isr - News & Information - Airborne Sensor Operators Group (ASOG)
2024-03-28T18:08:40Z
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/feed/tag/isr
ASO Job Search – Key Words
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/aso-job-search-key-words
2018-05-15T12:42:54.000Z
2018-05-15T12:42:54.000Z
ASOG Career Center
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGCareerCenter
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/125318252?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>If you’re searching the internet for your next Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) job, here are just a few common titles to plug in the search window, i.e., they should give you a good view of current opportunities (primarily in the commercial / contracting sectors):</p><p><br/>Primary:<br/>• Airborne Sensor Operator<br/>• Sensor Operator<br/>• UAV (RPA) Sensor Operator<br/>• Aerial Acquisition Operator<br/>• Payload Operator<br/>• UAV (RPA) Payload Operator</p><p><br/>Secondary:<br/>• Aerial Survey Navigator<br/>• Aerial Survey Technician<br/>• Aerostat Operator<br/>• Aerial Photographer or Videographer<br/>• ELINT/EW Operator or Technician</p><p><br/>Tertiary:<br/>• (Primary or Secondary ASO Title) / Instructor<br/>• (Primary or Secondary ASO Title) /Field Operations Specialist<br/>• (Primary or Secondary ASO Title) / Field Service Representative <br/>• (Primary or Secondary ASO Title) / Technician<br/>• (Primary or Secondary ASO Title) / System Engineer or Integration Engineer<br/>• (Primary or Secondary ASO Title) / Imagery Analyst <br/>• (Aerial Surveying, Mapping, ISR, etc.) / Project or Program Manager<br/>• (Aerial Surveying, Mapping, ISR, photography, etc,) / Planner</p><p>Bottom-Line, if you’re running an internet job search campaign, it’s a good idea to write-down keywords to help with your search but also for building your resume and preparing for interviews.</p><p>If you know of other keywords related to the ASO profession and how to search for a job, please share...More the better!</p><p>ASOG Career Center</p><p><br/>(Image: Wikimedia Commons - ResDigital18)</p></div>
Secondary ASO Profession – Aerial Archaeology
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/secondary-aso-profession-aerial-archaeology
2018-05-09T07:06:56.000Z
2018-05-09T07:06:56.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7hakGJU9xco?wmode=opaque" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0"></iframe></p></div>
FYI: JOB ANNOUNCEMENT - Flight Instructors
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/fyi-job-announcement-flight-instructors
2018-04-28T19:09:20.000Z
2018-04-28T19:09:20.000Z
ASOG Career Center
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGCareerCenter
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/14584153?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>ASOG Members,</p><p><br/>One of our members (Wayne Dahlke - Training Lead, ARL-E at Leidos) is looking to hire folks for his program. Review his note below and contact him directly if you’re interested…Wayne is in the members directory.</p><p><br/>Cheers!</p><p><br/>ASOG Career Center</p><p><br/><strong>-------Job Announcement Note:</strong></p><p><br/> Do you miss flying, but don't want to deploy again for a while? Do you miss teaching students on the aircraft, and watching the light bulb go on? Do you want to help the Army and the joint community do airborne intelligence collection better? If so, I have a just the job for you!</p><p><br/>I am looking for flight instructors who can teach in a classroom, understand intelligence collection, sensor operations, and how to translate engineering into operator.</p><p><br/>I have 4 positions available, job numbers 653198 and 653199. Three are in El Paso, Texas (Ft Bliss) and one is in Manassas, VA. $85K+ plus benefits.</p><p><br/>Please DM me if you have specific questions about the position or the company.</p></div>
Airborne Sensor Operator Instructor: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly!
