FAA UAS SYMPOSIUM: EPISODE III, DAY TWO RECAP

June 10, 2021 | AUVSI News

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and AUVSI today hosted the second day of Episode III of the UAS Symposium – Remotely Piloted Edition. Keynote and panel sessions featured a range of experts discussing international issues, STEM, regulatory updates, and other topics relevant to the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry. Keynote Sessions: Diversity, Tribal Nations, and Legislative UpdateTo kick off the day, representatives from Women and Drones, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, and Airspace Link discussed how diverse teams and inclusivity are pathways to enhance safety and success for individuals and businesses.

Michael Healander, President & CEO, Airspace Link, whose management team is comprised of 50% women, shared how healthy debates among a diverse workforce helps his organization make the best decisions for their company, their customers, and the industry broadly.

Patricia Gilbert, Executive Vice President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and member of FAA’s Drone Advisory Committee, emphasized that diversity must be a part of the drone conversation so that representation of women keeps pace with the industry’s rapid developments. With a labor shortage in the aviation industry, organizations cannot afford to not tap the full pool of potential talent available. Sharon Rossmark, CEO of Women and Drones, echoed Gilbert’s remarks by asserting that, “It is about creating a culture where everyone can thrive.”

In another keynote session, panelists discussed how UAS capabilities can best serve tribal nations. Evans Bennallie shared how the Navajo Department of Transportation is using drones to manage the large area of Navajo lands, which spans three states. Drones are used for conservation, utility surveying, and to assess ancient sites to preserve cultural artifacts.

James Grimsley discussed how the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma works closely with local communities and stakeholders to educate the public about drone operations and teach kids about careers in STEM. John “JC” Coffey remarked that the Cherokee Nation has also found high levels of interest among the public to learn more about drone operations and how it will impact their lives. Cherokee Nation Technologies also coordinates closely with the FAA in providing direct support for the advancement of UAS integration into the national airspace.

Finally, U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02) provided an update from Capitol Hill, highlighting the need to explore what is possible in the airspace and what is necessary to continue innovation and ensure the U.S. remains the global leader in aviation. Rep. Larsen chairs the Chair, Aviation Subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and AUVSI CEO Brian Wynne applauded Chair Larsen for his commitment to a bipartisan and substantive approach to UAS legislative issues and his dedication to aviation safety. International Sessions: Breaking BarriersDuring a session on UAS integration in Africa, attendees learned about regulatory frameworks and exciting humanitarian and ecological use cases of drones. Catherine Lumonya of the East African Community – Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA) stated that drones are, “breaking barriers and building bridges between people and places, thus bringing solutions to many of the challenges faced on the African continent.”

Panelists shared how their organizations are supporting drone integration to reach this goal. Raynold S. K. Atadja of Ghana’s Civil Aviation Authority stated that his organization keeps certification costs as low as possible so that prices are not prohibitive. Simon Segwabe of the African Civil Aviation Authority said that his organization always seeks to balance safety and flexibility to enable innovation to take place. Victor Goyea of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) stated that his organization fosters collaboration between government agencies, academia, industry, and international regulators to support expansions of regulatory frameworks to enable more drone operations. STEM Sessions: Reaching Students and Including AllDuring a session on engaging students in UAS-related STEM education, panelists discussed the importance of making efforts to reach students of all backgrounds and locations. Cathy Cahill shared how the Alaska Center for UAS Integration at the University of Alaska Fairbanks will travel to remote Alaskan communities to demonstrate drone technology to kids and discuss research being conducted in the field. Her organization seeks to demonstrate diversity so that all students will identify with the technology and see it as an opportunity to help their communities. Other panelists discussed how their organizations also host roadshows or bring educators on-site to gain hands-on experiences in aviation and STEM.

In another session about STEM and youth, panelists from minority-serving institutions discussed the value of establishing a strong school to career pipeline for students of all backgrounds so that they are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

In the final panel session of the day, academics and industry representatives discussed the need for the drone community to work together to support technology that is inclusive for all. Robert Corbett, an advocate for inclusive flight, shared his own experiences with how technology can improve independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. As he’s trained others with disabilities to use drones, he’s seen how it gives them confidence in all walks of life. Whether pursued as a hobby or a vocational skill, drones can give everyone a seat at the table.

Other panelists discussed specific technological advancements being made to improve inclusiveness in UAS and other advanced technologies. All panelists emphasized that a great deal of progress can be made when individuals in the drone industry are willing to have conversations with advocates to learn about simple adaptations that can make their systems more inclusive for all.