In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Brett Ulander, the CEO of Bluedrop USA, Inc, embarked on his path to success in the defense training industry. Join us as Brett shares his extensive background, values, and the bold decisions that have helped shape Bluedrop USA into a formidable player in the U.S. defense simulation market. Discover what makes Brett’s leadership unique, how he envisions the future of defense training, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Get ready to be inspired by Brett’s story—a testament to resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
The Path from Navy Pilot to Industry Leader
Brett Ulander began his post-military career in the defense industry after serving 20 years in the U.S. Navy as a pilot, instructor pilot, and mission commander. His transition into civilian life began with a role as Project Lead supporting the USMC Osprey Team in New River, North Carolina. During this time, the MV-22 Osprey program was rebuilding after a series of mishaps, and Brett was invited to contribute his senior pilot and human factors expertise. He played a crucial role in re-establishing the training squadron VMMT-204 and the first operational MV-22 squadrons, focusing on Crew Resource Management and pilot and aircrew training. This experience fueled his desire to continue advancing military training, emphasizing the importance of safety and mission readiness from a contractor’s perspective.
Core Values That Guide Leadership
Brett’s leadership style is deeply rooted in the Navy’s Core Values: Honor, Courage, and Commitment. These were reinforced by the wisdom of his father, who often asked, “Did you do your best, and if not, why not?” Brett never imposes unrealistic expectations; instead, he encourages his teams to always strive to do their best. Influenced by Admiral Harry Harris, a mentor who never asked others to meet his own high standards but rather to deliver their personal best, Brett established Bluedrop USA’s core values: Respect, Integrity, Trust, and Excellence—always be RITE. These values form the cultural backbone of the organization.
The Turning Point Toward Entrepreneurship
A pivotal moment in Brett’s journey came when he joined Bluedrop Training and Simulation in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to help them enter the U.S. market. As the sole representative in Orlando, Florida, he encountered roadblocks due to regulatory and contractual restrictions that favored U.S.-based entities. When the parent company declined to invest in a U.S. subsidiary, Brett took a leap of faith. He proposed and co-founded Bluedrop USA as a separate entity with a memorandum of understanding to utilize Bluedrop branding and market their products. Along with a close business associate, he launched the company, secured contracts, and generated enough momentum that the Canadian parent company bought out Bluedrop USA within two years. Brett remained President, and shortly after promoted to CEO, a role that was made possible by the very risk he was willing to take.
A Vision for the Future of Defense Training
Brett envisions a defense sector that embraces cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality and cloud-based platforms for aircrew training. With increasing cybersecurity demands and a focus on point-of-need training, Bluedrop USA is uniquely positioned to lead. Though a relatively young company, its foundation as a spinoff of a 30-year-old organization has allowed it to compete with established industry giants. Bluedrop USA’s R&D team plays a critical role in ensuring that the company remains ahead of the curve in technological innovation.
Driving Innovation in Defense Training
Brett believes innovation in defense training is being redefined by the integration of Artificial Intelligence and immersive technologies. The traditional limits of achieving only two out of “faster, better, cheaper” are being overcome by AI, enabling all three simultaneously. Brett emphasizes that new generations of service members, raised on interactive digital experiences, require more dynamic training solutions. PowerPoint presentations are no longer sufficient. Bluedrop’s products are designed to meet modern demands, offering high-fidelity simulators that reflect how today’s military personnel learn and train.
Balancing Risk with Strategic Planning
At Bluedrop USA, strategic decisions are shaped by a strong and diverse Board of Directors and a senior advisory team that includes military leaders, industry veterans, and business strategists. Brett draws on his dual perspectives—20 years of military service and 22 years in the private sector—to make informed recommendations. Supported by a proactive business development team, a future-forward operations manager, and a visionary R&D unit, the company thrives on collective decision-making and a shared commitment to innovation and excellence.