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/airborne-sensor-operator-instructor-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly
2018-04-12T12:11:33.000Z
2018-04-12T12:11:33.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/14414167?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>If you have some years and flight hours under your belt as an ASO (both manned and unmanned), you’ll know not all ASO Instructors are the same. In a very simple or broad breakout, one can categorize the different types of Instructors as "the good, the bad and the ugly!"</p><p>Let’s start with the ugly or what I like to call the “SCREAMER.” In general, the screamer is abrasive, abusive, stern, excitable, condescending, or foul-mouthed. Their attitude and behavior are counter to all the basic principles of flight (and technical) instructing. Their oblivious to the needs of the student and how their negative behavior affects everything from the student, crew and flight section. I’m sure all of us can look through your flight log and point to a few names!</p><p>A bad ASO Instructor is the individual who is good or even outstanding as a stand-alone Mark-1 ASO plus an individual you can have fun drinking a beer with. However, they either don’t have the natural ability, motivation or proper training to instruct others. In the end, the student says “nice guy but I didn’t learn anything!”</p><p>O.K., now for the good ASO Instructor, a good ASO instructor is very proficient as an ASO and enjoys or even loves instructing! Here’s a list of traits that I think highlights a good ASO Instructor:</p><ul><li><strong>Attitude</strong> – Love of profession and love for teaching.</li><li><strong>Disciplined</strong> – Observing regulations and standards, i.e., a good role model.</li><li><strong>Certified</strong> – His or her hard work, experience, and technical skills are validated by other professionals.</li><li><strong>Teaching Abilities</strong> – Understand each student learns differently, i.e., knowing different instructing methods.</li><li><strong><span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Tough Love</span> “Tough Coddling”</strong> – Like a parent, doesn’t coddle their students but lets them learn from their mistakes.</li><li><strong>Mentoring</strong> – Goes beyond just instructing technical modules but share the art & spirit of being an Airborne Sensor Operator.</li></ul><p>If you find yourself as a professional ASO or even a secondary professional ASO instructing others but have never learned the trade of instructing, here’s one free open source for you to do a little self-professional development: <strong>FAA Aviation Instructors Handbook.</strong></p><p>If you know of any instructor traits (the good, the bad and the ugly) that I missed or an example, please comment.</p><p>ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick Ryan)</p></div>
What Makes a Good Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) or Crew Member?
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/what-makes-a-good-airborne-sensor-operator-aso-or-crew-member
2018-03-06T09:53:47.000Z
2018-03-06T09:53:47.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259909?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>ASOG Members, can you add to this.</p><p>Yes, ASOs and other Crewmembers are not the PIC (Pilot-In-Command), but, ASOs (in Manned & Unmanned Crews) still have a critical job in aviation operations. Are the following 8 points good to pass to the next generation of ASO’s?</p><p>1. Learn and observe with your Crew. You will see very good traits, some marginal and some bad ones. Pay attention to the good ones, and in the future, this will make a major difference in your career.</p><p>2. If you have a big ego, you probably going to have a hard time being an ASO, because your ego will be bruised and tested by different PICs (or other crewmembers). When the PIC points out something to you, don’t say – “yes I was about to do it” – or say – “right,” like if you were testing the PIC’s knowledge.</p><p>3. Don’t burn bridges, in the Manned & Unmanned Airborne/Aerial Remote-Sensing industry (Surveying, LE, ISR, ) you will need of all the friends you can make. The guy sitting in the cockpit or next to you in an Unmanned Ground Crew can be the one opening the door to your next job.</p><p>4. An aircraft’s cockpit or integrated unmanned ground crew is not a good place to be shy, ask questions to clarify that you don’t understand, be respectful but express your opinions, ideas, and concerns in a clear manner.</p><p>5. The most stupid question that you can ask in an airplane or during an unmanned flight operation is the one you don’t ask. Be willing to ask, if the PIC or fellow crew members don’t know the answer, then go to the source and learn together.</p><p>6. Don’t mix personal interest with the job at hand, like intensely hanging-out with other crewmembers or talking with a friend on the phone while you’re in the middle of flight operations.</p><p>7. Keep professional a 100% of the time, always be on time for your flight and if for some reason you’re delayed, call your supervisor, and let them know you care about your responsibilities.</p><p>MOST IMPORTANT: If you see a potential danger to the safety of the flight, don’t hesitate to speak up, or even act. If the PIC is smart (and most of them are), his or her response will be: Thank you!</p><p>Patrick Ryan</p></div>
Back To Basics (B2B)
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/back-to-basics
2018-02-23T08:51:58.000Z
2018-02-23T08:51:58.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259906?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>Fellow ASOG Members,</p><p>I thought you would find these articles interesting & informative. The following articles are good readings, i.e., highlighting several of the basic skill-sets required by an ASO or aircrew member…Aviate, Navigate, Communicate. Plus, they link to the previous blog on ASO Aviate, Navigate, Communicate: </p><p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="https://spark.adobe.com/page/MNKu9fbXzT0U2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aviate - 6 Basic Risk Mitigation Steps to Hone Your Flying Skills</a></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="https://spark.adobe.com/page/4eXa1vkhmpUln/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Navigate - Understanding the Lost Art of Aerial Navigation</a></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="https://spark.adobe.com/page/mdbkLxIRtfNiQ/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Communicate - The Basic Elements of Aviation Communications</a></strong></span></p><p>Even though these articles focus on the pilot side of the aircraft, are there any differences for the ASO or other non-pilot crew members?</p><p>Cheers!</p><p>ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick)</p></div>
The Airborne Sensor Operators Role In Aviate, Navigate and Communicate!
