New England UAS and AAM Summit 2024
Register now for the region’s largest annual UAS and AAM summit, taking place from October 29-31, 2024! Explore sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities.
If We Build It, Will They Come?Please join AUVSI New England for the New England UAS and AAM Summit 2024! This year’s theme, If We Build It, Will They Come?, will explore the market challenges of developing new aviation infrastructure to support the growing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industries. The New England Summit, co-hosted by AUVSI New England, NDIA New England, and MassAutonomy, is an annual event that spans two dynamic days filled with presentations, exhibits, and networking opportunities. Leaders from federal and state agencies, industry, and academia will gather to discuss progress, opportunities, and challenges in UAS and AAM infrastructure development. Topics will include industry approaches to cybersecurity and an exploration of who is investing in these emerging technologies. New England’s legacy as a premier innovation hub, featuring top talent, thought leaders, and a diverse range of industries from startups to large corporations, makes our summit the must-attend event of the fall. The region’s varied geography, population diversity, transportation needs, and infrastructure assets provide a rich landscape for UAS and AAM use case development. We’re excited to announce that this year’s summit will be in the U.S. Department of Transportation John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center’s new state-of-the-art facility in Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA. Kendall Square is a globally recognized innovation hub, conveniently located just across the Charles River from downtown Boston and easily accessible via subway from Logan Airport. Join us this October to immerse yourself in New England’s vibrant UAS and AAM ecosystems. We look forward to seeing you! |
Program
The New England Summit will showcase a variety of keynote speakers, engaging panel discussions, and insightful fireside chats. It will include a PitchFest where innovators and startups can share their ideas, a STEMFest highlighting local high schools, an exhibit hall, plenty of networking breaks, and numerous opportunities to connect with regional and national leaders in the industry.
PitchFest
Do you want to make your voice heard even if you’re not a speaker? Join us for PitchFest! This fast-paced event on Day 2 invites registered attendees from government, non-profit organizations, universities, and startups to share a 3-minute pitch about their UAS and AAM-related services, research, ideas, and innovations with the audience. Spots for PitchFest are limited, and participation is free with registration. Don’t miss this opportunity to introduce yourself to the region’s UAS and AAM ecosystem! For more information about PitchFest, please email us.
STEMFest
The New England Summit organizers are thrilled to welcome local high school students back to the summit for a second year! We invite robotics teams and STEM students to showcase their projects in the Exhibit Hall. Our goal is to create meaningful connections between high school students and STEM organizations, inspiring them to explore career opportunities in these fields. For more information about the STEM Connection Program, please email us.
Exhibit Hall
Connect with local technology companies in the exhibit hall to address your operational, technological, and business growth needs.
Innovation in New England Tour | October 31, 2024This year, we’re thrilled to offer attendees an exclusive opportunity to explore the cutting-edge world of the New England UAS and AAM ecosystem, witness the future of air mobility, and experience firsthand how this region is leading the charge in transforming mobility. On Thursday, October 31 we’ll lead an optional bus tour, departing from Kendall Square at 8 AM for a visit first to MITRE Corporation’s Resilient Cyber Aerospace Testbed (RCAT) Lab, where we’ll see demonstrations of cybersecurity threat emulations and critical avionics testing modules. Next, we’ll tour the brand-new MITRE BlueTech Lab focused on maritime vehicle testing. After that, we’ll head to MassAutonomy’s AAM Test Site in Lynn, MA, for a close up look at cutting-edge Advanced Air Mobility electric aircraft and MassDOT’s drone airspace awareness and tracking suite. We plan to return to Kendall Square by 2 PM. There are LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE, so be sure to sign up separately when you register for the summit. Don’t miss your chance to see the future of mobility in action and network with the innovators driving this incredible transformation! |
Sponsor or Exhibit Opportunities
Sponsorship
The New England Summit attracts a diverse audience centered on the expanding UAS and AAM industries. By sponsoring the event, you can showcase your organization at the premier UAS and AAM gathering in the region. Your organization’s logo will be prominently displayed according to your chosen sponsorship level. For more information about becoming a sponsor, please email us.
Exhibitors
Showcase your latest products or concepts to a diverse audience of government, industry, and academic leaders! The Exhibit Hall will be conveniently situated just outside the conference entrance, providing exhibitors with direct access to all New England Summit participants throughout the two-day event. For more information about becoming an exhibitor, please email us.
Logistics
Address
U.S. Department of Transportation
John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
220 Binney Street, Kendall Square
Cambridge, MA 02142-1093
617-494-2000
Google Maps
Volpe Visitor’s Guide
For information about parking, lodging, or other logistics, please see the Volpe Center’s 2024 Visitor’s Guide.
