Sam Barnes

Sam barnes

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location of Sam BarnesConwy, Wales, United Kingdom
Followers of Sam Barnes621 followers
  • Timeline

  • About me

    Base Manager, Quartermaster, Airborne Sensor Operator for the Irish Coastguard | UAV Operations Management & Pilot | Remote Sensing Specialist

  • Education

    • Birkenhead school, bidston

      1999 - 2004
      Graphic design ba hons

      Maths, English Lit, Lang, Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Latin, Spanish, French, Design, Art, Technology

    • Birkenhead school

      1999 - 2004
      Gcses, a levels
    • Liverpool john moores university

      2017 - 2018
      Master's degree drone technology and applications 1st with distinction

      Taught by the legendary UAV expert Dr. Fred Bezombes.

    • University of chester

      2009 - 2012
      Bachelor of arts - ba graphic design (w/ hons) 1:2

      Activities and Societies: Typography, layout design, Web design, Project management, Print processes, Animation and Motion graphics.

    • University of central lancashire

      2015 - 2017
      Pgce fe teaching practice 1

      Activities and Societies: Media, design and computing. Trained and taught HND photography students, L1 to 5 computing students, Media Studies and Media Practice students.

  • Experience

    • Wmn studio, whistler, british columbia, canada

      Sept 2014 - Apr 2015
      Freelance motion graphic designer

      I created Architechual Marketing drawings for a major housing project in northern whilster - a place called Big Sky.... I also incorporated these into a custom built wordpress site.

    • Wirral metropolitan college - wirral met college

      Sept 2015 - Jun 2017
      Teacher

      Lecturer in ICT, Design & MediaPGCE Stage 1 Graded Outstanding Experience with students with a range of needs including Speech Impediment, Aspergers, Autism, ADD, ADHD, Hearing Problems, Mental Illness & Violent TendanciesPREVENT Counter Terrorism Training Compliant, Safeguarding Officer Training Compliant. DBS Current & Clean.

    • Drone factor ltd

      Jun 2017 - Mar 2020
      Uas pilot

      We provide drone survey systems to Corporate clients, Agricultural businesses, Residential customers and we operate as filmmakers for those looking for promotional materials to boost business.Through this enterprise we are embracing and developing new drone technologies and systems — making it easy and fast for homeowners, corporate clients and agribusinesses to get surveys carried out.We will use drones (or Small Unmanned Aerial Systems or ‘SUAS’) in conjunction with specially designed software and algorithms to quickly identify to roof damage, crop issues or structural issues. We can work with architects to visualize large projects.Duties and Responsibilities: Led and executed a comprehensive range of UAV services, including mapping, inspection, bespoke image/video capture, BBC video projects, and event coverage for both profit and non-profit organisations. Organised and conducted Demo Days at multiple Colleges & Universities to showcase UAV capabilities, demonstrating expertise in both piloting and business development aspects of the operation. Directed and oversaw all operational aspects, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and achieving business objectives. Developed comprehensive UAV service offerings, including mapping, inspection, customised image/video capture, and event coverage, catering to diverse client needs. Positioned the business as a leader in the UAV sector through strategic planning, business development initiatives, and effective client engagement strategies. Cultivated partnerships and collaborations with educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and clients to expand market presence and drive business growth. Utilised advanced piloting skills and technical expertise to execute challenging projects, delivering high-quality results and exceeding client expectations. Ensured the maintenance and upkeep of UAV equipment and technology, optimising performance and reliability for seamless operations. Show less

    • Hidef aerial surveying limited

      Oct 2018 - Aug 2019
      It hardware technician

      Duties and Responsibilities: Orchestrated the construction, calibration, and maintenance of cutting-edge sensor arrays for aircraft deployed in both the UK and the US, confirming optimal performance and data accuracy. Took charge as the Office IT System Administrator, overseeing the seamless operation and management of office IT systems and servers to support operational efficiency. Conducted daily flight planning activities, managing flight crew assignments, performing weather checks, and coordinating dispatch operations to maximise mission success and safety. Directed the integration and optimisation of sensor arrays and hardware components, confirming seamless functionality and superior performance in UAV operations. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to assess project requirements, define technical specifications, and deliver bespoke UAV solutions for diverse applications. Conducted rigorous testing and validation protocols to verify the reliability, accuracy, and efficiency of remote sensing and hardware systems under real-world conditions. Played a key role in proposal development, providing technical expertise and insight to support business growth and secure new opportunities in the UAV sector. Demonstrated leadership and professionalism in all aspects of work, establishing oneself as a trusted authority and thought leader in remote sensing and IT hardware within the UAV industry. Accomplishments: Spearheaded the expansion of operational sensor systems from 1 to 8 within the EU, with an additional unit exported to the USA, concurrently managing IT systems administration and data handling responsibilities. Significantly increased survey revenue from £30k per day to £200-230k by enhancing operational efficiency and deploying advanced sensor technologies. Show less

