Unmanned Underwater Surface Vessels

Eric is the CEO and President of Ocean Aero, an unmanned maritime systems company which builds game changing long range and persistent ocean going robots. Prior to joining Ocean Aero, Eric was the Director, Defense and Intelligence Global Solutions for the geospatial technology leader Esri, were he lead his team to build awareness of Esri's geospatial technology within the defense and intelligence communities worldwide.

Before joining Esri in 2010, Patten served as a US Navy Captain with a 25-­year career of distinguished service. He was the Director of operations for the US Navy's Southwest region, responsible for shore-‐based operations including those supporting anti-­‐ terrorism, fire and emergency services, emergency management, and air and port operations. He served as navigator aboard the USS Ronald Reagan on several deployments including its maiden deployment to the Middle East in support of the global war on terrorism. Patten was the commanding officer of Helicopter Anti-­‐ Submarine Squadron Five One in Japan and has held several posts on a number of naval vessels. He has also led combat missions as a naval aviator.

Eric is on the board of Directors for the San Diego Police Foundation and was the Chairman of the Communications committee leading the rebranding of the Foundation. He also sits on the board of Directors for the Maritime Alliance

Education

BA Political Science, Washington State University, Pullman WA

MA, National Security and Strategic Studies, US Naval War College, Newport RI