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/the-airborne-sensor-operators-role-in-aviate-navigate-and-communi
2018-02-20T21:49:02.000Z
2018-02-20T21:49:02.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259924?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p> </p><p>ASOG Members,</p><p>From an Airborne Sensor Operators or a Crew Member position, what is your role in this time-tested and Pilot trained philosophy of prioritizing routine flight actions or how to manage an in-flight emergency situation?</p><p><strong>My 2 Cent Answer: No Different …However!</strong></p><p>Because of the inherent danger of flying an aircraft, the Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) on a manned aircraft or a Payload Operator embedded with a Drone Flight Crew becomes “de-facto” critical part of the “Aviate, Navigate and Communicate” process. Even though the ASO has different technical duties & responsibilities than the Pilot, the main perspectives of an Airborne Sensor Operator from that of a Pilot are “different but not different.” So, if you’re an ASO or Payload instructor, are the following points good to instruct student ASOs in-regard-to Aviate, Navigate, Communicate:</p><p><strong>Aviate:</strong></p><ul><li>Besides the pilot, an ASO should make it a point to know the in & Out of the aircraft their flying. This includes knowing basic Aeronautical/Airmanship principles, your specific aircraft systems & performance factors and can have the technical knowledge to flight flow with the pilot in-regard-to the characteristic of the aircraft.</li><li>Routinely monitor the status of the condition of flight. Other words don’t get complacent after hours of boring data collection and doing your “bore-sighted” collection job. Don’t let your “Soda-Straw” view distract you from the “Big Picture”…ie…your part of a “piece of metal in the sky” from takeoff to landing (.3 or 13.0 Hrs.).</li><li>During an emergency, backup the pilot(s) flight situational awareness & workload…Don’t get fixated along with the rest of the crew! Help the pilot fly the airplane by taking another task off his or her mind (look-up/read-out-loud EP checklist, crawl around the cockpit to check cable connections, etc)!</li></ul><p><strong>Navigate:</strong></p><ul><li>As the Sensor Operator, you should have equal or better geo-location situational awareness than the pilot because of the purpose of data collection to know where you are; know the terrain around you, below you and where you’re going. Also, an ASO should be thinking the following in-regard-to navigation…Am I “Behind the Aircraft,” “With the Aircraft” or “Ahead of the Aircraft”…Right answer…”Ahead of the Aircraft”.</li><li>Again, besides the pilot, an ASO should not be focused primarily on the collection area but make it a point to back up the navigation of taxi, departure, en route to/from the collection area, arrival, and taxi to stop.</li><li>During an emergency, backup the pilot(s) flight situational awareness (SA) & workload by supporting the identification of the nearest “planned” or “best option” emergency airfields or landing zones. Additionally, be prepared to provide heading, distance & obstacle information to the EP landing location. Don’t forget, if applicable, your sensors can be an excellent tool to support the SA of the emergency and bring the flight to a successful conclusion.</li></ul><p><strong>Communicate:</strong></p><ul><li>An ASO should know radio procedures and etiquette. This includes knowing how to operate all communication systems associated with the aircraft and the communication-assisted devices of a Drone crew. Additionally, listen before speaking – make sure current communication exchange is over before speaking, i.e., avoid “Stepping On” someone else’s radio or intercom call. In General, be clear, concise and communicate all necessary details.</li><li>Practice Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles. CRM combines individual skills and human factors knowledge with effective crew coordination. One of the key principles is communication & cooperation (TeamWork).</li><li>During an emergency, and besides practicing communication bullets 1 & 2, be ready to back up the pilot(s) communication workload by taking the responsibility of communicating with ATC or other critical players. Having the pilot-in-command (PIC) trust in you to take this responsibility is “worth its weight in Gold & blood” and says a lot of an ASO’s abilities!</li></ul><p>Again, if you’re an ASO or Aerial Payload instructor, are the above points good to instruct student ASOs in-regard-to Aviate, Navigate, Communicate?</p><p> </p><p>ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick)</p><p>Image: Wikimedia Commons - Archangel12</p></div>
ASO Technology Trends – EO/IR
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/aso-technology-trends-eo-ir
2018-02-15T07:21:56.000Z
2018-02-15T07:21:56.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259916?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>ASOG members,</p><p>One reason for our group is to look forward and highlight trends that keep us as a community and yourself “ahead of the jet.” Below are two articles I think highlight trends in EO/IR technology and sensor-fusion. If you’ve been tracking a trend, share your thoughts and reference articles.</p><p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/print/volume-27/issue-1/special-report/eo-ir-sensors-boost-situational-awareness.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EO/IR sensors boost situational awareness</a></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2018/02/sensor-fusion-radar-electro-optical.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Air Force eyes sensor-fusion project to enhance surveillance radar by blending-in electro-optical tech</a></strong></span></p><p>Cheers!</p><p>ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick)</p><p>Image: Hunini (Wikimedia Commons)</p></div>
All in your head - VR Training
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/all-in-your-head-vr-training
2018-02-07T09:22:15.000Z
