About U-PASS

Helping Unmanned Ag Pilots Fly Right

Welcome to U-Pass, the leading organization dedicated to providing unmanned agriculture pilots with the knowledge they need to succeed. We recognize the importance of safe and responsible drone operation in the agriculture industry, which is why we offer educational programs tailored to state-specific best practices and FAA regulations. Our Board of experts is here to support you every step of the way as you navigate this exciting field.

U.PASS Ag Drone Advisory Board Experts

U-PASS is focused on bringing state specific practices, in regard to agriculture spraying, to unmanned ag pilots. Our board members bring years of experience and extensive flight expertise. Each is passionate about helping unmanned ag pilots leverage the latest agricultural technology and modern techniques to stay profitable.

Meet The U-PASS Board

Brett Buyert

Don Wakamatsu

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CEO

Michelle Truman

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President

Richard McPherson

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Educator

Brett Buyert

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Represents Iowa

Charlie Booker

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FAA Expert

Tim King

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Represent Oregon - Bio

Vaughn Tolbert

Kurt Beckley

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Alex Ryan

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Represents Texas

Represents Washington

Represent Missouri

Joye Sanders

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Represents Florida

Al Stehle is a board member and located in California

Al Stehly

Represents California

Our Ag Expert State Directors

Montana

Georgia - Noah McGowen

McGowan Weed Control & Fertilization was started in 2021 doing lawn applications. In February of 2023 I became aware of agricultural drones and decided to make the move. With the help of the Farmitude program, I began specializing in forestry and row crop applications in August of 2023. It is a privilege to be serving east Georgia with this newer technology and helping make more timely and precise applications.

Illinois - Konnor Merritt

Here at 360 Vision, we are always looking for advanced ways to accomplish challenging goals. We currently service row crop farmers, pond/lake owners, duck clubs, and other specialty services. Drones allow us to access places that other application methods cannot. They also allow us to do a more accurate and efficient job than other methods. We are always looking for new ways and applications to use our drones, and always have an open ear for new ideas.

Idaho - Bill Ballantyne

Indiana - Gavin Bulmer

G and G Agvantage located in South Central Indiana, established in 2023. Our goal was to introduce our local ag market to drones and how this technology can benefit everyone. It turned into more than what drones have to offer for us. It turned into lifelong friendships and relationships. This not only benefited crops on our own farm and others, it also kept us from turning away from the farm. G and G offers a wide variety of services including custom application, training, drone repair, and sales through Agri Spray Drones.

Kansas - Ethan Hamel

Drone Dusters was established in the early spring of 2022 by a group of active fixed wing aerial applicators in Western Kansas. As ag pilots, we soon recognized the many benefits of utilizing unmanned aircraft to access hard to reach areas and offer precise aerial applications of pesticides and fertilizer. With an extensive background of aerial application, we offer a variety of services to include weed management in pasture and cropland, insect control, and row crop applications.

Kentucky -

Louisiana - David Drew

Heliworx Aviation, LLC was created in 2023 by David Dew. Heliworx Aviation is based in Monroe, LA. We currently spray agricultural row crops using herbicides and insecticides. We also offer seeding and fertilization. We are willing to travel to nearby parishes as needed. Heliworx Aviation was started based on David's drive to once again work with agriculturalists within the area and fly drones. David began his career in commercial pesticides as a chemical loader and business manager for a local crop dusting service in Rayville, LA over 20 years ago.

Maine - Tom Massey

Maryland - Earl Dyson

Scout Applicators provides custom application and seeding services for the Delmarva Peninsula. Our operation is centered around two Agras T40 spray drones which are nursed by a custom fabricated drone trailer. This self-contained unit enables our team to cover hundreds of acres per day efficiently with dry or liquid product. Our aerial application service is reinforced by a tracked, ground-based sprayer capable of accessing hard to reach areas where drones cannot fly safely. Whether it’s spraying crop protection, seeding cover crop or chasing invasive species, Scout Applicators has you covered!