A Lasting Impact Over the Next Decade
Over the next 5–10 years, Brett aims to revolutionize rear crew helicopter training. Bluedrop USA is already executing contracts with elite units like the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR) and the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command to deliver advanced simulators. These systems provide gunnery, hoist, and full mission rehearsal capabilities. Brett’s broader goal is to link rear crew and pilot simulators across units for collaborative, high-fidelity mission preparation—full mission rehearsal. This approach is also gaining traction with agencies such as CALFIRE and the U.S. Coast Guard, reinforcing Brett’s vision of transforming rear crew training into a simulator-based standard across military and civilian sectors.
Key Disruptions in the Defense Sector
Brett identifies funding as the most persistent disruptor in defense. With rising costs and scrutiny over expenditures, there is a renewed focus on cost-effective solutions. Simulators offer a clear value proposition—saving flight hours, reducing wear on expensive platforms like the V-22 Osprey, and minimizing ammunition costs. Bluedrop’s high-fidelity solutions address these challenges head-on, offering efficient and effective alternatives to traditional training methods.
Technological Forces Shaping the Future
Mixed-Reality (MR) and AI are, in Brett’s view, the two most transformative technologies on the horizon. Enhanced immersive experiences will change how training is delivered, while AI will drive data analysis, curriculum optimization, and performance insights. These technologies are not passing trends—they are foundational tools that companies must embrace to remain relevant and effective in tomorrow’s defense landscape.
The Role of Leadership in Shaping a Better Future
Brett believes today’s leaders must instill core values and foster a culture of integrity, resilience, and personal growth. In a fast-paced, digital-first world, it’s vital for employees to feel connected, supported, and valued. Brett shared an instance where an employee lost his father during his first week at the company. Despite limited leave, Bluedrop USA treated him with compassion, as if he had been a ten-year veteran. That act embodies the company’s family-first ethos and dedication to its people.
Bluedrop USA’s Commitment to Social Responsibility
Social responsibility at Bluedrop USA is expressed through action. The company grants employees eight hours annually for volunteer work, independent of vacation or PTO. Additionally, the TRU Blue program empowers employees to select charitable causes each quarter, with company funding starting at $500 per donation. Decisions are made by a staff committee, not management, allowing employees to direct the company’s social impact.
Reflections on the Leadership Journey
Looking back, Brett sees no regrets in his path. Though there were moments he considered extending his military career, he feels fulfilled in his current role. His guiding principle has always been to “do the next right thing,” a mantra rooted in faith and trust in divine guidance. Brett acknowledges his blessings and is committed to using his leadership to serve others with humility and purpose.
Mentors and Inspirational Figures
Brett’s greatest inspiration is his faith in Jesus Christ. In his Navy career, he was shaped by leaders like Admiral Archie Clemens, whose high standards and expectations taught Brett the power of persistence and strategic thinking. Another profound influence was Marine Corps Captain David “TBone” Trombly, a terminally ill pilot who defied the odds to beat cancer and return to flight duty. TBone’s courage, resilience and faith left a lasting impression on Brett, both professionally and personally.
A Legacy of Integrity and Impact
Brett hopes to be remembered as a leader who proved that good guys can finish first. His greatest joy is hearing that his success has inspired others. Yet, beyond business achievements, his deepest fulfillment comes from his faith, his wife Lin, and their blended family. Whether it’s work, faith, or home life—Brett’s legacy is about doing the next right thing and lifting others along the way.
What Sets Brett Ulander Apart
What sets Brett Ulander apart is not only his leadership but also the culture and capability he has cultivated at Bluedrop USA and its sister company, Bluedrop Training and Simulation. The organization is known for delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and cost-effective products—on time and on budget. But more than that, Bluedrop is a family that values its people just as much as its mission, making it a standout presence in a highly competitive industry.
In conclusion, Brett Ulander’s journey reflects a seamless blend of military discipline, entrepreneurial courage, and unshakable faith. From his service as a Navy pilot to his leadership at Bluedrop USA, he has consistently prioritized purpose, people, and progress. His commitment to innovation, integrity, and servant leadership is not only shaping the future of defense training but also setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with both heart and vision in an ever-changing world.
