According to a release, Joe Ellerman has joined KDOT's Aviation team as an Emerging Aviation Analyst, bringing with him to the role more than two decades of public safety experience following a 21-year career in law enforcement that included time with the Atchison Police Department, where he served as a Motorcycle Officer, Special Response Team Leader, Hostage Negotiator, and Firearms Instructor.
Ellerman continues to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter and rescue team member. KDOT says he'll use that tactical and emergency response background to expand the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems for public safety operations, helping engage with first responders statewide and ensuring they have the aviation information they need to stay safe and improve their operations.
Ellerman, KDOT says, gained a personal interest in aviation while managing ground support for an aerial application company, work that eventually led him to begin taking flight lessons.
