North Dakota is a thriving ecosystem of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in public and private use. Through the development of Vantis, a statewide network enabling UAS flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), it is poised to become the nation's epicenter of commercial UAS activity. Vantis is the first such program of its scale in the United States.
Our UAS Experience
Reducing Barriers to Success
The state has taken the lead through capital investment and infrastructure, while facilitating regulatory approvals and commercial applications. Vantis' team brings together leaders with decades of aviation, telecommunication and government experience in fostering innovation and reducing barriers to success.
Diversifying North Dakota's Economy
The uses for UAS are growing exponentially, and North Dakota has played a leadership role from the start. In the past decade, the state's UAS industry has grown from several dozen workers to more than 1,000. UAS act as the connectors of the sky and serve to diversify ND's economy. Railroads brought prosperity. So will UAS.
Our Team
Trevor Woods
Trevor is the Executive Director, overseeing all test site operations, including the administration of Vantis, North Dakota's statewide UAS network. He participates on the FAA's Drone Safety Team and served as the Lead for the FAA's BVLOS ARC Working Group 2.1. Trevor's work has facilitated advancements in C2 and DAA technologies and in BVLOS Operations. He was also instrumental in facilitating test site participation in the FAA's Integration Pilot Program, now the BEYOND program. Trevor holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Aviation Management and a Master of Business Administration.
Jeremy Amundson
Jeremy leads the Program Management Office and oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of complex UAS initiatives. His team works closely with government, industry, and research partners to transform innovative concepts into operational programs, supporting flight operations, regulatory approvals, and advanced testing activities. With extensive experience in aerospace, Jeremy has played a key role in advancing the safe integration of UAS into the NAS. He works closely with federal, state, and commercial stakeholders to navigate regulatory pathways, including FAA Part 44803 exemptions and BVLOS operations, helping clients accelerate the deployment of emerging aviation technologies. Prior to his current role, Jeremy developed expertise in operations management, business development, software applications, and technology solutions. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from North Dakota State University.
Kristy Bachman
As Administrative Officer, Kristy Bachman leads the organization's administrative operations and supports executive leadership through strategic planning, business administration, and continuous process improvement. She oversees human resources, board administration, contracts, purchasing, facilities, invoicing, and other core business functions that keep the organization running efficiently. Since joining the team in 2019, Kristy has played a key role in strengthening internal processes and building the operational foundation that supports the organization's continued growth. She holds a Bachelor of General Studies.
Everett Dunnick
As Director of Special Programs, Everett Dunnick leads strategic initiatives that advance the organization's most complex programs, including Vantis, the Drone Replacement Program, and ULTRA. He brings more than two decades of leadership experience spanning military operations, unmanned aircraft systems, and program management. Before joining the organization, Everett held leadership roles with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, where he supported advanced UAS testing, training, and operational capability development. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Infantry Officer with 23 years of service, he combines operational expertise with strategic leadership to deliver innovative solutions for government and industry partners.
Devona Janousek
Devona Janousek leads the NPUASTS financial management and business administration functions. She oversees budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls, providing strategic financial leadership that supports executive decision-making and organizational sustainability. Devona joined the Test Site in 2026 after more than 11 years in finance roles at the University of North Dakota. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management.
Victor Meza
Victor Meza serves as the Marketing Manager for the Northern Plains UAS Test Site. A Communications graduate from the University of North Dakota, Victor has spent more than 15 years translating complex ideas into engaging stories. His career includes journalism, sales, nonprofit leadership, and strategic marketing, giving him a unique perspective on connecting with diverse audiences. Today, he leads the organization's marketing and communications efforts, helping industry leaders, government agencies, policymakers, and the public better understand the impact of emerging aviation technologies. Victor is passionate about making technical topics accessible and showcasing the real world benefits of innovation.
Danielle Miller
Danielle leads the NPUASTS Safety Division. Implementing the NPUASTS Safety Management System, she promotes safety as a core value with practices that support a positive safety culture throughout the organization. She provides oversight and direction to maintain the highest levels of aviation and safety standards, and ensures all operations are performed to an acceptable degree of safety. Danielle has led NPUASTS participation in a number of high-profile programs, including the FAA's Integration Pilot Program, now Beyond, and Vantis, North Dakota's statewide UAS network. She led the development and execution of the Vantis Program's initial test campaigns to assess the operational effectiveness of services provided by the Vantis System and measure viability of the network to safely enable beyond visual line of sight flight within the National Airspace System. Danielle holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology and Environmental Geoscience.
Collin Newberry
Collin leads the integration of operational execution and safety oversight across all programs. He is responsible for implementing and maintaining robust operational processes, ensuring that every mission is conducted with the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and compliance. He aligns teams, technology, and procedures to support safe and scalable UAS operations within the National Airspace System. Collin has played a key role in supporting complex flight operations and advancing BVLOS capabilities through Vantis, North Dakota’s statewide UAS network. His work focuses on coordinating multi-stakeholder operations, integrating emerging technologies, and ensuring operational readiness across a wide range of use cases. A certified flight instructor and veteran of the U.S. Army, Collin holds a Bachelor of Science in Commercial Aviation & Flight Education.
Discover the Capabilities
Talk to us about programs and projects Vantis can make fly.
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