From Mission to Mission:
A Veteran's Commitment to Tactical Innovation
meet the team
our capabilities
Experience Is The Difference
Tough Stump Technologies is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business that fuses nearly 60 years of combined experience with the latest technologies relevant to small unit tactics. Tough Stump Technologies continuously excels in developing and implementing simple solutions to the complex problems our clients face. U.S. federal/state government agencies, private and non-profit organizations, and special operations groups across the globe benefit from our experiential proficiency with tactical communication readiness, situational awareness toolkits (e.g. ATAK), and the latest remote sensing and SUAS technology to collect and process ultra-high resolution (1.5” per pixel) imagery.
Our practical expertise in utilizing advanced comms equipment, payload-capable drones, and terrestrial photogrammetry in austere and disconnected environments is surpassed only by our ability to teach clients how to harness these technologies and integrate them appropriately into their operations.
- Executive team -
Chief Strategy Officer
Dustin Hillis
email
email
dustin@toughstump.com
Chief Financial Officer
Erica Martin
e.martin@toughstump.com
chief marketing officer
zebj@toughstump.com
ZEB JAILLET
- UMX Cell -
UMX SME / Instructor
jonathan riggs
email
email
j.riggs@toughstump.com
UMX CELL LEAD
Jesse Schrader
j.schrader@toughstump.com
UMX SME / Instructor
Simon malson
s.malson@toughstump.com
UMX SME / Instructor
MANNY LOZANO
manny@toughstump.com
- LOGISTICS -
email
email
Logistics SME & Mechanic
megan wright
m.wright@toughstump.com
Director of Logistics and Facilities
Mark McBride
m.mcbride@toughstump.com
Logistics SME
PAUL JULIAN
p.julian@toughstump.com
Marketing Content Manager
christina.i@toughstump.com
Christina Isaacs
- social media/MARKETING -
email
email
- Business development -
Business Development
JIMMY LARSEN
j.larsen@toughstump.com
IT SME
arlene.r@toughstump.com
Arlene Reynolds
- IT -
president & COO
ben@toughstump.com
Ben Brown
CEO
jarrett@toughstump.com
Jarrett Heavenston
Headquarters team members
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more team members
Executive team members
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more team members
Chief Strategy Officer
Dustin Hillis
dustin@toughstump.com
Chief Financial Officer
Erica Martin
e.martin@toughstump.com
chief marketing officer
zebj@toughstump.com
ZEB JAILLET
programs
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more team members
atos program manager
j.kordes@toughstump.com
Jon Kordes
director of program management
Rob harley
robh@toughstump.com
UMX cell
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more team members
umx cell lead
J.Schrader@toughstump.com
Jesse Schrader
umx sme / instructor
s.malson@toughstump.com
simon malson
project manager
manny lozano
manny@toughstump.com
UMX cell
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more team members
umx sme / instructor
j.riggs@toughstump.com
jonathan riggs
SPECIALIZED TRAINING CELL
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Specialized Training Cell Lead
jimbo@toughstump.com
James “Jimbo” Michael
software development
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Software engineer
ROBBY RIVENBARK
r.rivenbark@toughstump.com
logistics team members
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Logistics SME
PAUL JULIAN
paul.julian@toughstump.com
Director of Logistics and Facilities
MARK MCBRIDE
m.mcbride@toughstump.com
Logistics SME & mechanic
megan wright
m.wright@toughstump.com
Business Operations team members
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Procurement Manager
Christine Westbrook
Cwbrook@toughstump.com
staff accountant
mary mitchell
mary.mitchell@toughstump.com
BUSINESS development
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BD manager
JIMMY LARSEN
j.larsen@toughstump.com
social media/marketing
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more team members
Marketing Content Manager
Christina.I@toughstump.com
Christina Isaacs
social media/marketing
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more team members
it sme
a.reynolds@toughstump.com
arlene reynolds
Schedule a meeting today
to learn more about our team of elite professionals and how we can help you accomplish your mission.
JARRETT (Fish) HEAVENSTON
CEO
Jarrett founded Tough Stump Technologies with a bold vision to revolutionize “Tactical Mapping” (and maybe make paper maps jealous in the process). With 25 years of distinguished military experience, he’s a master of enhancing the operational effectiveness of organizations dedicated to justice and integrity—helping them shoot, move, and communicate like a well-oiled tactical machine. As an FAA Part 107 certified remote pilot, Jarrett blends cutting-edge technology with battlefield savvy, proving that innovation and precision aren’t just buzzwords—they’re his bread and butter.
