The Verteel Difference
A force for good. Forged from real-world experience.
Our founder, Brian Monga, was first exposed to drones while on a deployment as an Air Force pilot. At the time, small drones were not a force for good – in fact, terrorists were using them to attack troops. This was the definition of disruptive technology. While deployed he began studying them from a defensive standpoint, developing expert knowledge of UAV systems technology and operations, following the industry closely in the years thereafter.
While at Columbia Business School, Brian reflected deeply on how to leverage this innovate technology in a way to harness its power for good and where it could add the most value. Out of an accelerator program, the Verteel team and concept of operations was born. We are currently on the forefront of FAA certification for beyond visual line of sight cargo operations under FAA part 135 to commercialize UAV cargo operations. With our military roots, Verteel is also doing innovative research and development for the defense industry in unmanned aerial cargo delivery operations.
Our Values
The Team
Our team brings years of knowledge and professionalism across military and civilian aviation and high-stakes flight operations, venture capital and marketing.
Brian Monga
Co-Founder Chairman & CEO
Brian Monga has over 17 years of experience in the aerospace, airline, and defense industry. He was a Chief of Weapons and Tactics for the USAF where he specialized in tactical air mobility. He has served in conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Brian is a pilot for a major airline and a C-17 instructor pilot in the NY Air National Guard, He has previous experience in aviation startups and for L3 Harris in the defense industry. He holds an FAA Air Transport Pilot License and is an experienced Certified Flight Instructor. Brian has a BA in Economics from Rutgers University and an MBA from Columbia Business School.
Feli Ogbasion
Co-Founder & CTO
Felemay “Feli” Ogbasion has over 15 years of experience in the aerospace, logistics, and defense industry. He previously served as an AV-8B Harrier instructor pilot in the Marines where he also served as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller. Feli currently works as a pilot for a major airline and continues to serve as a C-17 pilot in the Air National Guard. Feli holds a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan and has an MBA from the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School.
Kristina Deighan
Co-Founder & CFO
Kristina Deighan has 10 years of experience in venture capital, operations, and human resources. She is the Global Director of Training for Frontline Sales at a leading multinational CPG. She previously worked in corporate venture, where she held a variety of roles empowering the fund and enabling portfolio companies, running an accelerator, and leading People platform and finances across 6 global markets. Kristina has a BS in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University and has an MBA from Columbia Business School.
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