About WNK
Waylon Carlson is a highly accomplished military veteran and technology leader with a diverse range of expertise. Born in Michigan, Waylon enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 and embarked on a remarkable military career.
During his military service, Waylon served in various capacities, including avionics technician, HH-60H Rescue Swimmer, aerial gunnery instructor, Air Mission Commander, and MH-60S Weapon & Tactics Instructor (WTI) Pilot. Waylon was appointed as a Naval Aviator under the Flying Chief Warrant Officer program before crossing over as an Unrestricted Line Officer. He completed seven deployments to U.S. Central Command and numerous short-term detachments throughout Central and South America. His skill earned him numerous accolades and medals.
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After retiring, Waylon transitioned into the private sector and made significant contributions in the field of technology. He worked at ADS Inc as the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Category Manager, where he focused on strengthening business-to-business partnerships in the drone & counter-drone industries. In this role, Waylon fielded $371M of equipment to U.S. Government customers, solidifying his expertise in the field.
Waylon's passion for technology & innovation led him to become the Director of Global Government Alliances at Skydio Inc. In this role, he spearheaded the international expansion of small autonomous drones into 42 countries across four continents. His expertise in artificial intelligence, computer vision, remote operations, digital twins, cybersecurity, and electronic warfare payloads proved invaluable in fielding 4,667 drones to govt customers.
As the Naval Special Warfare Air Liaison Officer embedded with U.S. Special Operations Command, he plays a
pivotal role in coordinating and synchronizing general-purpose force and Special Operations Forces rotary wing,
fixed wing, and drone assets for SEAL Teams TWO, FOUR, EIGHT, and TEN.
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​In addition to his corporate endeavors, Waylon founded WNK Aviation Inc. where he serves as the Chief Executive Officer. He also holds the position of Fellowship Director in a 51-business consortium that focuses on U.S. Government and allied nation technology adoption, education, training, and mentorship. Through these ventures, Waylon provides integrated counter UAS solutions, drones, communication devices, Post Quantum Cryptography networks, and rapid Research & Development.
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Waylon's educational background includes a B.A. in Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness from Thomas
Edison State University, an A.A. in Electronics Technology from Coastline College, and an Engineering Leadership
certificate from Cornell University. Beyond his professional achievements, Waylon is an avid ultra-marathon runner and resides in Virginia with his family.