ABOUT:
Zeb Jaillet
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
After 24 years as an Air Force Combat Controller, Zeb joined Tough Stump in 2019. He now serves as Chief Marketing Officer, leading strategy, storytelling, and outreach that connect the team’s capabilities with mission partners worldwide. He’s also a recognized expert in small UAS and tactical networking, having designed and delivered specialized training across the globe.
Zeb holds a B.S. in Information Technology, a B.B.A., an A.A.S. in Airway Management, and an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certification. A Bronze Star recipient with Valor, he brings the same determination and creativity to marketing Tough Stump’s vision that he brought to the battlefield—because “saving the day” is still part of the job.
ABOUT:
BENJAMIN BROWN
president and COO
Ben is a dynamic triple threat: unmanned pilot, manned pilot, and business executive—if it flies or strategizes, he’s your guy. As the president and co-founder of Tough Stump Technologies, he’s taken tactical mapping to new heights (quite literally). A proud graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2008, and holder of a Master of Military Arts & Science with a focus on Joint Warfare, Ben seamlessly blends sky-high expertise with grounded business acumen. Whether he's navigating the skies or charting the next big innovation, Ben keeps things soaring to new levels of excellence.
ABOUT:
JIMBO MICHAEL
SPECIALIZED TRAINING CELL lead
Jimbo, an Air Force TACP veteran, has seamlessly transitioned into an information leader, bringing a wealth of expertise in all things Tough Stump. He’s the kind of guy who can create a communications network out of thin air—literally. A true master of ATAK, ATOS, and communications, Jimbo's leadership style is as sharp as his skills. After 25 years of service, he’s now sharing his knowledge and passion for teaching, helping others master the art of tactical tech. When he’s not leading a training session, you can bet he’s got a great story or two—because, let’s be honest, 25 years in the Air Force makes for some pretty legendary tales.
ABOUT:
ARLENE REYNOLDS
IT SME
Arlene gave the US Air Force 21 years of service where her information tech skills were honed.
ABOUT:
TIM BRAUCH
SURVEY PROJECT LEAD
Tim came to Tough Stump by way of assault zone specialist. A 21-year Air Force veteran and Combat Controller, Tim particular skills add another layer of depth to our already talented cadre.
ABOUT:
MIKE LANZAFAMA
ARTEMIS Instructor / Operator
A veteran of over 30 years of service in the US Army as an enlisted man, NCO, Warrant Officer, and Commissioned Officer, Master Aviator with over 4600 flight hours and eleven combat tours in an OH-58D, AH-6M, and AH-64D/E. An expert in US and NATO Special Operation Air Command and Control.
- LTC(R)
- BACHELOR OF HELICOPTER
- MASTER OF PALEONTOLOGY ARTS
- FAA PART 107 REMOTE PILOT
- REAL PILOT
- BRONZE STAR
PERSONAL(ITY):
PROFESSIONAL:
MANNY LOZANO
UMX SME / Instructor
Manny is a man of many hats - and he wears them all with style. A retired Army veteran with over 20 years of experience in the Special Operations community, he brings deep operational expertise to every challenge. Serving as one of Tough Stump’s UMX Subject Matter Experts and an Instructor, Manny develops and delivers training that ensures operators get the most out of unmanned systems in the field. On top of that, he’s an ARTEMIS maintainer, proving he’s just as skilled at keeping high-tech systems running as he is at teaching others how to master them. Whether it needs to be flown, fixed, or fine-tuned, Manny’s your guy.
ABOUT:
CHRISTINE WESTBROOK
Procurement Manager
Christine is a powerhouse of skills wrapped in a dynamic, military-grade package. As a military brat, veteran, and spouse, she’s mastered the fine art of balancing structure with flexibility—think drill sergeant meets yoga instructor. With four years of service in the USAF and 22 years of affiliation with the Special Operations community, she knows the true meaning of "service before self" and getting the mission accomplished. Whether it’s keeping the team tight or ensuring everyone’s flying true, Christine is the glue that holds it all together.
