Robert Cameron

With a tenure spanning two decades at the Texas Department of Public Safety, I have dedicated my career to advancing public safety. After 10 years as a Highway Patrol Trooper, my journey with Criminal Investigations began in 2014 as a Narcotics Agent in Laredo, Texas, where I sharpened my expertise in combating drug-related offenses. Transitioning to the technological realm, I contributed significantly to the Computer Information Technology and Electronic Crimes (CITEC) unit, followed by a pivotal role in the Police Technology Unit at our headquarters in Austin, Texas. My passion for innovation led me to pioneer the Texas DPS Drone Program, marking a milestone as the department’s inaugural remote pilot. In March 2017, I spearheaded the first drone mission for Texas DPS in Austin, orchestrating area UAS operations that encompass tactical maneuvers, exigent circumstances response, and evidence recovery, collaborating with multiple central Texas public safety agencies. My contributions to the field were recognized in 2020 when I was honored as the first recipient of the FLIR National Drone Award. My operational experience extends to several UAS tactical operations along the Texas border, further solidifying my expertise in aerial surveillance and reconnaissance. I am the architect and current manager of the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Maintenance Program, overseeing nearly 340 remote pilots and a fleet of 350 drones.