Tamara Patrick

Founder and CEO, AVRS Group

Tamara Patrick is a visionary public safety leader and the Founder and CEO of AVRS Group. With a distinguished career in law enforcement, training, and standards development, Tamara is passionate about leveraging technology and innovation to enhance public safety and emergency response. Her extensive experience with the California Highway Patrol and the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training has equipped her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing first responders in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

At AVRS Group, Tamara leads a team of experts dedicated to providing cutting-edge training and support to first responders. Her commitment to excellence, combined with her strategic vision, drives the company’s mission to empower first responders with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively navigate the complexities of automated vehicle technology and ensure the safety of their communities.

Jaeson White

Field Services Executive

Jaeson White is a highly accomplished law enforcement executive and attorney with a distinguished career dedicated to public safety, incident command, and community engagement. He currently works to build crucial relationships between autonomous vehicle companies and first responders. This role leverages his extensive experience in leadership, training, and fostering partnerships to ensure the safe and effective integration of autonomous vehicles into communities.

Jaeson’s impressive 34-year career includes serving as the Chief of Police for the Missoula Police Department, where he provided executive leadership for the police department. He also held numerous roles of increasing responsibility within the California Highway Patrol, culminating in his position as Assistant Chief, where he oversaw information technology, information security, and cybercrimes. Jaeson holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific – McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration/Criminal Justice from California State University, Chico. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Ryan Stonebraker

Advisor, Physical Security & Passenger Safety

Chief Ryan Stonebraker brings over 25 years of law enforcement experience, culminating in his role as Chief with the CHP. His expertise in physical security and protection is demonstrated through leadership roles in the CHP’s Protective Services Division, where he was responsible for the safety of state elected officials and facilities. He has a deep understanding of homeland security, threat assessment, and emergency management, having directed California’s Fusion Center and chaired the state’s threat assessment system. Chief Stonebraker is a proven leader with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, honed through managing complex investigations and critical incidents. His experience with advanced security technology at Flock Safety and his Master’s degree in Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, and Peacebuilding further enhance his qualifications for this advisory role.

Peter Telhia

Regional First Responder Liaison (Fire/EMS)

Retired Division Chief Peter Teliha is a highly accomplished fire service executive with 30 years of experience driving excellence and innovation within organizations. He is an autonomous vehicle expert who is currently leveraging his experience to educate agencies on emerging AV technologies and best practices.

As a public safety veteran, he is passionate about innovations that save lives and property. From incident command and wildfire response to managing complex multi-million-dollar logistics projects, he has consistently worked to improve system processes and boost organizational effectiveness. Peter is keen to share the safety benefits of automated vehicles and to ensure that new innovations and advancements are safely and effectively integrated into our communities.

Peter is leading nation-wide conversations to explore the synergy of autonomy, data sharing, and community-based mobility. This novel exploration allows him to continue his lifelong mission of public service, innovation and creating a safer future for all. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design from Texas A&M University and is credentialed in multiple Department of Homeland Security, FEMA National Incident Management, and ICS positions.

Johnny Starling

Advisor, Transportation Security & Risk Management

Johnny Starling, a seasoned law enforcement executive with expertise in incident command, risk management, and threat assessment, brings a unique perspective to the evolving transportation sector. His background in dignitary protection and security operations, including the California Highway Patrol and Governor’s Protective Detail, demonstrates a deep understanding of strategic planning and safety protocols. As a dedicated instructor, he is passionate about sharing his knowledge to enhance transportation safety. Mr. Starling’s commitment to public safety and his insights into the complexities of modern transportation make him a valuable asset in developing effective solutions for the increasingly complex and autonomous transportation systems. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Management from Bellevue University.

Dr. John Satterfield

Advisor, Strategic Initiatives & Educational Initiatives

Dr. John Satterfield is a seasoned law enforcement executive with over 30 years of experience in a major metropolitan Sheriffs Department. His career is marked by a commitment to public safety, strategic leadership, and innovative training programs. As a former Chief of Staff, he has a proven track record of overseeing department-wide initiatives and fostering collaboration. Dr. Satterfield’s expertise in incident command showcases his ability to manage critical situations and ensure safety. He is a recognized expert in law enforcement training, translating complex concepts into practical skills. His dedication to best practices makes him a sought-after instructor. Holding an Ed.D. from USC and Master Instructor certification, Dr. Satterfield’s unique blend of experience makes him an invaluable asset in navigating the complexities of integrating new technologies into our transportation system.