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Volpe Center 2024 Visitor’s Guide |
*U.S. DOT Volpe Center Security & Access Policy*
Please note that all U.S. DOT Volpe Center visitors must present a valid government-issued photo identification (i.e., PIV, driver’s license, passport) and be subject to screening by Federal Protective Services (FPS). International visitors must present a valid passport for admittance. Currently, visitors from Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Russia, and China are unlikely to be admitted. Requests for entry for persons from these countries must be provided a minimum of 2 weeks in advance for vetting by the U.S. DOT Intelligence Organization; these countries are subject to change.
All visitors must wear and display a visitor badge while in the facility.
Please allow extra time for access screening (I.D. processing and metal detectors).
Contact Us
If you have any questions, please email us.
CO-HOSTS
WASEEM NAQVI, PHD
President
AUVSI New England
Chief Technology Officer
Raytheon Unmanned Vehicle Systems
JAY LUSTIG
Maritime Domain Business Operations Manager, L156 – Advanced Maritime and Acoustic Technologies
MITRE BlueTech Lab
JEFFREY DECARLO, ED, PMP
President & Chief Executive Officer
MassAutonomy, Inc.
KEYNOTES & SPECIAL GUEST
KERRY BUCKLEY, PHD
Vice President, Center for Integrated Transportation & Director, Center for Advanced Aviation System Development
The MITRE Corporation
COLONEL WILLIAM T. COLLINS JR.
Deputy PEO, Electronic Systems Directorate
AFLCMC, Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts
KENNETH FREEMAN
Deputy Project Manager, Air Traffic Management Exploration Project
NASA Ames Research Center
CAPTAIN JIM GRAHAM
Senior Vice President
Delta Connection
Chief Executive Officer
Endeavor Air
R. MICHAEL GUTERRES, PHD
Senior Principal, Aviation
The MITRE Corporation
SERTAC KARAMAN
Associate Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
ANGELA MCCULLOUGH
Deputy Executive Director, Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Office
Federal Aviation Administration
ROBERT A. PEARCE
Associate Administrator for the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate
National Aerospace and Space Administration
STEPHEN M. POPKIN, PHD
Director for Research and Innovation Technology
U.S. DOT Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
MICHAEL ROBBINS
President & Chief Executive Officer
AUVSI International
LUCIAN SIKORSKYJ
Associate Administrator for Security and Hazardous Materials Safety
Federal Aviation Administration
ABBY SMITH
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Andersmith Solutions, LLC
BLAKE STONE
Policy Analyst, Homeland Defense Policy
Joint Counter-sUAS Office
STACY SWIDER
Vice President, Investments
Mass Ventures
JAMEY TESLER
Executive Director
Mass Mobility Hub
JONATHAN WALKER, PE, PHD
Director, Communications, Navigation, Surveillance Systems, and Engineering
U.S. DOT Volpe National Transportation Systems
2024 EXHIBITORS |
ArgenTech Solutions is a US-based Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) integrator and service provider that integrates tailored UAS hardware and software solutions with well-crafted Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV), and provides comprehensive training as well as skilled personnel for piloting aerial data collection missions. ArgenTech specializes in working with fixed-wing, Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft operating under Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) conditions for medium endurance UAS projects. Military, civil, and commercial agencies rely on ArgenTech’s global expertise in UAS military operations, production control, and aeronautics and electrical engineering for tailored UAS flight operations and maintenance, enabling them to sustain any tactical UAS mission with precision and safety. |
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AirShare’s OVERWATCH® Improves Autonomous Warfare Combat ReadinessAirShare has reached deployment-ready status (SRL 8) of its non-lethal, low-collateral 5th Generation OVERWATCH® Interceptor missile system—capable of disabling elusive drones employed by adversaries in conflict zones to spy, drop bombs, and perform kamikaze-style attacks. AirShare’s OVERWATCH® counter-drone system exploits a key vulnerability that all hostile drones possess: they all need to generate lift in order to fly. AirShare’s OVERWATCH® Interceptors contain patent-pending lift-disrupting CASPER™ countermeasures to safely down small, medium, and large drones by entangling their propellers, blocking air intakes, jamming their control surfaces, and obscuring important flight sensors. |
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Censys Technologies Go Further. Go Smarter. Go BVLOS. |
The Federal Aviation Administration‘s continuing mission is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world. |
Harmonic Drive’s mission is to provide motion control solutions that give our customers a competitive advantage. To accomplish this we continually invest in the growth of our employees and in our company’s capabilities. |
Massachusetts Department of Transportation‘s mission is to deliver excellent customer service to people traveling in the Commonwealth by providing transportation infrastructure which is safe, reliable, robust and resilient. We work to provide a transportation system which can strengthen the state’s economy and improve the quality of life for all. |
The Mesodyne LightCell converts any fuel to electricity with the endurance of gas engines and the silence and reliability of batteries. |
Mission Critical Systems takes a holistic approach to learn what drives your business. Actively listening to your areas of growth, focus, challenges, and concerns. MCS works closely with your teams to help provide ways in which you can improve workflows, consolidate, and close gaps while maintaining a resilient security backbone. |
Pivotal’s mission is simple, yet critical: Open the world to the possibilities of flight.
