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Source: Josh Brungardt, jjb1128@k-state.edu, 785-826-2986
Prepared by: Natalie Blair, nblair@k-state.edu, 785-826-2642

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

K-STATE AVIATION NAMES JOSH BRUNGARDT DIRECTOR UAS PROGRAM OFFICE

Kansas State University at Salina has named Josh Brungardt director of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Program Office. The UAS Programs Office is a major initiative of K-State Aviation’s Applied Aviation Research Center.

“Josh will be working to develop policies and procedures in order to incorporate and facilitate the entry of unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace,” said Dr. Kurt Barnhart, head of K-State Aviation. “In addition, Josh will be trained as a UAV operator and closely involved with the hands-on field work of UAV operations.”

Brungardt has served as the Chief Pilot for High Performance Aircraft Training, EFIS Training, and Lancair. In addition to completing more than 100 first flights on experimental aircraft, he has served as an instructor pilot to the U.S. Air Force.

He also specializes in EFIS systems and avionics integration. In 2006, Brungardt started EFIS Training, a pilot training company focused on transitioning pilots to glass cockpits. He holds ATP & CFII ratings with more than 4000 hours, as well as having raced at the Reno National Air Races. Brungardt received a bachelor’s degree in airway science and an associate’s degree in professional pilot from K-State at Salina.

The Kansas State Applied Aviation Research Center advances aerospace technology through application of research in propulsion, airframe, avionics and aviation training. It is a cooperative venture of the K-State College of Technology and Aviation, the Salina Airport Authority, and the Salina Chamber of Commerce.

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