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Ex-VP of Policy at DJI, identified as Brendan Schulman

Drone regulation advocate Brendan Schulman, popularly known as "The Drone Lawyer," led global policy-making at DJI, focusing on safety, innovation, and balanced regulation.

Ex-VP of Policy at DJI: Brendan Schulman
Ex-VP of Policy at DJI: Brendan Schulman

Ex-VP of Policy at DJI, identified as Brendan Schulman

Brendan Schulman, affectionately known as "The Drone Lawyer," has significantly influenced global drone policy and safety regulations during his six-year tenure as Vice President of Policy & Legal Affairs at DJI, the world's leading drone manufacturer. His contributions have defined commercial drone use worldwide[1].

Advocacy for Remote Identification (Remote ID)

Schulman played a pivotal role in crafting the FAA's Remote ID framework. He served on advisory committees, promoting rules that balanced accountability with access, thereby supporting both recreational and commercial drone users[1].

Development of Safety Features

Under his leadership, DJI introduced technical safety measures such as geofencing, altitude limits, and return-to-home functions. These features not only enhanced public safety but also set a precedent influencing global regulatory approaches toward drone operation[1].

Prior to joining DJI, Schulman gained prominence by defending hobbyist and nonprofit drone pilots against regulatory challenges. He earned national attention by winning a landmark case that overturned the first FAA civil penalty issued to a drone operator, helping protect user rights and shaping early drone regulatory discourse[1].

Shaping the U.S. Remote ID Framework

Schulman played a pivotal role in shaping the U.S. Remote ID framework, serving on FAA advisory committees and advocating for a balanced approach[1].

Global Influence and Advocacy

Engaging global regulators and speaking at major policy forums, Schulman cemented his reputation as an influential technologist and advocate. His calls for policy rooted in transparency, user rights, and open dialogue between innovators and regulators resonated with policymakers worldwide[1].

Expanding Expertise to Robotics Policy

In 2021, Schulman moved to Boston Dynamics as Vice President of Policy & Government Relations, expanding his expertise to robotics policy[2].

Jacob Stoner, a licensed commercial drone operator in Canada and a highly respected figure within his local drone community, admires Schulman's work. Stoner frequently conducts drone inspections and has a keen interest in the potential societal impact of drone technology advancements[3].

Schulman continues to believe that emerging technology, including ground robots, should be regulated based on actual risk, not fear or politics[3]. He remains an advocate for fair standards and innovation in mobile automation.

[1] Source: https://www.dji.com/newsroom/press-releases/dji-announces-new-vice-president-of-policy-and-legal-affairs-brendan-schulman [2] Source: https://www.bostondynamics.com/news/boston-dynamics-adds-new-members-to-executive-team [3] Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/05/12/boston-dynamics-hires-brendan-schulman-from-dji-to-lead-policy-and-government-relations.html

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