Los Angeles Fire Department / Director of Public Safety Enterprise UAS
Derrick has decades of experience as a career firefighter working for the last 32 years for the Los Angeles City Fire Department assigned at fire station 80 at LAX International Airport. This has provided him with critical insight that allows him to lead emergency aerial response missions in the event of military attacks, fires, or other natural disasters. His expertise in this method of gathering crucial data while keeping responders safe can often mean the difference between life and death. Derrick served as a crew leader for the 14-member Los Angeles County flight crew in Malibu. This crew is extensively trained in wildfire submission tactics, has high fitness standards, and requires specialized flight skills. Derrick and his team flew in Huey helicopters across California to fight fires, often in remote areas with little logistical support. During his career as a firefighter, Derrick gained skills in air- traffic control communication, airport familiarization, HAZMAT standards, and arson investigation. He is certified in Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting and has over 1,948 hours of UAS flight time. Derrick serves as a co-lead UAS Pilot for the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Derrick Ward is the CEO and operator of Hot Shots Aerial Photography. Hot Shots provides professional aerial imaging services using advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. Our photography and videography services provide value for individual, corporate and government clients. We provide aerial imaging for the construction and real estate industries, farmers and growers, the insurance industry, and energy and power generation, just to name a few. We follow three fundamental principles in the pursuit of our business: We leverage affordable, reliable technology for our clients. We deliver proven results that you can trust. And we provide exceptional customer service. Aerial Imaging Results You Can Trust Our unique skill set combines extensive experience in aviation, construction and engineering, emergency response and forensic investigation. Our team is fully insured and we are FAA certified for drone operation. Because we are committed to providing exceptional and responsive service to our clients, we are happy to customize our imaging capabilities to meet your needs.
Currently Scheduled: Day 1 Session 2: Drones Save Lives
