: with over 11,000 members that includes participation from 92 countries, DRONERESPONDERS has become the largest and leading nonprofit program to advance public safety UAS that focused on drones for good (countering UAS, UTM and AAM). Charles also serves as a public safety representative on the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance. In 2023, Charles joined the Virginia Department of Aviation as aviation technology advisor to work in the public safety areas of UAS, CUAS and AAM. 

John is an Aviation Safety Analyst in the Aviation Safety Line of Business, Office of Flight Standards, Emerging Technologies Division, Commercial and General Aviation Safety Branch, located at FAA Headquarters in Washington, DC.  John’s role is to provide technical support, subject matter expertise, and UAS related outreach support to the general aviation UAS flying public, and to provide UAS specific training and support to FAA Flight Standards District Offices and FAASTeam Program Managers.   He also assists in the development of UAS concepts, policies, standards, procedures and guidance related to the safe integration of UAS into the NAS. 

John is a graduate of West Point and former US Army Helicopter Instructor Pilot and served just over 5 years in the Army as an Aviation Officer before getting his MBA from Boston College.  His civilian career has been mostly with private industry, in International Sales and General Management positions.  He has worked at three Aircraft Manufacturing companies and run Fixed Base Operations at Stewart Airport in New York and Washington Dulles Airport in Virginia. Prior to joining the FAA, John was the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Global Sales at Wyvern Ltd, an aviation risk management company based in Yardley, PA.

John holds a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument rating rotary wing, a Private Pilot Rating with Instrument rating, single engine land airplane, and a UAS Remote Pilot Certificate. 

John is a model railroader, attempting to recreate nostalgia of the New York Central RR, where his grandfather was a steam locomotive fireman and engineer, and is a Lacrosse fanatic.

John is married and the proud father of two sons, both recent graduates of Service Academies, and both serving on active duty in their respective services.

Mr. Fleming recently retired after being employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for over thirty-nine years, as the Airspace Security Manager of the System Operations Support Center (SOSC). Described as the “Preeminent TFR Authority in the U.S.” by multiple former FAA executives, Mr. Fleming oversaw his group’s rapid expansion in the TFR workspace. Mr. Fleming’s team was the sole governmental legal authority to authorize emergency certificates of authorization (COAs) and Special Governmental Interest (SGI) airspace waivers, including BVLOS and DFR operations to support law enforcement, fire response, utility, media and insurance company UAS operations during emergency situations.

Mr. Fleming was the concept creator and program manager for the upcoming Sporting Event Automated Monitoring System (SEAMS) that will be utilized by LAANC and the B4UFLY apps to show real-time airspace restrictions around major sporting events (I.e. MLB, NFL, NCAA football, NASCAR, and IndyCar). 

He is a principal in the aviation consulting firm, UAS LLC, which provides consulting services for public safety, utility companies, media, government and commercial industry operators. Kerry is a board member of the non-profit organization, Drone Responders, which serves as an advocate for the public safety use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).  UAS LLC offers the most prominent UAS subject matter experts with decades of extensive FAA experience. UAS LLC services include but not limited to; event airspace management for sporting events and mass gatherings, COA/SGI/COW training, program management, procurement counsel, DFR and BVLOS program expansion, and general aviation operations.

Kristina Tanasichuk founded the Government Technology & Services Coalition in 2011 after several small business CEOs approached her about how they could band together to work with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She has grown the Coalition to over 220 companies and is responsible for the growth, content, strategy and day to day operations. In 2017, Tanasichuk bought Homeland Security Today magazine and media platform and as Executive Editor, quickly transformed the publication into the “must-read” source of information for the homeland security community. In 2022 she acquired the AIM Council and the FITGov Summit.

She has over 20 years of lobbying and advocacy experience on behalf of non-profit associations and coalitions on Capitol Hill and with Federal agencies.

