Olivier Defawe

Olivier Defawe Ph.D. has a diverse work experience spanning various industries and roles. Olivier started their career as a PhD student at the University of Liege and later became a Senior Fellow at the University of Washington. Olivier then worked at the HIV Vaccine Trials Network FHCRC, where they held positions as an Operation Manager, Faculty Staff Scientist, and Data Manager.

In 2012, Defawe joined the International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH) as a Health Information Systems Implementation Specialist. During their time at I-TECH, they managed the implementation of digital solutions in resource-limited countries, strengthening the quality of patient information and laboratory data.

Defawe's involvement in the field of drone technology began in 2015 when they joined VillageReach as a Senior Manager, later transitioning to the roles of Director of Health Systems and Director of Private Sector Engagement. In these positions, they led the design and implementation of health system innovations, including the use of drones for payload delivery and laboratory sample delivery. Olivier also managed relationships with government agencies and donors.

In addition to their work at VillageReach, Defawe has been involved in the drone industry in various capacities. Olivier founded and coordinated the UAV for Payload Delivery Working Group (UPDWG), a global network promoting the use of drones for public health and supply chain improvement. Olivier has also served as an External Consultant for Pharma.Aero, advising on the use of cargo drones for medical goods delivery.

Defawe has also contributed to the drone community by serving as a judge for Airwards, a global awards scheme recognizing positive drone use cases. Olivier has been involved in the African Drone Forum as a judge for the Lake Kivu Challenge Flying Competition and the African Drone Business Challenge. Additionally, they organized the "Drone Logistics" track at the African Drone Forum, focusing on integrating drone operations into health supply chains.

Overall, Olivier Defawe Ph.D. has extensive experience in health systems innovation, digital solutions implementation, and the use of drones for public health and supply chain improvement. Olivier has also contributed significantly to the advancement and coordination of efforts in the drone industry.

Olivier Defawe Ph.D. obtained their Master of Science from the University of Washington in 2001. Following that, they pursued their doctoral studies in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Liège, completing their Ph.D. in 2005.