DroneXperts
About Us
Why Choose DroneXperts?
Experienced Instructors: Our team includes FAA-certified drone pilots with real-world expertise.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Access the latest drone systems, tools, and resources.
Flexible Learning Formats: Online, face-to-face, and hybrid options to suit your schedule.
End-to-End Support: From training and equipment to ongoing maintenance and consulting, we’re with you every step of the way.
Let DroneXperts be your partner in unlocking the potential of drones for your personal, commercial, or organizational needs.
Our Team
Dr. Mark Collins serves as the Chief Operations Officer of DroneXperts, bringing a wealth of experience in unmanned systems and aviation to the company. With a Ph.D. in Unmanned Systems from Capital Technology University, Dr. Collins previously held the position of Associate Professor and Director of Unmanned Systems (UMS) at Indiana State University (ISU).
At ISU, Dr. Collins was responsible for instructing UMS courses to undergraduate students, developing new curricula, advising students, securing grant opportunities, and conducting research on the integration of unmanned cargo aircraft (UCA) into the National Airspace. His academic background also includes an M.S. in Aviation & Transportation from Lewis University and a B.S. in Industrial Technology from Southern Illinois University (SIU).
Dr. Collins holds several FAA certifications, including:
Remote Drone Pilot
Private Pilot
Airframe & Powerplant Certificates
As an entrepreneur, Dr. Collins has founded and operated multiple businesses, including two sign companies and a property management venture spanning three states and two countries. His professional experience extends to the cargo airline industry, where he worked at Atlas Air Cargo Airline from 1999 to 2003. In this role, he served as an aircraft heavy check site representative and purchasing manager, overseeing labor and fuel procurement for over 50 Boeing 747 aircraft across international locations such as Singapore, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Germany, and mainland China.
Prior to his time at Atlas Air, Dr. Collins worked as a Site Representative at AAR Allen Aircraft in Wood Dale, IL from 1995 to 1999. He also served in the Army Illinois National Guard from 1990 to 1996, further enhancing his leadership and operational skills.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Collins is an active member of his community. He is a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus at his local church and is happily married to Sulasa Bell. His diverse background in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship makes him an invaluable asset to the DroneXperts management team, bringing a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience to drive the company's operational success.