Tanasichuk served as President and on the Board of the InfraGard National Capital Members Alliance, a public-private partnership with the FBI, and is the president and founder of Women in Homeland Security, a professional development organization for women in the field of homeland security that has grown to nearly 4500 members. She also co-founded and served for two years as executive director of the American Security Challenge, an event that awards monetary and contractual awards in excess of $3.5 million to emerging security technology firms.

Tanasichuk began her career in homeland security shortly after September 11, 2001 while at the American Public Works Association where she managed homeland security and emergency management issues before Congress and the Administration.  She worked on first responder issues, critical infrastructure protection, water, transportation, utility and public building security. Prior to that she worked on critical infrastructure and electric utility deregulation and domestic energy issues for a boutique lobbying firm and as professional staff for the Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Energy & Commerce, Tom Bliley. Tanasichuk has also worked at the American Enterprise Institute, several Washington, D.C. associations representing both the public and private sectors, and the White House under President George H.W. Bush.

She also contributes to numerous charities and organizations supporting the homeland community.  Tanasichuk served on the U.S. Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Board,  as a trustee on the Coast Guard Enlisted Memorial Foundation, as a Board Member of the Fairfax County Law Enforcement Foundation, and sponsor of the INLETS – the INtel Law Enforcement Training Seminar.

She is a graduate of St. Olaf College and earned her Master’s in Public Administration from George Mason University. She has also graduated from both the FBI and DEA Citizens’ Academies and the Marine Corps Executive Forum.  Honors include the INLETS “Above & Beyond Award” (2x) for service to the law enforcement community, Small Business Partner of the Year (GTSC) on behalf of the U.S. Department of Treasury, the AFCEA International Small Business Person of the Year (2016), “Woman of Excellence” by HERLIFE magazine, nominated as Hottest Friend of the Entrepreneur by the Northern Virginia Technology Council, honored by the National Association of Woman Owned Businesses as a Distinguished Woman of the Year Finalist and nominated by the USCG for U.S. Coast Guard Spouse of the Year.

Chris Sadler retired as the Deputy Chief/Deputy Director of the York County (VA) Department of Fire and Life Safety after a 35-year career and now serves as the Director of the Public Safety Innovation Center for the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation. In his current role, he collaborates with technology developers, public safety agencies, and federal partners to integrate advanced technology into first responder capabilities. He is deeply involved in the public safety integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems and low-level detection and mitigation efforts. Chris has assisted many public safety and government agencies around the Country with the establishment of their UAS program, FAA COA applications and waivers, standard operating procedures development, and more.

Andrew Waters is in his 33rd year of Fire and EMS in the Commonwealth of Virginia, with the last 26 years serving the community of York County.  Andrew is presently the Assistant Chief of Technical Services and Special Operations.  He is responsible for all special teams, special projects, facilities, and apparatus.  As the Special Operations Chief, he serves as the UAS Program Manager for our ROVER or Remotely Operated Vehicles for Emergency Response Team.  Andrew has a significant background in Health and Safety,  technical rescue,  and has been a practicing Paramedic for nearly 30 years.

Mr. Marvin Haiman is an Assistant Professor and the Executive Director of Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia. He is also a Visiting Fellow and Research Scholar with Rutger’s University. Haiman served as the Chief of Staff for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. between 2021 and 2024. In this capacity, Haiman oversaw daily operations of the Executive Office of the Chief of Police and was responsible for broad agency management and implementing strategic agency objectives.

Haiman was responsible for several organizational units including the Office of Communications, Office of General Counsel, Office of Wellness and the Professional Development Bureau. He served as the Executive Director of the Professional Development Bureau between 2017 – 2021, leading the Recruiting Division, Metropolitan Police Academy Division, Human Resource Management Division, Disciplinary Review Division, Testing and Assessment Division, Equal Employment Opportunity Division, Office of Communications and the Strategic Engagement Office (Volunteer Services).

Prior to being named Executive Director, Haiman served in a variety of capacities between 2015-2017, including developing the agency’s Office of Volunteer Coordination, serving as Chief of Staff for the Technical Services Division tasked with a broad range of IT operations, and Chief of Staff for the Strategic Services Bureau supporting and leading the administration of police recruitment, training, policy and volunteer service matters for the Department.

