Ricky Connelly brings over 13 years of hands-on experience in the wine industry and a deep-rooted passion for viticulture. Known for his technical ingenuity and resourcefulness, Ricky has always been drawn to understanding how things work—taking things apart and putting them back together since childhood.

An avid gamer and virtual reality enthusiast, Ricky taught himself to fly drones using real flight controllers and simulation software. It was this unique blend of practical vineyard knowledge and a tech-driven hobby that sparked the idea for Velterra. As Founder and qualified drone pilot, Ricky combines precision, innovation, and a deep understanding of the land to deliver cutting-edge drone solutions for growers and vineyard managers alike.