About
Our Journey Founded with a vision to make drone technology accessible and impactful, Droneversity has grown into a trusted partner for universities, nonprofits, and government agencies. By aligning our services with industry needs, we ensure that every graduate is equipped with cutting-edge skills for high-demand careers.
Our Mission
To empower individuals and organizations through world-class drone education, fostering innovation and driving workforce development in the drone industry.
Our Vision
To become the leading gateway for entering the drone industry, setting new standards for education and consultancy.
Meet Our Founder
Ashlee Cooper Ashlee Cooper, MLS(ASCP)
Affectionately known as the "Drone Boss Lady," is the Founder and President of Droneversity. Her journey into the drone industry began serendipitously when, while photographing balloon decorations she designed, a passerby suggested she use a drone. This pivotal moment inspired her to transition from her role as a molecular microbiologist and STEM educator to becoming a leading figure in drone education.
Ashlee is a Part 107 certified Remote Pilot with an sUAS rating and serves as a board member of the Pennsylvania Drone Association. She is also a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safety Team Representative and holds the distinction of being the first African-American woman FAA DronePro in the U.S. Northeast Region.
Under her leadership, Droneversity has achieved remarkable milestones, including a 100% pass rate for students taking the FAA Part 107 exam. Ashlee's dedication to inclusivity and excellence has been recognized through various accolades, such as winning the $10,000 grand prize at the 12th Annual Swim with the Sharks Pitch Competition.
Core Values
Innovation
Leading with cutting-edge technology and methods.
Inclusivity
Making drone education accessible to all.
Excellence
Striving for unmatched quality in every program.
Community Impact
Driving positive change through education.
OUR TEAM
Highly Qualified Professionals,
Widely Acknowledged in their Field.
Faye Paige Edwards
Solutionist
Vice President, Faye Paige Edwards
In addition to earning the FAA Part 107 Certification, Faye Paige Edwards, MBA, is a GirlTrek community organizer with a Community Health Worker certification. She has an extended history as an entrepreneur and has provided training in multiple settings. Her responsibilities as President of Dronversity include business and curriculum development and she is a Droneversity Instructor.
James Paige
Operations Manager
Dean of Education,
Captain Neferteri Strickland
Captain Neferteri Stickland PMP, CISSP, CEH is a Cybersecurity Strategist and military officer. After joining the Army National Guard she became a certified Private Pilot while still in high school.
Neferteri is a highly effective strategist who motivates others to solve pressing problems and accomplish meaningful goals. She is the creative genius behind two powerful vehicles that are expanding STEM opportunities for all - Teachers & The Third Lieutenant Podcast. Both bring together education stakeholders to achieve the common goal of equal STEM education and careers. Her audience includes scholars, parents, Military Veterans, business and industry, education, non-profits, government, and philanthropy.
Droneversity is honored and humbled to have her as an Education Advisor. Captain Strickland understands the national and global power and promise of drone education, training, and career planning. She is an invaluable resource in executing our global STEM initiative.
Our shared passion is to increase the pool of role models and mentors who offer new perspectives to create and support the development of career paths for a diverse community.
LaRon McLean
Dean of Safety
Dean of Flight Safety
LaRon McLean is our Air Traffic Control Subject Matter Expert (SME) and the Director of National Airspace Advisement for Drone Navigations. As the Air Traffic Control SME and Director of National Airspace Advisement, LaRon is in a unique position to advise Drone Navigations on how to best collaborate drone operations with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
LaRon began his career as an air traffic control specialist with the United States Air Force (USAF), where he managed several air traffic control facilities throughout the United States. In addition, LaRon has experienced controlling and managing international facilities located in places such as Honduras, Spain, South Korea, Ireland and Afghanistan where International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations were enforced.
LaRon is a decorated veteran who continues to serve in the US military. From LaRonā€™s several years of air traffic experience he is able to expertly advise the drone community on how to work with the air traffic to ensure safe and well-ordered operations.
LaRon holds a bachelorā€™s degree of science in air traffic control management and airway safety. We are thrilled to count LaRon among our distinguished members of the Droneversity team.
Kent Tribbett
Lead Flight Instructor
Lead Flight Instructor
Kent Tribbett is multi-talented. Upon returning to the United States after success as an international basketball player, he enjoyed broadcasting and transportation specialist careers. In 2018 he began flying drones recreationally. Next he earned an FAA commercial drone pilot license and now serves as Droneversityā€™s Drone Fleet and Obstacle Course Manager. He is a drone media consultant; builds and repairs drones; teaches robotics; and FPV Drone Racer. Highly skilled in drone flight, he conducts training and instruction for beginners to experts, with weekend sessions. Additionally, he enjoys coaching youth in multiple sports, including basketball.