Michigan - Matthew Litwiller

Michigan Agricultural Commodities provides custom aerial and ground application. We currently offer custom application and seeding services with two Dji T40s, as well as offering multiple other services like plant health evaluation and scouting. In addition to our fertilizer and chemical application, we offer soil sampling and scouting, custom blending, and application equipment rental. Give us a call at 800-344-7263 (office) or 989-436-1810 (Cell). Or shoot me an email at mlitwiller@michag.com

Minnesota - Joseph Encinias

Joseph Encinias started his agricultural drone journey in 2020 with his family's 4th generation farm in SE Minnesota. ABC Drones was born with a mission of Putting You In Control of your late season applications. ABC's fleet consists of 2 HYLIO AG-230 drones and 1 AG-216. With many years and thousands of application acres under their belts, they are an expert in drone application. Joseph is also the Drone Division Manager for Titan Pro SCI. Titan Pro is an independent, family-owned agricultural inputs company that supplies crop protection and plant performance products, seed, crop insurance and HYLIO Drones to growers across the Midwest through their network of highly knowledgeable, entrepreneurial dealers. Titan Pro's mission is to provide the highest quality products and value-added solutions that enable their dealers and customers to succeed. They know what it takes to keep your land and your operation strong, healthy, and productive. That’s why Titan Pro provides year-round support, progressive strategies, and hands-on consulting. By empowering their dealers to bring innovation and opportunity to every farmer, it is ensured that Titan Pro customers are equipped with the tools needed to succeed each season.

Joseph is a one stop shop for HYLIO Drones and Crop Protection Products. He provides training, service, parts, licensing, and support. Reach out to him if you have any questions or just want to talk drones!
Certifications/Experience:
Co-owner: ABC Drones LLC - https://www.abcdronesllc.com/
Drone Division Manager: Titan Pro SCI - https://www.titanprosci.com/
Part 107 and Part 137 Operator
Started Agricultural Drone Operations in 2020
Thousands of acres of field applications
Certified HYLIO Technician
Certified HYLIO Pilot Trainer
Authorized HYLIO Distributor
Phone: 641-529-9927

Nebraska - Randy Jensen

Randy Jensen, the owner and operator of Jensen Precision Aerial Spraying and Services, has an extensive background in agriculture, spanning over 30 years on his family farm raising crops and livestock. His passion for flying drones and model aircraft led him to invest in DJI T40 drones to start an aerial application business. Randy’s business specializes in the application of products to cropland and pastures. Additionally, he offers crop imaging and mapping services to enhance efficiency. Randy’s commitment to innovation and expertise makes his company a trusted partner for farmers and landowners. Reach out to him if you have any questions or need additional information on the services that Jensen Precision Aerial Application offers.

Montana

North Dakota -

Facebook: Midwest Air LLC
Instagram: midwestairdrones
Youtube: Midwest Air Drones

Ohio - Kamden & Hayden Crum

We are brothers who represent the seventh generation of our family's farm in Southern Ohio where we farm corn, soybeans, and cattle. Our family also has a farm supply store that has been around for 50 years where we sell seed, fertilizer, and chemicals, and provide custom application services with ground equipment. We are co-owners of Midwest Air which we started in 2021 where we provide custom spray applications with drones along with sell and service spray drones.

South Carolina - Craig Thomas

South Dakota -

Utah - Alex Waldren

Allow me to introduce myself and my colleagues. With 18 years of experience as a helicopter pilot, I have developed a deep understanding and passion for aviation. Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey, aiming to assist individuals who aspire to become certified drone pilots and licensed pesticide applicators. Alongside me, I have the privilege of working with my dedicated brother and sister, who bring over 25 years of expertise in agriculture farming and application. Together, we are committed to providing comprehensive guidance and support to those seeking to enter these fields. Our collective experience and shared dedication make us a reliable and knowledgeable team ready to help others achieve their goals in the world of aviation and agriculture.

West Virginia - Derrick Jackson

Derrick Jackson, Owner of Jackson Aerial Ag LLC, located in Southside WV. We currently fly A DJI T-40 covering the states of WV, OH, and PA specializing in crop protection and pasture management. Anything I can help with feel free to reach out at any time.