GRAND FORKS — Frank Matus and Zach Peterson have been elected to leadership positions on the executive team of the North Dakota Unmanned Autonomous Systems Council.

Matus, director of UAS integration strategy and Airspace Mobility Solutions, Americas, has been named chair of the executive team. Peterson, director of business development at Vigilant Aerospace Systems, has been named vice chair.

Matus will bring decades of experience in aviation systems and digital infrastructure to the council, according to a release. His leadership will help “drive forward the council’s mission to advocate for cutting-edge policies, partnerships and solutions that benefit North Dakota’s UAS industry,” according to the release.

“Frank Matus is a visionary leader whose expertise in digital aviation and commitment to innovation will guide the council into an exciting new chapter,” said Matt Dunlevy, president of the NDUASC, in a statement.

“It’s an honor to serve as Chair of the NDUASC,” Matus said in a statement. “North Dakota has become a beacon of innovation in the UAS sector, and I look forward to working with the Council’s members to further enhance its leadership in this transformative industry.”

Peterson has been instrumental in advancing Vigilant Aerospace Systems’ safety and autonomous capabilities, the release said. In his role, he will foster partnerships, expand opportunities and support the council’s efforts to strengthen North Dakota’s UAS ecosystem.

“With Zach Peterson’s proven operational leadership and deep industry knowledge as Vice Chair, we are positioned to build on North Dakota’s reputation as a global hub for UAS advancement,” Dunlevy said in a statement. “Their combined leadership will inspire collaboration and progress across the UAS community.”

“I am thrilled to take on the role of Vice Chair,” Peterson said. “The NDUASC is uniquely positioned to lead the future of UAS innovation, and I’m eager to contribute to its mission of shaping a robust and thriving industry.”

The NDUASC is an interest group that advocates for policies to support North Dakota’s UAS ecosystem, including workforce development and innovation in the UAS industry.

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