2018-02-07T09:22:15.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259949?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><div id="application-body"><div id="stream-embed"><div class="chrome-container"><div class="chrome-body"><div id="js-chrome-main" class="chrome-main"><div class="main-layout-view main-standard-layout"><div class="canvas"><div class="main-content"><div class="js-main-content"><div class="discussion-tab-layout-view"><div class="js-tab-layout-content"><div class="discussion-list-view"><div class="region-post"><div class="post-view"><p class="js-post-body post-body">ASO Group...this is a good general read...I've seen this technology slowly come to the forefront in the last few years...Can VR training/simulation improve efficiencies in the Airborne Sensor Operator community?</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><a href="http://www.flightsafetyaustralia.com/2018/02/all-in-your-head/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">All in your head</a></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">image: © Learn to Fly Melbourne</span></p></div>
ASOG News Letter, 2nd Edition
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/asog-news-letter-2nd-edition
2018-01-15T08:29:20.000Z
2018-01-15T08:29:20.000Z
Patrick Ryan
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/PatrickRyan
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259894?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p></p>
<p><b>Managing Director's Message</b></p>
<p>I would like to wish all of you a very happy, safe and prosperous 2018!</p>
<p>At the end of 2017 and five months into our existence (outside of Linked-In), we had over 80 professional members from around the world join our aircrew community, and our reach continues to grow at a good pace. Additionally, we have over 2,500 connections/followers on Linked-In and other social media sites with the same positive response.</p>
<p>What I see for 2018 regarding our group is continue to grow ASOG capabilities & services, motivate networking and enhance career opportunities by the ASOG charter (<a href="https://aso-group.ning.com/about-us">https://aso-group.ning.com/about-us</a>). </p>
<p>By this time next year, I anticipate that ASOG will be larger and more formal with a few success stories under its belt. However, the real size, sophistication, and results of ASOG will be determined by you the members.  If you’re interested in taking a more active role in the development of the Airborne Sensor Operator profession, please contact me or just go wild on the webpage. I think the adage of “THE MORE YOU PUT IN - THE MORE YOU GET OUT” is very true.</p>
<p>Speaking of that, I would like to recognize some members who have jumped in and participated since ASOG began. Their efforts, big & small, have made a difference for themselves, other ASOs, ASOG and the ASO profession in general. These members are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Wayne Dahlke</li>
<li>Georg DeCock</li>
<li>Kyle Evans</li>
<li>Phil Linning</li>
<li>Michael Sheehy</li>
<li>Mike Tucker</li>
<li>Juan Pena Ibanez</li>
<li>Joshua Cohen</li>
<li>Pierre De Backer</li>
<li>Harry Macleod</li>
</ul>
<p>Also, I would like to recognize the following firms for their support of the ASOG mission. Without the bridge between professional ASOs and the organizations that supply, support, train and hire ASOs, we will not advance as an industry:</p>
<ul>
<li>PAvCon</li>
<li>AeroEnterprise GmbH</li>
<li>Airborne Technologies GmbH</li>
<li>GOEL Training & Consulting Inc.</li>
<li>ARTEMIS</li>
<li>DTSI Consulting Inc.</li>
<li>R4 Inc.</li>
</ul>
<p>Again, I wish all of you a super 2018 and I’m looking forward to networking and collaborating with you this year! If you ever have a question or just want to cross-talk, please reach out to me.</p>
<p>Best Regards,</p>
<p>Patrick T. Ryan</p>
<p>Founder & Managing Director, ASOG</p>
<p><b>General Improvements</b></p>
<p>As part of ASOGs continuing effort to improve and help all of us as a professional network, a “Supporter” program is now up and running. Like I mentioned above, this program is designed to bridge with companies and organizations that supply, support, train and hire Airborne Sensor Operators. If you know of a company or organization that would like to associate with ASOG, please have them make contact with me (pryan@aso-group.org). Again, no fee or donation required, just recognition of ASOG's mission.</p>
<p>Additionally, an “Event” tab is now linked to the Homepage. There is nothing more rewarding than connecting with a fellow member or like-minded professionals in person. The intent of this function of the ASOG webpage is for you to announce that you’ll be at a particular event and that you want to meet. I’ll put Bitcoin on it that you’ll walk away enhancing your professional position and think twice about having the 3<sup>rd</sup> beer. If you want to use this function, go to “Homepage” and click the sub-tab “Events” then fill out the blanks…that easy!</p>
<p>Shortly, a “Publication Library” will be launched. The intent of this page, like the Link Library, is a resource for members (new & old ASOs) to use in their professional ASO career. The library will consist of community generated or donated documents, articles, checklist, slide presentations and pamphlets. So, if you have something that the community can find useful, please send it to me, and I’ll get it posted.</p>
<p>Speaking of the future, if you have an idea to improve or add to the ASOG project. Let me know. The more feedback on needs & wants will only make ASOG useful to you.</p>
<p>Talking about future ideas, some members have recommended that we beef-up our “Job Center.” If anyone knows of a good service or software that can automatically search and feed ASO or similar job postings, please let me know. I’ll take a look and implement it. Also, do we want a platform for individuals to post their resumes / CVs?</p>
<p><b>Standards & Guides Update</b></p>
<p>As part of our mission to standardize & guide our profession, several ASOG documents will be released this year. The first is:</p>
<ul>
<li>General ASO Professional Standards Guide</li>
<li>ASO Transition Checklist Guide</li>
<li>ASO Resume & Cover Letter Guide</li>
</ul>
