Meet the Team
Joseph Shepherdson
FOUNDER & DIRECTORWith a background as a Chartered Ecologist, Joseph Shepherdson (CBiol, MCIEEM, MRSB) combines over a decade of field experience with advanced aerial survey techniques, his work as Founder and Director of Ecotainment is helping reshape how habitats, species, and landscapes are assessed, monitored, and protected, with a strong focus on accuracy, safety, and minimal disturbance.
Alongside his ecological work, Joseph built a career in television and film, working as a Producer and Director with the BBC Natural History Unit and the Academy Award-winning Off The Fence. This experience allows him to apply drone-led ecology at the highest level, supporting major projects to operate responsibly in sensitive environments.
Joseph is helping move ecology beyond traditional methods, ensuring drones are used not just as tools, but as a core part of better, more sustainable ecological decision-making.
India Rayner
Sales ManagerFocused, approachable, and driven by results, our sales manager is all about building strong relationships. They help connect people to the right solutions—with clarity and care.
George Roden
INFRASTRUCTURE INSPECTION LEADGeorge is a highly skilled drone operator and a hugely versatile asset to the team, leading our Infrastructure Inspection division. Working closely with major engineering and infrastructure clients including National Grid, OCU, Birdstrike and Arup, he has built a reputation for delivering complex aerial inspection projects to the highest standard.
Specialising in thermal inspections, geospatial surveys, LiDAR and multispectral mapping, George combines technical expertise with extensive operational experience to provide accurate, reliable data that supports critical infrastructure across the UK. His hands-on approach, attention to detail and commitment to quality set the benchmark for aerial inspection and surveying, making him a trusted partner on some of the industry's most demanding projects.
Sam Oakes
ECOLOGY DRONE OPERATOR Sam is an experienced ecological drone operator and CAA/FAA certified pilot, specialising in aerial ecology and environmental assessments. He has led drone surveys for nationally important infrastructure projects, including major highways, collecting high-resolution imagery to support Phase 1 habitat surveys. His work enables accurate habitat mapping, identification of ecological constraints, and safer, low-impact survey methods in complex or hard-to-access environments.
Alongside his ecological expertise, Sam is an Emmy Award–Winning camera operator. At Ecotainment, he leads aerial ecology and drone assessments, combining precise flying skills with a deep understanding of wildlife behaviour to deliver robust, practical ecological insights.
Abi Thomas
ECOLOGY DRONE OPERATOR Abi is an experienced ecological drone operator and bat survey specialist, using drones to support low-impact surveys in complex and hard-to-access environments. Her work focuses on applying aerial methods to improve habitat assessment, roost inspections, and ecological understanding while minimising disturbance to protected species.
Alongside her ecological work, Abi has extensive aerial filming experience for Asia, narrated by Sir David Attenborough. She has flown in some of the world’s most demanding environments, from Arctic sea ice and high-altitude mountain ranges to dense forest canopies and urban structures. Abi brings a high level of technical precision and ecological awareness to her work with Ecotainment Ltd.