LEADERSHIP TEAM
Meet the executive team of Autonomous Flight Technologies
CEO/FOUNDER
Josh May
Josh May is the Founder and CEO of Autonomous Flight Technologies (AFT), a Salem, Virginia–based company specializing in the design, development, and deployment of advanced uncrewed aircraft systems. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Josh built AFT from the ground up with a vision to push the boundaries of autonomous flight and deliver practical, mission-driven solutions across commercial, industrial, and defense sectors.
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Under his leadership, AFT has grown into a trusted provider of UAS technologies and services, supporting applications ranging from engineering and mapping to emergency response and national security. Josh is known for his hands-on approach to innovation, deep technical expertise, and commitment to keeping AFT at the forefront of the rapidly evolving unmanned systems industry.
Chief of Operations
Whitt Milne
Whitt Milne serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Autonomous Flight Technologies (AFT), where he oversees day-to-day operations, program execution, and organizational growth across the company’s unmanned aircraft systems portfolio.
In his role, Whitt focuses on scaling operational capability, strengthening internal processes, and ensuring seamless delivery of AFT’s technologies to customers across commercial, industrial, and defense markets. He plays a key part in aligning engineering, production, and business development efforts to support rapid innovation and mission readiness.
Known for a practical, execution-driven leadership style, Whitt is committed to building efficient systems and high-performing teams that enable AFT to deliver reliable, field-ready autonomous solutions.
Director of Defense Strategy & Business Development
Jason Higgs Maj. (Ret)
Jason brings over 20 years of distinguished service as a U.S. Air Force Special Operations pilot, including 13 deployments and more than 3,000 flight hours—over 1,300 in combat. He is qualified in the MC-130H, MC/AC-130W, and MQ-9 Reaper, and has supported critical missions within Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC).
Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of special operations aviation, contributing to the development and operational integration of the MC/AC-130W platform and specializing in UAV/RPA operations, ISR, and close air support. While serving at Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) Headquarters, he led training and readiness for more than 350 MQ-9 Airmen in high-threat environments, helping shape tactics still in use today.
At AFT, Jason leads defense strategy and business development, bringing deep operational expertise to advance next-generation autonomous solutions for the warfighter.
Roman Kalinchuk
UAS Production and Software Supervisor
As the UAS Production and Software Supervisor at Autonomous Flight Technologies, Roman Kalinchuk oversees the end-to-end fabrication and software integration of small UAS platforms. He bridges the gap between hardware and code, managing everything from production workflows and avionics integration to rigorous QA testing. With a background as a drone engineer and FAA-credentialed mechanic and Remote Pilot, Roman leverages deep technical expertise to ensure the delivery of mission-ready systems.
Paul Stoutamire
Chief of Flight Services
Paul Stoutamire serves as the Chief of Flight Operations at Autonomous Flight Technologies (AFT), where he oversees flight operations, mission planning, and the safe execution of all unmanned aircraft system activities.
With extensive experience in aviation operations and UAS program management, Paul ensures AFT’s flight teams maintain the highest standards of safety, performance, and mission readiness. He plays a critical role in coordinating test flights, field operations, and customer demonstrations, helping translate engineering capability into real-world performance.
Known for his operational discipline and hands-on leadership, Paul is instrumental in advancing AFT’s ability to deliver reliable, mission-ready autonomous flight solutions.