<p>In the future, ASOG would like to post general guides on career path & training standards for specific ASO positions (Aerial Mapping & Surveying, Tactical Flight Officer, Aerial Photographer, TACCO, Tactical System Officer, etc.) and general quick reference technical guides. If you ever wanted to leave your professional mark on the world, this might be the project for you. If you’re interested, reach out to me, and we’ll collaborate.</p>
<p><b>Membership</b></p>
<p>Our new membership structure has proved very popular for networking and membership is increasing steadily.  I’m delighted to welcome our latest members since 1 Dec 2017:</p>
<ul>
<li>Kyle Evans</li>
<li>Amy Cohen</li>
<li>Jimmy Burnside</li>
<li>Howard Jackson</li>
<li>Robert</li>
<li>Adam Stiles</li>
<li>Glen Moratti</li>
<li>Aaron Bettison</li>
</ul>
<p>If you know of someone who would be interested in being a member of ASOG and advance themselves and the profession, send them to our website (<a href="http://www.aso-group.ning.com/">www.aso-group.ning.com</a>) and have them join. Remember….</p>
<p align="center"><b><i>“Birds of a feather flock together.”</i></b></p>
</div>
Payload: the reason why you are being paid!
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/payload-the-reason-why-you-are-being-paid
2017-12-17T08:36:52.000Z
2017-12-17T08:36:52.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259875?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/payload-reason-why-you-being-paid-pier-lorenzo-pessah/?trackingId=Y1HHMtTHHRRqPOJzQWY%2BUQ%3D%3D" target="_blank">Payload: the reason why you are being paid!</a></p><div><p>I think this is a very good overview of payloads and capabilities e.g. a quick reference guide. You don’t see too many ASOs take the time to post their thoughts…hint, hint folks. Is there anything you would add to Pier’s list and/or new knowledge?</p><p>ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick)</p><p>Image: YSSYguy at English Wikipedia</p></div></div>
The Disruptive Technology Revolution and the Airborne Sensor Operator!
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/the-disruptive-technology-revolution-and-the-airborne-sensor-oper
2017-12-08T18:12:51.000Z
2017-12-08T18:12:51.000Z
Patrick Ryan
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/PatrickRyan
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259873?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>We’re all aware that the information, innovation and disruptive (I2D) technology revolution is greatly affecting our world. Besides society in general, one of the main discussion points in this human experience is the effect it will have on jobs & professions in the future, i.e., ” taking the man out of the loop.” Today, the effect of this revolution in the aviation and remote-sensing sector has already started with the everyday application of scalable (size, reliability & cost) unmanned/manned air vehicle systems, sensors, and data processing capabilities. With the fog of tech revolution all around us, what effect does this have on the Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) Profession?</p>
<p>Based on my experience of over twenty-five years in the airborne remote-sensing profession, both manned and unmanned, I believe the answer to this question is twofold. The first is “<strong>Yes</strong>,” It is and will affect the ASO profession. The ASO profession is no different than other professions that are seeing or hearing the word “redundant” or “not necessary.” The threat of job loss or shrinking opportunities due to technology changes is “High.” Technology has simplified many functions that an ASO is required to accomplish…e.g… from mission planning to process data. Currently, this technological change has made the ASOs job easier, but the next tech change (which is coming) could be less forgiving regard to “need” of a person in the traditional aerial collection process. Bottom-line, denial, and resistance to this change will only decrease opportunities for ASOs to provide a needed service regarding aerial remote-sensing capabilities to both its clients and society in general.</p>
<p>The second part of this answer is “<strong>No</strong>”…it will not affect the ASO community as it did to the Air Navigator or other professions…ie…extinction.  However, by history or definition when it comes to aerial remote-sensing, ASOs have always been in a critical position (more so than pilots, flight engineers & navigators) of managing or influencing aerial remote-sensing technology & data. The ASO profession is the Technical Liaison between the collection platform, sensor, and the end-user. Typically, the ASO comes from the end-user community (be it surveying, cinematography, public safety or ISR) with the ability/skill to satisfy collection requirements from the sky. Because of this position, the ASO profession can adapt to the fog of tech revolution better than many professions and continue to satisfy a critical need. Bottom-line, individual ASOs will need to abandon old professional models and innovate new roles & responsibilities as aerial remote-sensing technology changes. How does this look like ASOs will need to expand out of the back seat and take more of a technical or operator lead in the development, implementation, and employment of new aerial/remote-sensing technology at the controls & back offices. Additionally, to be a lead, ASOs will need to adapt to a never-ending rhythm of continual learning & certifying with new systems, aerial platforms, and processes. </p>
<p>So, to Taxi this post to Parking, the I2D tech revolution is in full swing, and many professions are at risk. The professions that have a chance, because of their technical & client base knowledge & relationship, will adapt & succeed effectively with the advancement of technology. However, the only way for a profession like the Airborne Sensor Operator to leverage their position and advance it into the future is to re-learn, lead and innovate.  I believe the ASO in the aerial remote-sensing sector is in a perfect position be it on the ground or in the air!</p>
<p>So, what are your thoughts? Does our profession have a future?</p>
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<p>Image: Wikimedia commons - Mattbuck</p>
<p></p>
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The ISR Aerostat (Sensor) Operator: Who are they and what they do!
