Scott Mlakar is a former Battalion Chief in Northeast Ohio and the Training Standards Program Manager for DRONERESPONDERS, a national non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) by public safety agencies. With over three decades of fire service experience, he has been a pioneer in integrating drone technology into emergency response operations.

Mr. Mlakar is widely recognized for his leadership in developing best practices, training standards, and operational guidance for public safety UAS programs across the United States. Through his work with DroneResponders, he has helped thousands of agencies implement and expand drone capabilities for missions such as search and rescue, disaster response, and situational awareness.

A frequent speaker and instructor, he collaborates with federal, state, and local partners to promote safe, effective, and coordinated drone operations in the public safety community.