Rapid Drone was founded to bring dependable, high-performance aerial intelligence to agencies and organizations across the Western United States.
Our team includes specialists in drone operations, emergency response support, engineering data, and advanced imaging. With decades of combined experience, we operate with strict safety standards, technical proficiency, and a commitment to mission success.
Through innovation and disciplined operations, we ensure every mission is conducted responsibly, efficiently, and with the highest level of professionalism.
Leadership
Gregory L. Steinhauer
Greg Steinhauer is President of Steinhauer Properties, a developer specializing in complex urban infill projects across the Western U.S. Over his career, he has overseen more than $2.5 billion in large scale hospitality and office developments, supported by his in house construction firm, SODO Builders. A Wharton graduate and civic leader, he has chaired the Seattle Police Foundation and serves on advisory boards for real estate and community organizations.
Deborah S. Steinhauer
Debbie Steinhauer is a philanthropist and founder of multiple police and fire foundations, including the Seattle Fire Foundation and the Scottsdale Police Foundation. She has raised significant funds to provide critical equipment, training, and wellness support for first responders beyond city budgets. Recognized with community service awards, she is known for her unwavering dedication to enhancing public safety and strengthening trust between officers and the communities they serve.
David F. Rietz
David F. Rietz has over 20 years of experience in the drone industry, bringing technical mastery and operational leadership to advanced UAV applications. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, he began building RC models with his grandfather and has since become a recognized expert in drone technology, regulatory compliance, and tactical deployment. As co founder of Rapid Drone, David drives innovation across public safety, infrastructure, precision agriculture, and immersive 3D intelligence, blending passion with proven industry expertise.
Carter Harrington - Chief of Flight Safety
Captain Carter Harrington is the Chief of Flight Safety at Rapid Drone, bringing more than 45 years of aviation experience spanning military, commercial, and regulatory operations. He began his career as a U.S. Navy Light Attack Aviator, flying A-7 Corsair aircraft from aircraft carriers. During his naval service, he logged over 2,000 flight hours in five aircraft types and earned the prestigious Top Gun and Tailhook awards.
Following his military service, Carter transitioned to commercial aviation, where he received advanced training from former World War II Flying Tigers pilots. Over his career, he has accumulated more than 33,000 flight hours across 11 aircraft types, including the DC-8, Boeing 727, Boeing 747, MD-10, and MD-11. A former FedEx Line Check Airman, Standards Check Airman, and FAA Designee, Carter is widely recognized for establishing industry-leading benchmarks in U.S. commercial aviation training, operational standards, and flight safety.
Wayne Ong - Data Analyst
Wayne Ong graduated from the University of Washington in 2023 with a background in data analytics. He began his career supporting COVID-19 research at UW Medicine, focusing on large-scale data processing and visualization. As a Drone Data Analyst at RapidDrone, Wayne specializes in aerial imagery processing and high-accuracy mapping. Passionate about drone technology, Wayne is committed to advancing aerial data for innovation and informed decision-making.
Michelle Spillman - Contract Administrator
Michelle Spillman is a trusted member of the team working with the principals for over 15 years, bringing extensive experience in contract administration, human resources, accounting, and payroll. As Rapid Drone’s Contract Administrator, she ensures compliance, accuracy, and efficiency across all agreements and internal processes. Her deep institutional knowledge, attention to detail and cross‑functional expertise make her a vital contributor to Rapid Drone’s growth and operational success.
Board of Advisors
Chief Carmen Best – Seattle Police Department (Retired)
Carmen Best is a nationally recognized public safety and security leader with more than 30 years of experience at the intersection of law enforcement, technology, and risk management. She served as Chief of the Seattle Police Department from 2018 to 2020, following a 26-year career rising through every rank and leading patrol, investigations, and specialized units. She later served as Director of Global Security Risk Operations at Microsoft, overseeing global risk and crisis management. She served on the IACP Board, is a member of NOBLE, a World Police Summit presenter, and an Ellis Island Medal of Honor recipient.
Gerard Bailey – Superintendent, Boston Police Department (Retired)
Gerard Bailey retired as Superintendent of the Boston Police Department’s Bureau of Field Services, where he commanded the city’s uniformed branch of more than 1,500 officers. In this role, he directed patrol operations, public safety strategy, and frontline standards across Boston’s neighborhoods. Recognized for his leadership and operational rigor, Gerard’s career reflects a distinguished commitment to law enforcement excellence and community trust.
Chief Harold D. Scoggins – Seattle Fire Department
Harold Scoggins has served as Fire Chief of the Seattle Fire Department since 2015, leading one of the nation’s most respected municipal fire agencies. He began his career as a U.S. Air Force firefighter and spent 26 years with the Glendale Fire Department, rising through the ranks to become Fire Chief in 2008. With more than three decades of service, advanced degrees in public administration, and a reputation for operational excellence, Chief Scoggins is recognized for his commitment to training, standards, and community safety.
Captain Steve Thompson – U.S. Air Force (Retired)
Captain Steve Thompson retired from the United States Air Force after a distinguished career in aviation and technical operations. With extensive experience in leadership and mission execution, he transitioned into the network technology sector, applying his expertise in systems management and operational security. Today, Steve is recognized for blending military discipline with advanced technical proficiency, ensuring resilient and innovative solutions in the digital domain.