    • Freelance

      Aug 2019 - now
      Data aquisition systems architect

      UAV, Air, Sub-sea data capture system design.Orchestrated onshore and offshore surveys totalling approximately 2500 hours over 4 years, employing meticulous weather analysis, task planning, and logistical expertise to ensure mission success. Led the design, engineering, fabrication, installation, and testing of sophisticated sensor arrays, including Phase One, Riegl LiDAR, and FLIR thermal systems, within fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. Accumulated approximately 3000 flight hours across a range of aircraft, including King Air, P68s, DA42s, and various rotary aircraft. Implemented 10 new survey systems in 16 months, increasing daily capacity by 4 to 5 times and raising revenue from £30k to over £250k per day. Expanded department staff from 5 to over 150 in 3 years, driving departmental turnover to £16 million in the second year, contributing significantly to overall company revenue. Accounted for one-third of company income with just 3 flying staff, 1 coordinator, and 2 data handlers, showcasing the impact of system implementation on business growth. Developed highly reliable survey systems, crucial for securing lucrative contracts and establishing the organisation as a UAV sector leader. Show less

    • Apem ltd

      Feb 2020 - Feb 2024
      Senior aerial survey technician

      Strategizes and oversees the comprehensive planning and execution of flight operations, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and regulatory compliance. Direct pilots and technicians, fostering a culture of safety, and continuous improvement and learning. Spearheads the development and implementation of innovative technologies and methodologies to enhance operational efficiency and data quality. Collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to assess project requirements, deploy resources effectively, and deliver exceptional results within budget and timeframe constraints. Serves as a subject matter expert on flight operations, guiding best practices, risk mitigation strategies, and emerging industry trends to senior leadership and project stakeholders. Establishes and maintains strong relationships with regulatory authorities, industry partners, and clients to ensure seamless coordination and compliance with relevant regulations and standards. Leads incident response and resolution efforts, accurately recording incidents, troubleshooting complex technical issues to minimise operational disruptions. Conducts regular self-performance evaluations, identifying skill gaps, and implementing targeted training and development initiatives to optimise team capabilities and drive professional growth. Drives business development activities by identifying new opportunities, cultivating strategic partnerships, and contributing to proposal development efforts to expand the organisation's footprint in the survey sector. Upholds the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct in all interactions, representing the organisation as a respected leader in operations considerations. Show less

    • Phoenix optical technologies limited

      Aug 2024 - Sept 2024
      Precision optics production

      Crafting ultra high end optics for discreet defence contracts for a range of applications on land, air and sea. If I told you I'd....

    • 2excel aviation ltd

      Oct 2024 - now
      Sensor operator | shannon base manager | quartermaster - irish coastguard - garda cósta na héireann

      Doing the things that others wouldn't, in all conditions, using high end camera turrets, comms systems, radar and believe it or not, my eyes!> Base Management - Hangar Equipment & Logistics, > Safety Equipment Maintenance, Crew House Mgmt.> Conducting Search and Rescue operations, north south, east and west of Ireland> Providing coordination and top down cover for helicopter extractions and winch operations> Control of pollution sorties> Border patrol & much much more! Show less

  • Licenses & Certifications

    • Postgraduate certificate in education

      University of central lancashire
      Sept 2015
    • Masters in drone technology & applications

      Liverpool john moores university
      Jul 2018
    • General line of sight certificate

      Civil aviation authority
      Jul 2024
    • A2cofc

      Civil aviation authority
      Mar 2024
  • Volunteer Experience

    • Photo Specialist & Graphic Design

      Issued by The Wildlife Trusts on Apr 2008
      The Wildlife TrustsAssociated with Sam Barnes
    • Environmental Services Specialist

      Issued by Wirral Country Park Centre on May 2003
      Wirral Country Park CentreAssociated with Sam Barnes