Our Team
JOSHUA SHORES
Joshua Shores brings over 16 years of entrepreneurial experience to Conjure Systems. His diverse background combines military service, public safety, academic achievement, and practical expertise in drone technology. As a Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Joshua served as an infantry squad leader in Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC), deploying to combat zones in both Iraq and Afghanistan. This experience honed his leadership skills and strategic thinking abilities, which he now applies to the business world.
Joshua's commitment to ongoing learning and industry involvement is evident in his recent travels to Ukraine, where he observed front-line combat operations and studied the development of drones used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and one-way payload delivery. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights into cutting-edge applications of RC technology, directly informing Conjure Systems' product development strategies.
Academically, Joshua holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, complementing his practical experience with formal business education. Since 2020, he has been an FAA-certified Part 107 pilot, demonstrating proficiency in both standard and FPV (First Person View) quadcopter operation. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills positions Joshua as a well-rounded leader capable of guiding Conjure Systems through the complex landscape of the RC vehicle and chip manufacturing industry.
Joshua is also the author of a memoir titled Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman's Journey from the Front Lines of Combat to the Fight for Peace published by Casemate Publishers.
ukrainian pARTNERS
Our Ukrainian partners are industry leaders in the design and production of cutting-edge Ministry of Defense certified drone hardware engineered for demanding operational environments. Their team blends engineering expertise with field-tested insights, creating drone platforms that offer unmatched durability, adaptability, and mission performance. Every component—whether structural, electronic, or sensory—is crafted to meet the highest standards, ensuring our clients receive reliable, battle-tested technology.
ROBERT MUSTOE
Robert Mustoe brings over 24 years of distinguished service in U.S. Special Operations to Conjure Systems. As a seasoned enterprise leader and mission-focused team builder, he possesses deep expertise in the operational deployment and technical integration of battlefield technologies, weapon systems, and advanced infantry tactics. His background includes the planning and execution of high-risk, covert insertions and mentoring elite teams in Special Forces (SF) combat readiness.
A decorated Green Beret combat veteran, Robert has been awarded the Bronze Star with Valor and the Purple Heart, recognizing his extraordinary courage and sacrifice in combat.
A recognized authority in tactical training and innovation, Robert excels in communicating complex military concepts with clarity and precision, ensuring impact across both technical and non-technical audiences. He is highly adept at managing large-scale, multidimensional projects with minimal oversight and has played a critical role in shaping strategic capabilities in fast-paced operational environments. He holds an active DoD Secret Clearance.
Beyond his military and technical accomplishments, Robert is an avid outdoorsman and professional hunting guide, bringing the same discipline and strategic mindset to the field that he honed in combat. His passion for the natural world and experience in tracking and terrain navigation further enrich his approach to operational planning and real-world problem solving.
Robert’s leadership, operational insight, and dedication to national security innovation make him an invaluable co-founder as Conjure Systems delivers next-generation sUAS technologies and training to government clients.
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Chip Laingen
CONSULTANT - Defense Alliance
21-year U.S. Navy active duty aviator, destroyer-driver and commanding officer. Experienced leadership professional for innovation-based economic and business development (including technology cluster development), and executive communications. Expert in managerial and crisis communications, public policy, government procurement, national security, Veterans affairs. Author of the two-volume book "Laingen on Leadership," available on Amazon.
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NORBERT BIDERMAN
CONSULTANT - Defense Alliance
Defense Alliance Advisory Board Member & Sub Contractor