Chapter Spotlight: AUVSI Georgia Chapter

March 20, 2026

The AUVSI Georgia Chapter brings together leaders from aviation, robotics, public safety, infrastructure, and advanced air mobility across the state. Through consistent engagement and programming, the Chapter drives innovation and collaboration throughout the Southeast.

The strength of the Chapter is the expertise of its members, representing a broad cross-section of the uncrewed ecosystem, including drone delivery, public safety, manufacturing, radar, artificial intelligence, and mapping.

The 2026 Winter Chapter Meeting highlighted this depth with an exceptional lineup of speakers. Bob Johnson shared insights into the future of advanced air mobility, including vertiport infrastructure, aircraft deployment, and emerging partnerships. James Chaney, FAA ATL Program Manager for the FAA Safety Team, reinforced the importance of safety and regulatory compliance within the National Airspace System. Nadine Auda, Co-Founder of Rune Aero, presented on her company’s NASA SBIR Award and testing of an all-electric autonomous cargo aircraft. James Lawrence of Duncan-Parnell highlighted advancements in SLAM-based mobile mapping and autonomous data capture, while Jacob Andrews of iVue Robotics showcased STEM innovation through the Develop Air Mini.

The Chapter brings the uncrewed community together four times a year through its Quarterly Meetings at Curiosity Lab in Peachtree Corners, creating a consistent forum for networking and collaboration.

In 2026, the Chapter expanded its impact beyond meetings through partnerships, outreach, and regional engagement.

The Chapter’s influence also extends through active participation in advocacy, policy discussions, and industry initiatives. In 2025, key activities included:

• Members were invited to observe Wing’s inaugural drone delivery operations in Woodstock, Georgia, marking a milestone for aerial delivery in the state.
• The Chapter co-hosted two events with the FAA Safety Team in Atlanta, providing a forum for Wing representatives to address aviation community concerns and share how drone delivery integrates into the National Airspace System.
• Members participated in STEM Day at the Fulton County College and Career Academy, introducing students to careers in uncrewed technology and real-world applications.
• Chapter President Lamar Ellis represented the Chapter at AUVSI Hill Day in Washington, DC, contributing to national policy discussions.
• Members participated in Drone Demo Day, showcasing real-world applications of drone technology.
• The Chapter participated in Innovation Xchange in Augusta and the Tech Launchpad event, supporting collaboration between U.S. and Ukrainian leaders in technology, entrepreneurship, and manufacturing.
• Members engaged in Aviation Hill Day at the Georgia State Capitol, reinforcing the Chapter’s commitment to state-level advocacy.
• Chapter leadership participated in international discussions, including engagement at the Ukrainian Consulate in Houston, promoting opportunities for drone manufacturing and collaboration in Georgia.

The Chapter’s continued growth and impact have been recognized at the national level. In 2025, the AUVSI Georgia Chapter was named AUVSI Chapter Development of the Year.

The AUVSI Georgia Chapter remains focused on connecting stakeholders, sharing knowledge, and supporting the safe and effective integration of uncrewed systems. From advanced air mobility and drone delivery to STEM outreach and policy engagement, the Chapter continues to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of the industry in Georgia.

Want to Get Involved with Your Local AUVSI Chapters?

Connect with local leaders, attend upcoming meetings, and get involved in the AUVSI community advancing uncrewed systems across the country.

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