Amira Eppolito

Advisor, Law Enforcement Operations & Incident Management

Captain Amira Eppolito brings nearly three decades of law enforcement experience to AVRS Group. Starting as a patrol officer and rising to a commanding officer, with extensive experience leading investigations, she has a deep understanding of police operations. Amira is committed to public safety, spearheading initiatives for crime reduction and community trust-building. Her leadership extends to officer development, designing training curricula for effective policing. As a Master Instructor, she ensures officers have the necessary skills in an evolving environment. Her incident command experience, including serving as a watch commander, highlights her ability to make rapid, strategic decisions during critical incidents. Amira’s dedication to public service, combined with her Master’s in Executive Leadership from USC, makes her an invaluable asset.

Judah Mitchell

Regional First Responder Liaison (Fire/EMS)

Judah is a dedicated and experienced fire service leader with over 28 years of progressively responsible experience, culminating in his role as Deputy Chief of Operations for the Santa Monica Fire Department. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. Judah possesses a strong foundation in all aspects of fire and rescue operations, including training, resource management, emergency response, and hazardous materials handling. He is a passionate advocate for continuous improvement through progressive training and is known for his strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to public safety.

Now applying his expertise to the evolving landscape of automated vehicles, Judah develops and delivers specialized training programs for first responders. He acts as a vital liaison between the AV industry and public safety agencies, ensuring seamless collaboration and knowledge transfer as this technology is integrated into communities across the United States. His well-developed leadership and analytical skills, combined with his extensive experience in the fire service, make him uniquely qualified to navigate the intersection of public safety and autonomous vehicle technology.

Kaya Stanley

President, CEO and General Counsel

Kaya Stanley is a seasoned attorney specializing in regulatory compliance, program implementation, and training initiatives. With extensive experience advising industries on navigating complex legal frameworks, she brings a unique ability to translate intricate regulations into actionable strategies.

Previously, Kaya served as General Counsel for a rapidly expanding national franchise, guiding its growth from 30 to 1,000 locations while ensuring compliance with evolving state and federal laws. She has also worked with leading national operators, crafting innovative legal solutions for regulatory challenges and operational efficiencies.

In addition to her legal expertise, Kaya has a strong background in creating and implementing training programs tailored to stakeholder needs, from municipal leaders to large-scale operators. Her ability to streamline processes and ensure operational safety makes her an integral part of AVRS Group’s mission to prepare communities for autonomous vehicle integration.

Kevin Stanley

COO

Kevin Stanley is a seasoned technology and business strategist with over 25 years of cross-industry experience. His experience includes progressively expanding roles from Senior Manager to VP of Global Operations in a variety of both technical, software and manufacturing industries. Kevin possesses broad knowledge and experience in conducting and designing RFPs, incorporating appropriate service level agreements, and subsequently managing global vendors through successful service delivery.

As a leader, Kevin has excelled at aligning technical services and business operations with strategic goals that serve the needs of both internal and external stakeholders, delivering results by leading global operations, incident management, and IT technical services through complex phases of corporate change, such as growth, divestiture, or acquisition.

Scott Campbell

Regional First Responder Liaison (Law Enforcement)

Scott Campbell is a seasoned public safety professional with over 30 years of experience in law enforcement. He began his career with the California Highway Patrol and later spent 20 years in the FBI, leading complex organized crime investigations. After retiring from the FBI, he served as a Bureau Chief for the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, overseeing key programs and ensuring law enforcement standards.

Scott is also a leading expert on autonomous vehicles, dedicating his time to educating first responders about this technology. He develops and delivers comprehensive training programs to prepare law enforcement and fire departments for the safe integration of autonomous vehicles.

With his extensive background in law enforcement, commitment to public safety, and expertise in autonomous vehicle technology, Scott is a valuable resource in the evolving world of transportation. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento.

Arnold Hardy

Regional First Responder Liaison (Law Enforcement)

Arnold is a law enforcement executive with over 28 years of experience with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), where he rose to the rank of Commander. During his time with the CHP, Arnold honed his skills in enforcement, policy development, media relations, government affairs, and investigations, building a strong foundation for his work in the automated vehicle sector. As Chair of the Autonomous Vehicle Working Group for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, he spearheaded national collaborations to enhance safety and law enforcement practices.

Arnold is a recognized leader in training first responders on autonomous vehicle technology, developing comprehensive programs to ensure they can interact safely and effectively with these vehicles. Arnold’s expertise bridges the gap between complex technology and practical application, making him a sought-after speaker and instructor.

Arnold holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development from the University of California, Davis. His commitment to public safety, expertise in autonomous vehicle technology, and passion for training make him a valuable asset in the evolving transportation landscape.