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/the-isr-aerostat-sensor-operator-who-are-they-and-what-they-do
2017-11-11T08:39:57.000Z
2017-11-11T08:39:57.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259870?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>In the last 30 years, the Aerostat aircraft has undergone tremendous changes in both mission and sensor equipment. If you don’t know what an Aerostat is, it’s a low-level airborne ground surveillance system that uses aerostats (moored balloons) as a sensor & communications platform, i.e., an unmanned aerial vehicle. Along with these changes, the roles & responsibilities of the operator have also changed to include managing sensors.</p><p><b>Today's Aerostat Operator </b></p><p>Jump forward to today, and the individuals who manage the mission of an Aerostat is commonly known as the Aerostat Operator (AO). On the ISR side of the house the AO, besides managing the flight of the Aerostat, is responsible for quite a mix of cutting-edge technologies and radios.</p><p>The ISR Aerostat platform of today is usually fielded to provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support to include the Persistent Threat Detection System (PTDS) and Persistent Ground Surveillance System (PGSS). The ISR Aerostat aircraft is considered part of the Quick Reaction Capability (QRC) that provides integrated persistent surveillance, detection capabilities, and Full Motion Video (FMV) dissemination to Tactical Operation Centers (TOC). The Aerostat system integrates different sensors to detect small arms fires and Counter Improvised Explosive Device (IED) activity near airfields, fixed-base encampments, forward operating locations, and other facilities in support of rapid reaction security forces in the area of operation.</p><p>Considering all the flight oversight of the platform and the sensor operations an AO must manage during a routine mission or shift, the AO of today is often multi-tasked like other aircrews. While keeping one eye on the threat, they’re also watching the flight status of the airship and all the elements that provide critical support. Also, there’re usually two or more tactical radios, chats or land-lines buzzing asking a million questions about the situation.</p><p>Besides the AO managing all the system maintenance, sensor operations, and mission duties, he or she must maintain and provide attention to his or her primary duty: safety-of-flight. Even with all the responsibilities of the force protection mission, the AO must always look for conflicting aircraft activity and weather conditions.</p><p>Like with other flight operations, if additional tasking is assigned, it’s often the AO that interacts to complete the mission. For example, if the Aerostat system needs to relocate, the AO must coordinate to make sure all the elements of the system is mobilized in a quick-reaction manner and doesn’t miss a beat in operational readiness. </p><p><b>Selection and Training</b></p><p>Most companies and organizations have a formalized selection process for AOs. Among the usual hiring criteria considered are work records, experience, and technical skills. Any flying experience is considered, but many successful AOs have limited or no prior aviation experience. However, after completing Aerostat training and building mission hours, they develop a baseline aviation skill set.</p><p>Training programs have also become much more formal and structured. Current training consists of formal classroom, simulation, and in-flight events to learn how to manage and use all the technology and resources available. The newly assigned AO must learn quite a bit about a sometimes completely strange environment. They learn to speak aviation with such terms like transponders, safety management systems and aircraft de-confliction to name just a few. Although every organization has different requirements, many training programs from start to a fully qualified AO can take anywhere from xx months to a year. This does not include any additional even-more-specialized training that an AO might need. If the AO does multi-duty work such as special system repairs or management duties, the AO has additional training.</p><p>Once fully mission qualified, there is constant recurrence training. As with most technologies, equipment and capabilities change rapidly, and the AO is expected to keep up with any changes or new mission equipment that becomes available.</p><p>One could say that a surveillance aircraft is just an aircraft until a properly trained Operator makes it a true surveillance platform. Operating in such demanding conditions requires all the same skills as a good ISR or any aerial work crewmember:</p><ul><li>Planning, and Coordinating Expertise</li><li>Technical adept </li><li>Personal Leadership and Integrity</li><li>Communication (written and oral)</li><li>Accountability for Results</li></ul><p>Bottom-line, the Aerostat aircraft has come a long way since its employment. Additionally, the Operators have also come along way in their roles & responsibilities. Todays Aerostat Operator is more than a ground crew managing a tethered airship; they’re aircraft maintainer, pilot and sensor operator all in one. In many ways similar to a sUAS/RPA operator.</p></div>
IMSAR unveils longer-range SAR radar
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/imsar-unveils-longer-range-sar-radar
2017-11-01T18:46:58.000Z
2017-11-01T18:46:58.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><p><a href="https://www.c4isrnet.com/intel-geoint/sensors/2017/10/23/imsar-unveils-longer-range-sar-radar/" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2191355?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" height="209" alt="2191355?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" /></a></p>
<p>ASOG Members, I just wanted to share this article (click image). The main purpose is to highlight the concept of Pod Sensor Systems. From my perspective, this tech concept (like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) opens the door to many more uses of aerial remote-sensing be it civilian, public safety or defense. What do you think, plus, what other affordable Pods are available today?</p>