ABOUT:
JIMMY LARSEN
Business Development manager
Jimmy is a 20-year Air Force Combat Controller veteran who traded the battlefield for the boardroom—though he still thrives on high-stakes missions. After a distinguished military career marked by precision and leadership, Jimmy now spearheads business development for Tough Stump, where he combines tactical expertise with strategic savvy. Whether he’s crafting game-changing strategies or closing deals with laser focus, Jimmy ensures the mission is always a success. His knack for building relationships and finding solutions makes him the ultimate closer—just don’t ask him to negotiate without coffee.
ABOUT:
ROB HARLEY
director of program management
After 20 years in US Army Special Operations, Rob transitioned from the jump door to Tough Stump, bringing with him the discipline, adaptability, and precision of a seasoned operator. Today, he serves as Director of Program Management, overseeing projects that drive innovation, integration, and mission success. A quiet professional with an unwavering focus on operational excellence, Rob ensures programs are executed with the same meticulous planning and flawless execution that defined his military career. Whether it’s managing complex initiatives or guiding ARTEMIS operations, Rob is the steady hand that keeps Tough Stump on target - no parachute required.
ABOUT:
Robby Rivenbark
Software Engineer
After earning his computer science degree from NCSU, Robby made the leap to the Tough Stump team, bringing his problem-solving prowess along for the ride. As a tech wizard and software development aficionado, he’s the mastermind behind many of Tough Stump’s technological advancements. If there’s a coding challenge to conquer or a system to streamline, Robby’s the one making it happen—and probably cracking a few jokes while he’s at it. When it comes to innovation, he’s the go-to guy—because at Tough Stump, the only thing tougher than the missions is Robby’s knack for solving complex problems.
ABOUT:
Jesse Schrader
UMX Cell Lead
A 20-year Air Force veteran and Combat Controller, Jesse has spent his career mastering the skies and the technology that commands them. At Tough Stump, he now serves as the UMX Cell Leader, driving innovation and training in unmanned systems. A subject matter expert in all things aerial, he leads as a Teal Drone instructor and FPV drone maestro, equally at home building platforms as he is piloting them with precision. Whether it’s developing cutting-edge capabilities or putting drones through aerial acrobatics, Jesse brings technical mastery, creativity, and just the right amount of swagger to every mission.
ABOUT:
Christina Isaacs
social media & Marketing Manager
Christina, an 11-year Army veteran with a background as an imagery analyst in special operations, joined the Tough Stump team in 2022—and she's been capturing moments ever since. As a photographer and creator of marketing materials, she turns every shot into a masterpiece, and her social media content? Let's just say it’ll have you double-tapping before you even realize it. Whether it’s behind the lens or behind the scenes, Christina brings a sharp focus to everything she does. When she’s not capturing the action, she’s busy making sure the world sees it too.
ABOUT:
Dustin Hillis
Chief Strategy Officer
With over 20 years of business experience, Dustin’s journey started as an entrepreneur, co-founding multiple 7-figure businesses before leveling up to CEO of a global conglomerate of over 20 companies—because running just one wasn’t exciting enough. At Tough Stump, he helps the executive team navigate strategic business decisions, secure financing, forge partnerships, and recruit top talent, all while juggling other high-stakes business needs. Basically, if it’s big-picture or bottom-line, Dustin’s got it covered. For more info (or proof he never sleeps), visit: www.dustinhillis.com.
ABOUT:
Erica Martin
chief financial officer
With nearly 18 years of experience in strategic business, finance, and accounting, Erica joined the Tough Stump Team as the Financial Controller—because every team needs someone who can actually count. She manages all accounting operations, creates financial models for strategic decision-making, and handles everything finance-related with the precision of a laser-guided calculator. Armed with an MBA from UMass Amherst, Erica keeps the books balanced and the bottom line looking sharp.
ABOUT:
Jon Kordes
atos program manager
Jon is a 20-year Air Force veteran from the SOCOM world with deep RF, SIGINT, and TSCM chops—the go-to for tough technical problems. As Tough Stump’s ATOS Program Manager, he leads development, integration, and deployment of a system redefining airspace deconfliction and tracking. He blends operational know-how with sharp technical insight to keep ATOS delivering in the harshest environments.