Prior to returning to the Metropolitan Police Department, Haiman served as Director for the Homeland Security Advisory Council for the United States Department of Homeland Security, where he established several key task forces for the Secretary (e.g., Foreign Fighters, Integrity & Use of Force). Prior to his Federal service, Haiman led the Recruiting Division for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., among various other positions. Haiman was responsible for restructuring the sworn hiring process, decreasing the amount of time it took to process candidates while increasing the quality of those officers hired.

Haiman graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in management through the Police Executive Leadership Program. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa and received designation as a Certified Public Management Program through George Washington University, as well as certification in Strategic Project Management. Haiman is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security’s Executive Leadership Program. He received recognition by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2020 as a 40 under 40 recipient and the prestigious Gary P. Hayes Award by the Police Executive Research Forum. Haiman graduated from the Metropolitan Police Academy and continues his police service as a reserve police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department. Haiman resides with his family in Washington, D.C.

Center for Public Safety and Justice Advisory Board Member
2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.) has served 50 years in public safety. Charles served 37 years with the Charlottesville VA Fire Department; during the last ten years of that service, he was fire chief. Charles has had many leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level. He presently serves as Founder/Director for DRONERESPONDERS: with over 11,000 members that includes participation from 92 countries, DRONERESPONDERS has become the largest and leading nonprofit program to advance public safety UAS that focused on drones for good (countering UAS, UTM and AAM). Charles also serves as a public safety representative on the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance. In 2023, Charles joined the Virginia Department of Aviation as aviation technology advisor to work in the public safety areas of UAS, CUAS and AAM. 

Lisa Ellman chairs the Global Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Group at the global law firm Hogan Lovells, where she’s a leading public policy lawyer focusing on domestic drones, advanced air mobility (AAM) and other emerging technologies.  She also founded and serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Commercial Drone Alliance, an independent non-profit organization led by key figures of the commercial drone industry. Lisa is widely recognized as one of the “world’s foremost authorities on drones and law.” Lisa’s focus is safely expanding the commercial drone and AAM industries. She also focuses on UAS security efforts.

Throughout her career, Lisa has worked to bridge government policymaking and business innovation. Lisa has held a variety of positions at top levels of the executive branch at the White House and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Lisa's opinions are often featured in publications and news broadcasts such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, Associated Press, Fortune Magazine and others. She also regularly testifies to Congress on UAS-related legislation and policy. Lisa was featured in Fortune magazine's "Most Powerful Women" series for her efforts to develop policy to govern drone use in the United States. Lisa was also named Financial Times’ Most Innovative Practitioner of 2022 for North America.

Liz is a seasoned policy leader with a proven track record in coalition-building, aviation policymaking, and enabling new entrants. As the Policy Director for the Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA), Liz works as a passionate advocate across the commercial drone industry, building bridges between industry and policymakers to advance the domestic policy environment. Concurrently, as a Policy Advisor within the Global UAS Practice at Hogan Lovells, Liz helps clients make their safety case to federal regulators in pursuit of the broader regulatory changes needed to better enable new aviation technologies to scale.

Prior to joining the CDA, Liz held key roles at the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) UAS Integration Office and most recently, the Office of Rulemaking. During her time at the FAA, Liz played a key role in advancing drone and emerging entrant integration policy, providing strategic advice on regulatory decisions and building bridges between FAA leadership and technical subject matter experts both within the FAA and the commercial drone industry. She has been central to the development and interagency coordination process to every major drone-related policy and regulatory action the FAA has taken and has in-depth understanding of federal regulatory processes and requirements. 
 
In addition to her more than ten years with the FAA, Liz served as an aviation subject matter expert to the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, helping aviation subcommittee staff draft, negotiate, and successfully pass the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. Liz led the development of four titles within the bill, successfully balancing competing stakeholder priorities around safety, regulatory burden, and agency costs for myriad provisions related to aviation safety, new airspace entrants, airport noise, organizational reform, and general aviation. Liz also provided direct support to committee leadership in garnering member and stakeholder support for the final bill.  