<p>If you want to know more about the SAR system highlighted in this article, please reach out to Scott H....He's one of us! You can find him in the members' directory.</p>
<p>ASOG Desk Editor</p></div>
Job Announcement – Mission Systems Flight Instructor
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/job-announcement-mission-systems-flight-instructor
2017-10-27T12:22:43.000Z
2017-10-27T12:22:43.000Z
ASOG Career Center
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGCareerCenter
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259887?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>ASOG Members,</p><p>Job Announcement from the ASOG Career Center, Wayne in our group just relayed another opportunity for those ASOs in the ISR sector and who are qualified instructors, i.e., <b>Mission Systems Flight Instructor (Job No. 644874)</b>. The hiring company is Leidos, and the job location is Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD U.S.A. The basic job duties & responsibilities are:</p><ul><li>Create, validate and execute ground-based academic training in a classroom</li><li>Create, validate and execute mission-oriented, scenario-based flight training</li><li>Create, maintain, and document student training progress, using appropriate Army standards and forms</li><li>Create, update and modify training items in appropriate Army databases</li><li>Assist with test and evaluation of MEP systems as part of validation of training</li></ul><p>If you’re interested, please go to ASOG Career Center – Job Postings or contact Wayne in our group.</p><p>Thanks, Everyone!</p><p>ASOG Career Center</p></div>
Airborne Sensor Operator Professional Development - Walk and Talk
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/airborne-sensor-operator-professional-development-walk-and-talk
2017-10-18T17:08:37.000Z
2017-10-18T17:08:37.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259865?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>As an Airborne Sensor Operator Group (ASOG) member, you know how important professional development is, i.e., one reason you joined this network/group. </p><p>“Professional development is learning to earn or maintain professional credentials such as academic degrees to formal coursework, conferences and informal learning opportunities situated in practice. It has been described as intensive and collaborative, ideally incorporating an evaluative stage. There are a variety of approaches to professional development, including consultation, coaching, communities of practice, lesson study, mentoring, reflective supervision and technical assistance.” (Wikipedia)</p><p>One of my favorite professional development TTP (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures), and there are many others, is attending Trade Shows & Conferences. When it comes to improving my professional knowledge and strengthen my career, there’s no substitute for a live learning event like a trade show or conference. By interacting with a roomful or exhibit hall of peers, asking questions of subject matter experts, and examining real-world applications of the information you’re focused on, it helps cement your knowledge & connections.</p><p>Yes, most trade shows and conferences are expensive, but if you’re able to get your employer to send you or budget your funds to attend, take advantage of it. Also, before attending have a plan of what you want to learn, experience and whom to connect with, this will maximize your investment.</p><p>Additionally, to go above and beyond just attending, try to become a guest speaker. Going through the processes and sharing your professional experiences and knowledge will double your knowledge & connections.</p><p>For reference, below is a list of events that relate to the Airborne Sensor Operator profession (Civilian, Public Safety, and Defense). If you know of any other events that relate to the Airborne Sensor Operator profession, please speak up. (Note: The list below was randomly selected from the internet based on their relationship to the ASO profession…ASOG has no connection with these events. Also, see the home page for additional events around the world and for the different industry sectors).</p><p>ICASDM 2018: 20th International Conference on Aerial Surveying and Digital Mapping</p><p>Dubai, UAE</p><p>April 9 - 10, 2018</p><p> </p><p>Commercial UAV Expo 2017</p><p>Commercial Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Expo</p><p>24 Oct 2017 - 26 Oct 2017</p><p>84 days to go</p><p>Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino</p><p> </p><p>Maritime Reconnaissance and Surveillance Summit</p><p>26 September, 2017 - 28 September, 2017</p><p>Rome, Italy</p><p> </p><p>ISR & C2 Battle Management US conference</p><p>7 November 2017 - 9 November 2017</p><p>Bethesda, United States</p><p> </p><p>Maritime Security & Coastal Surveillance Conference</p><p>28 November 2017 - 29 November 2017</p><p>Singapore, Singapore</p><p> </p><p>ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick Ryan)</p></div>
Trial by fire: Training for the ISR flight
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/trial-by-fire-training-for-the-isr-flight
2017-10-09T17:50:59.000Z
2017-10-09T17:50:59.000Z
ASOG Desk Editor
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/ASOGDeskEditor
<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2259855?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>ASOG members...especially for the ISR community. this is a good article on sensor planning..."Part math and part art form, sensor planning should not be confused with the standard flight or mission plan."</p><p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://mil-embedded.com/articles/trial-fire-training-the-isr-flight/" target="_blank">Trial by fire: Training for the ISR flight</a></p></div>
What’s Your ISR Sensor Operator Vetting Process?