Also: still the undefeated 2022 “Best Farmer’s Tan” champ—and just as competitive on mission
ABOUT:
simon malson
UMX SME / Instructor
A 20-year Air Force veteran and Combat Controller, Simon is a drone expert with a deep knowledge of Tough Stump operations. As an experienced FPV drone instructor and trainer, he specializes in advanced drone tactics and training—basically, if it has propellers, wings, or even the faintest resemblance to a flying object, he’s your guy. Just don’t expect him to keep it grounded for long—he’s always looking for the next aerial challenge. Whether it’s teaching, flying, or troubleshooting, Simon brings precision and passion to the skies—and a little bit of humor to the ground.
ABOUT:
Mary mitchell
staff accountant
Hailing from Shelbyville, Tennessee, Mary found her calling in balance sheets and hasn’t looked back. Armed with a BSBA in Accounting from The University of Tennessee, she keeps Tough Stump’s finances running smoother than a well-oiled drone, all while being powered by copious amounts of coffee (seriously, it’s a personality trait). Her knack for tracking receipts and perfecting spreadsheets keeps the numbers in line and the chaos at bay. When she’s not knee-deep in debits and credits, Mary’s usually nose-deep in a good book, or tackling her latest DIY project. She brings the perfect blend of precision, creativity, and caffeine—because every great team needs someone who can handle the numbers and the power tools.
ABOUT:
paul julian
Logistics SME
Paul Julian is a 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran with a deep background in logistics, including the last seven years spent supporting USSOCOM. Over two decades of experience taught Paul that no problem is too big - or too small - for a creative solution. If it needs to move, be found, or fixed, Paul can make it happen, usually faster than expected and with fewer headaches than you'd think possible.
At Tough Stump, Paul leads the charge in all things logistics, making sure people, gear, and timelines line up even in the most chaotic environments. He also lends a hand with the ATOS program and the Specialized Training mission set when needed - because if you’re good at solving problems, you tend to stay busy. When he’s not keeping operations running like a well-oiled machine, you can find him chasing a golf ball across the nearest fairway or keeping up with his boys, who ensure life stays lively off the clock
ABOUT PAUL:
mark mcbride
Director of Logistics and Facilities
Mark McBride serves as Tough Stump’s Director of Logistics and Facilities, bringing with him 26 years of Army service, including 23 spent supporting special operations around the world. A retired Sergeant Major and seasoned jump master, Mark has built a career on making the complex look simple - ensuring that people, equipment, and facilities are always ready when and where they’re needed. His jump master skills continue to serve him well, though he jokes that logistics is a lot like parachuting - if you forget something important, the landing gets rough.
Since joining Tough Stump, Mark has made a strong impact by streamlining logistics and optimizing facilities, allowing the team to stay focused on the mission at hand. Beyond his operational expertise, he fits right in with the crew’s growing circle of foodies, and he’s always ready for a round of trivia or a day on the golf course (firmly believing the 19th hole counts as the most important one).
ABOUT MARK:
jonathan riggs
UMX SME & Instructor
Jonathan brings 20 years of U.S. Army service to the Tough Stump team, where he retired as a Geospatial Engineer Technician. His career spans both conventional and special operations, with expertise that bridges tactical operations, research and development, and strategic-level unmanned mapping programs within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
When he’s not turning terrain into data, Jonathan is happiest outdoors - usually hunting or fishing with his kids. Most recently, he spent five months “cowboying” in Oregon, proving he can wrangle more than just maps. (Though the cows probably wish he’d stuck to GIS.)
ABOUT JONATHAN:
megan wright
Logistics Specialist / Mechanic
Megan is a Michigan native and mechanic by trade who spent ten years on active duty before joining the Tough Stump team. She now keeps our trucks and machines running in peak condition - no small feat given the terrain we tend to throw at them. Never one to sit still, Megan recently helped open an off-road garage in Aberdeen, NC, where she continues to turn wrenches and test limits. When she’s not in the shop, you’ll usually find her working out or diving headfirst ambitious projects. She isn’t afraid to take on a challenge, tackling whatever comes her way with skill and determination.
A true go-getter, Megan’s energy, skill, and determination make her an invaluable part of the Tough Stump team - and we’re lucky to have her.