Michael Marquardt is a Flight Test Lead helping Skydio’s flying robots survive the real world while building a world-class UAV test site in Northern Colorado. He previously developed new approaches to UAV-based wildlife conservation at the CSU Drone Center and is a lifelong tinkerer interested in embedded systems, robotics, automation, machine learning, machine design, and additive manufacturing.
Building a world-class UAV test site for Skydio’s family of flying robots. Leading early-stage software validation and hardware reliability testing in Colorado’s extreme weather. Working with partners across aerospace, defense, and education to expand our testing capabilities.
Ran a four-month test campaign evaluating X10 performance at high altitude and in extreme weather. Developed progressive testing gates that were later incorporated into official aircraft validation test cases. Later contributed to Dock beta test program with prototype hardware.
Drone Pilot and Technician
Operated UAVs for university research, marketing, and live Division I football broadcasts. Co-developed a UAV-based thermal imaging methodology to survey wildlife nesting sites for The Nature Conservancy.
Engineering Design and 3D Printing Intern
Ran the prototype lab, building scale mockups of mechanical systems while keeping the printers in working order. Led a full test stand re-design from requirements through requests for manufacturing quotes.
B.S. Mechanical Engineering
Foreign Exchange Term