Liz graduated with her Masters in International Relations and Economics from the Johns Hopkins University School for Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and earned her B.A. from the College of William and Mary.

Miriam McNabb is a seasoned drone industry expert and media executive with over two decades of experience in high-tech sales, marketing, and journalism. She holds a degree from the University of Chicago.

As Editor‑in‑Chief of DRONELIFE.com, Miriam oversees editorial content and has authored thousands of articles covering drone regulations, commercial applications, financial trends, and industry innovation.

She is also the CEO of JobForDrones, a marketplace connecting drone professionals and employers, and serves as Principal at Spalding Barker Strategies, advising tech startups on market strategy and growth across the U.S. and internationally.

Mr. Goldenberg, President of Cardinal Point Strategies, Senior Fellow at Rutgers University, and Distinguished Visiting Fellow for Transnational Security for University of Ottawa is a highly decorated 30- year criminal justice and global security professional recognized by America’s leading national security publication as the Most Influential Person in Homeland Security for 2021. At the request of the United States Secretary of DHS, Mr. Goldenberg led several highly sensitive national commissions, such as the 2019 Subcommittee for the Prevention of Targeted Violence Against Faith Based Communities, where many of the recommendations were adopted by US Congress for implementation. He additionally chaired the DHS National Cyber Security and Foreign Fighter Task Forces. During Europe’s recent wave of terror attacks, senior police officials from the UK, Sweden, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, and France, requested his guidance for the purpose of building capacity between vulnerable communities and national police. Mr. Goldenberg and his team worked on the ground across Europe during and following the Charlie Hebdo attacks. His public career includes more than two decades as a former senior official for the New Jersey State Attorney General’s Office, Commissioner/Director of the nation’s 6th largest social service and juvenile justice system, and as principal law enforcement officer heading investigation efforts for nationally renowned cases of domestic terrorism, hate crimes, political corruption, and organized crime. His law enforcement experience included serving five years as a deep undercover agent for the South Florida Strike Force where he often operated out of hostile environments and carried out complex assignments, including the infiltration of organized crime cartels engaged in gun trafficking and stolen vehicles. For his efforts, Paul was recipient of Florida’s most distinguished law enforcement medal for valor: Officer of the Year. His on-the-ground works led to the prosecution and arrest of over 150 offenders. In 2004, at the request of members of US Congress, Mr. Goldenberg spearheaded an international law enforcement mission for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the world’s largest government security enterprise, during which he operated in more than eight European nations including Ukraine, Hungary, Kosovo, and Croatia tasked with advising government and NGOs on topics such as community conflict, hate crimes, and the advent of transnational extremism. Many of his recommendations were implemented throughout Europe. Mr. Goldenberg has received numerous honors while working as a law enforcement officer in urban Essex County, New Jersey. Mr. Goldenberg has testified before the U.S. Congress, Presidential Commissions, the British Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, EU, Helsinki Commission, and appeared as an expert panelist and guest speaker at transnational security forums, both in the U.S. and abroad. He has been profiled, interviewed, and has also contributed to leading tv shows and publications worldwide, including Newsweek, The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Der Spiegel. He has received numerous honors from Muslim, Jewish, Christian, African American and Asian Indian advocacy groups, and organizations here in the USA and abroad.

DJ Smith has worked in the area of Covert Technical/Tactical Surveillance for over 30 years and currently serves as a Senior Technical Surveillance Agent for the Virginia State Police.  A few areas of specialty are Covert Surreptitious Audio/Video deployments, Title III Intercepts, GPS Installs, Video-Audio Clarification, Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM), Mesh-Node Deployments, Surreptitious Lock Bypass & Safe Penetration including GSA locks & containers, Technical Response to Hostage/Barricade Situations, Cellular Tracking and Geo-locating (DF), and sUAS & Counter UAS deployment operations to name a few.