https://aso-group.ning.com/blog-board/what-s-your-isr-sensor-operator-vetting-process
2017-09-15T00:25:18.000Z
2017-09-15T00:25:18.000Z
Wayne Dahlke
https://aso-group.ning.com/members/WayneDahlke
<div><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2191329?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2191329?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-center" width="750"></a>Finding the right person to fill a position is always a challenge. Will they fit in with the culture of your company or unit? In the airborne sensing business, this can be an extremely tricky question, and it depends upon the position you are trying to fill.</p>
<p>If you need an operator to run a sensor in a low threat, low altitude, civilian aircraft in a non-combat area, then almost anyone with average technical skills, average common sense, and average ability will be able to do the work, unless they have some previously undiscovered motion sickness or fear of flying issue. One could say, these types of missions are “low threat, routine” and any competent person can do them without much hassle, and only minimal training is required on how to run the systems.</p>
<p>However, if you are trying to find a person who can run a sensor (of any kind) in a combat zone and have direct contact with the “customer” on the ground, you MUST set up your criteria for what you want representing you and your company. The individual you hire may be the hottest thing on two wheels during routine, day-in day-out, pattern of life style missions, but on “THAT DAY,” you need someone who can handle the pressure of doing it right the first time, every time.</p>
<p>When I was on active duty in the Air Force, we were not allowed to remove a student from training without cause. With pressure from the headquarters to constantly turn out more and more operators (because we were always undermanned), we wanted to identify early which of our prospective students were most likely to need extra attention, or possibly would need more unusual training methods to get the instruction to “stick.” Since these individuals would also be flying with us when we deployed, we had a vested interest in making sure they were the best we could make them.</p>
<p> We devised a “vetting” process we would use for our prospective students. The student candidates had to accomplish the following, simultaneously, for an hour:</p>
<ol>
<li>Play HALO (or any other storyline, first person shooter game) on medium and not die.</li>
<li>Monitor a second screen with CNN, FOX or some other national news outlet, with a news scroll bar across the bottom, and keep track of what was scrolling.</li>
<li>Listen to an audio book in their left ear, and be able to relate the major plot lines and characters of the story.</li>
<li>Listen to a music play list in their right ear, and keep track of which songs they had heard.</li>
</ol>
<p>We did not expect (nor did we ever achieve) a perfect score. But, what we did learn was that students who had the hand eye coordination, prioritization skills, and ability to train themselves to pay attention to what was important at that moment, had a much higher success rate than those who were natively <u>unable</u> to handle these tasks.</p>
<p>In the aircraft, it happens MUCH faster, and the consequences are simply life and death.</p>
<p>As instructors and trainers of military flyers, this was the most realistic vetting we could come up with that could approximate the average workload on a combat mission profile.</p>
<p>Our operators had to be able to track a moving target with a camera, and not lose PID, listen to the combat chatter of the ground team we were supporting, and make sure we were fully informed of what their locations, plans, and current actions were. We also had to keep track of our aircraft position relative to our currently assigned airspace and altitude block, keep track of the pilots’ coordination with the airspace control authority, as well as any other supporting aircraft that were in the same piece of airspace with us. We then had to be able to relay ALL this information to the ground force commander, so he or she was fully informed of the activities in their command area, in preparation for, or in direct support of, combat operations.</p>
<p>In the airborne sensor world, defining what you expect from your operators clearly and establishing an effective “vetting” process, and then training them to do the job properly will ensure a positive result. Having the right and well-trained crew member will help the individual, the crew, and the unit gets the job done right the first time, every time.</p></div>