10 Within 10 Recognition

Major: Media management

Job Title & Employer: Founder and CEO of Hyvion, a drone services provider.

Current city and state: Atlanta, GA

Hometown: Indianapolis

What is your favorite memory of CMU?

I was working with students preparing for the News Central evening newscast when I received a call from a random number. I answered, assuming it was most likely a telemarketer, only to hear John Clark, executive director of the National Association of Broadcasters PILOT program. He was calling to let me know that the NAB not only loved my drone business concept but that it was named a finalist in the PILOT Innovation Challenge. That call, along with participating heavily and winning the New Venture Competition, fueled my entrepreneurial drive and helped me find my passions in the broadcast and aviation industries.

What has been your coolest moment since graduation?

Connecting and working with up-and-coming all-star students. Since graduation, I have built two amazing drone facilities at both of my alma maters and have hosted standout young professionals on business trips across the U.S. Anytime I am able to provide someone with the tools, guidance or support to help them achieve their career goals is always a profound moment for me.

What are you proudest of?

The people surrounding me. From close advisers who help me make critical business decisions to my friends and family, each person has a unique story and impressive skill set. But I most value the time I get to spend with them. These people have shaped who I am and are there to not only celebrate the big victories but also help chart a path for when things don't go as initially planned.

What advice would you give to new graduates?

Go grab that cup of coffee or get that lunch you keep talking about! We live in a society where it's natural for us to say, "Let's get coffee sometime," but we never actually do it. It may seem like an uncomfortable leap into the unknown — or an exhausting extroverted task — but that single exchange may help land your next deal, build a lifelong friendship or reconnect with a former acquaintance.

What has your work life taught you?

1Regardless of titles or status, we are all people. Once we remove that stigma and start relating to people on a personal level, we are more likely to find our similarities.

What about CMU helped you succeed?

I have been incredibly blessed to connect closely with alumni, faculty, and staff at CMU. Our business-driven relationships have not only turned into friendships, but a core group has been with me every step of the way, helping me succeed and grow.

Current city and state: Indianapolis, IN

Current job title and employer:  Founder and CEO, Hyvion

What is happening in your life today that you didn't expect when you were named one of the 10 within 10?