In the area of sUAS and Counter UAS Operations:

• Deputy Director for DroneResponders Public Safety UAS Alliance for CUAS.
• Served on the Federal Aviation Administration CUAS Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC).
• Served on the Virginia Safe and Secure Commonwealth Sub-Panel dealing with UAS/Counter UAS implementation and legislative issues for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• 2024 Keynote Presenter on CUAS for SLTT at the World Police Summit in Dubai
• Currently he serves as an advisor to Congressional House & Senate Judicial committees on SLTT CUAS policy.
• Served as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on various drone & CUAS technologies for the DHS CUAS PMO office.
• As a representative of the Virginia State Police, he is a stakeholder on the Mid-Atlantic UAS Partnership group (Google Wing) at Virginia Tech for Commercial/Enterprise UAS deliveries.
• He has served on the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate First Responder Robotic Operational System Test (FFROST) assessment & evaluations of sUAS for Public Safety.
• Served on the DHS Blue UAS assessment for SLTT public safety.
• He has presented and moderated discussions at: Government Business Executive Forum & Security Summit, Annual Norway Security Summit, Semi-Annual Counter UAS Summit in Washington DC, AUVSI Xponential, Commercial UAV Expo, Annual CUAS Systems Congress, Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, and various agencies across the US & around the world.
• He also provides technical advice to various legislative groups in Washington, DC assisting in getting the legislative carve-outs for SLTT public safety agencies to obtain Advanced Detection and sUAS mitigation authority.
• International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP) Drone & CUAS policy advisor.
• He is also licensed part 107 pilot and has been flying sUAS for over 13 years.

Mary Rupert joined the DHS Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Program Management Office in June 2022 as a Policy Analyst, bringing over two decades of aviation security expertise to the team. In her role, Mary focuses on strategic planning for air domain awareness, threat discrimination, threat mitigation, and interagency information sharing.

Mary graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2001. She began her federal career with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at Pittsburgh International Airport in 2002, in response to the September 11th attacks. In 2009, Mary joined the Federal Air Marshal Service as a watch officer at the Transportation Security Operations Center in Virginia. She quickly advanced to the position of Command Duty Officer, where she led a team of over 80 members in monitoring, investigating, and resolving potential threats to transportation services. Her responsibilities included coordinating multi-agency responses to high-threat aviation security incidents, delivering executive-level briefings, and streamlining operational processes for improved efficiency.

Michelle Duquette is a seasoned Aviation Executive Strategist with extensive experience bridging engineering and operations within the aviation ecosystem. With a robust background in the airline industry and over 20 years of strategic advisory roles for the federal government, Michelle brings a broad and operationally deep perspective to her work. As the Founder of 3 MAD Air, Michelle leverages her expertise to consult on UAS and Advanced Air Mobility operations, civil-military integration, and public-private partnerships. She focuses on transforming complex challenges into actionable solutions through collaboration, risk mitigation, issue facilitation, and developing compelling narratives. Michelle excels at operationalizing missions to achieve results, driving regulatory strategy, operational excellence, and innovative solutions. Previously, Michelle was a Senior Principal at The MITRE Corporation, leading a multi-million dollar research portfolio spanning drone and AAM risk assessment, technical efficiencies for the FAA, aerospace forecasting, security vulnerabilities analysis, and cross-federal agency UAS integration harmonization. Her role involved delivering objective counsel to FAA and DOD executives, facilitating government-industry collaboration, and guiding the industry through the evolving FAA approval landscape. Michelle's career began as an Aircraft Dispatcher at CommuteAir dba USAir Express and Federal Express, where she developed custom flight following systems, developed and administered training curriculum, and contributed to corporate operational transitions. Her professional affiliations include serving on Advisory Boards, including DRONERESPONDERS serving the Public Safety community and the XPONENTIAL Executive Steering Committee for the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International. Michelle is a motivator and leader known for her persistence, intuition, operational creativity, and ability to navigate difficult conversations. She continues to drive strategic partnerships and innovative solutions within the aviation industry.

