The Hartford UAV Challenge aims to provide a safe annual competitive environment for UAV enthusiasts of all levels to demonstrate their technical and piloting abilities; to advance the development of new technology; and to promote the Connecticut companies and individuals which excel in the development and application of this technology.

The event management team is being led by Steven Yanicke, President of MakeHartford and Philip Huerter.

Steven Yanicke is the founder of MakeHartford, a community nonprofit makerspace in Hartford as well an IT agile project manager at a Fortune 50 financial company. He has been managing projects and events for over 10 years in both small and large businesses. Before working in corporate America he founded, or significantly contributed to, several technology startups and a web development firm. In 2013 he organized the first TEDxBushnellPark, a full day event with 18 speakers and many distinguished guests. Mr. Yanicke has taught at several universities and previously served as president of The Hartford NAF Academy Foundation. He received his Bachelors of Fine Art in illustration from University of Hartford and is a graduate of Leadership Greater Hartford's Quest Leadership Development Program. He has resided in downtown Hartford for more than a decade.