TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A retired Air Force lieutenant colonel will lead Kansas’ efforts to establish policies and procedures for the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or drones.

Kansas Transportation Secretary Mike King on Tuesday announced the appointment of Bob Brock, a Pittsburg native.

Brock worked with drones during his 22-year Air Force career. He also was a flight safety officer and instructor pilot.

King said in a news release that protecting the privacy and public safety of Kansans as the use of drones increases will be Brock’s top priority.

Brock will have offices in Topeka and at the Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus in Salina.