Center for Public Safety and Justice Advisory Board Member
2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.) has served 50 years in public safety. Charles served 37 years with the Charlottesville VA Fire Department; during the last ten years of that service, he was fire chief. Charles has had many leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level. He presently serves as Founder/Director for DRONERESPONDERS: with over 11,000 members that includes participation from 92 countries, DRONERESPONDERS has become the largest and leading nonprofit program to advance public safety UAS that focused on drones for good (countering UAS, UTM and AAM). Charles also serves as a public safety representative on the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance. In 2023, Charles joined the Virginia Department of Aviation as aviation technology advisor to work in the public safety areas of UAS, CUAS and AAM. 

William Paige is the Program Manager for the Center of Public and Justice at the University of Virginia.

William’s commitment to public service began as a civilian intern with the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. in the Court Liaison Division and Office of Volunteer Coordination, promoting the Department’s community relation initiatives. He also interned and worked in the Executive Office of the Mayor of Washington, D.C. During his time as an Associate in the Office of Federal and Regional Affairs, William engaged with federal and regional stakeholders to advance the interest of the District of Columbia on a wide range of policy issues. As an Associate Director in the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments, William recruited and managed appointments within the Mayor’s cabinet and staff. His portfolio included, among others, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety & Justice and the Office of the Senior Advisor. He also advised certain Mayoral nominees through the D.C. Council confirmation process to numerous volunteer boards and commissions.

During his time at the Georgetown University Law Center, William was a research assistant focusing on federal securities litigation, a summer associate at two international law firms, served on the Executive Board of the Georgetown Black Law Student’s Association, and a student attorney in the Federal Legislation Clinic focusing on anti-hunger policy and advocacy.

William joins the Center for Public Safety & Justice from private legal practice where he focused on antitrust & competition law while maintaining an active pro bono practice. 

William graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Business Law. He earned his law degree from the Georgetown University Law Center. 

In his free time, William enjoys exercising, reading non-fiction, and traveling.

William Paige is the Program Manager for the Center of Public and Justice at the University of Virginia.

William’s commitment to public service began as a civilian intern with the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. in the Court Liaison Division and Office of Volunteer Coordination, promoting the Department’s community relation initiatives. He also interned and worked in the Executive Office of the Mayor of Washington, D.C. During his time as an Associate in the Office of Federal and Regional Affairs, William engaged with federal and regional stakeholders to advance the interest of the District of Columbia on a wide range of policy issues. As an Associate Director in the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments, William recruited and managed appointments within the Mayor’s cabinet and staff. His portfolio included, among others, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety & Justice and the Office of the Senior Advisor. He also advised certain Mayoral nominees through the D.C. Council confirmation process to numerous volunteer boards and commissions.

During his time at the Georgetown University Law Center, William was a research assistant focusing on federal securities litigation, a summer associate at two international law firms, served on the Executive Board of the Georgetown Black Law Student’s Association, and a student attorney in the Federal Legislation Clinic focusing on anti-hunger policy and advocacy.

William joins the Center for Public Safety & Justice from private legal practice where he focused on antitrust & competition law while maintaining an active pro bono practice. 

William graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Business Law. He earned his law degree from the Georgetown University Law Center. 

In his free time, William enjoys exercising, reading non-fiction, and traveling.

Center for Public Safety and Justice Advisory Board Member
2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.) has served 50 years in public safety. Charles served 37 years with the Charlottesville VA Fire Department; during the last ten years of that service, he was fire chief. Charles has had many leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level. He presently serves as Founder/Director for DRONERESPONDERS: with over 11,000 members that includes participation from 92 countries, DRONERESPONDERS has become the largest and leading nonprofit program to advance public safety UAS that focused on drones for good (countering UAS, UTM and AAM). Charles also serves as a public safety representative on the Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance. In 2023, Charles joined the Virginia Department of Aviation as aviation technology advisor to work in the public safety areas of UAS, CUAS and AAM.