Pivotal’s sights are fixed on even broader horizons — a future where we go beyond personal aviation to serve the greater good. Whether our aircraft support a search and rescue mission or help manage forest fires, Pivotal technology holds untold potential.
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 WHO IS TRANSCEND AIR? A group of experienced aerospace execs, engineers, and entrepreneurs who have designed a tiltwing VTOL aircraft which will grow to dominate the VIP transport helicopter segment by being faster, cheaper and safer, and which will enable our new city-center to city-center Aerial Regional Transport (ART) service. Names on our resumes include Bell, Boeing, the FAA, Delta, Jet Blue, National Test Pilot School, and NASA. |
SPONSORSHIP
The Event and PitchFest Sponsors earn brand recognition in conjunction with one of the region’s most highly regarded technology conference programs. Sponsors are provided with logo inclusion on all event communication, “day of” graphics, and branding on all published content created from the event.
EVENT SPONSOR
$3,000
Event Sponsors will be given special recognition during the opening remarks made by the Chapter President. Event Sponsors will also be given a commemorative token for their support at the conclusion of the Summit. Event Sponsors will receive three complimentary registrations.
PITCHFEST SPONSOR
$1,500
PitchFest is an annual program where conference attendees are invited to make a 3-minute pitch to the audience with one slide. The PitchFest Sponsor hosts this unique program and will be given a 3-minute speaking slot at the start of the PitchFest program to introduce themselves and welcome the individual PitchFest presenters. The PitchFest Sponsor will receive one complimentary registration.
NETWORKING SPONSORS
Networking Sponsors will earn brand recognition in conjunction with one of the region’s most highly regarded technology conference programs. Networking Sponsors are provided with logo inclusion on all event communication, “day of” graphics, and branding on all published content created from the event, and your organization’s logo will be prominently displayed in the meal area where attendees congregate for networking.
BREAKFAST SPONSOR
$1,000
Breakfast Sponsors will receive one complimentary registration.
LUNCH SPONSOR
$1,500
Lunch Sponsors will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves at the start of lunch. Each Lunch Sponsor will receive one complimentary registration.
RECEPTION SPONSOR
$2,500
The Reception Sponsor will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves during the evening reception. The Reception Sponsor will receive two complimentary registrations.
EXHIBITOR OPTIONS*
Exhibitors can advertise their products and services during both days of the Summit.
COMMERCIAL (COFFEE) BREAK EXHIBITORS
$1,500
Do you have a product or service that you’d like to advertise to our in-person attendees and broader online audience? Commercial Break Exhibitors will have the opportunity to present a 4-minute presentation to our audience in the main auditorium at the start of one of three coffee breaks. Commercial Break Exhibitor logos will remain on-screen for the duration of the break. Each Commercial Break Exhibitor will receive one complimentary registration.
EXHIBIT HALL EXHIBITORS
$1,500
Event Hall Exhibitors will earn a 3′ x 6′ display table in the adjacent exhibit hall located directly outside the Summit auditorium during both conference days. Meals and snacks will be coordinated near the area, driving all attendees to the exhibiting organizations. Each Event Hall Exhibitor will receive one complimentary registration. Exhibitors are also invited to participate in PitchFest.
*Commercial Break and Event Hall Exhibitors will not have their logos included in event communication.
To become a sponsor, please email Apoorva Bajaj.
To become an exhibitor, please email Matt Paddock.
Hourly Schedule
Day 1
- 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- REGISTRATION
- 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM
- EXHIBIT HALL OPEN
- 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
- BREAKFAST Sponsored by AECOM
- 8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
- WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
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Speakers:
Dr. Jeffrey DeCarlo, Dr. Waseem Naqvi, JAY LUSTIG
- 8:45 AM - 9:00 AM
- U.S. DOT VOLPE CENTER WELCOME
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Speakers:
DR. JONATHAN WALKER, DR. STEPHEN M. POPKIN
- 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
- OPENING KEYNOTE | FAA's Perspective of a Harmonized National Airspace System
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Speakers:
ANGELA MCCULLOUGH
- 9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
- SESSION 1 FIRESIDE CHAT | Who's Investing, and Why?
- The AAM industry saw a sharp decline in venture funding from 2022 to 2023, plummeting by nearly 50%. This trend continues in 2024, with venture investment levels lower than in 2022. During the same period, there was a marked increase in interest and investments by national and local governments worldwide, accelerating initial pilot operations. Sector investors gather to discuss the criteria influencing investment decisions and the expectations for companies receiving funding, as well as the engagement of public funds to support infrastructure, operations, and integration.
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Speakers:
CAPT. JIM GRAHAM, DR. KERRY BUCKLEY, JEFF BREUNIG, PMP, STACY SWIDER
- 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM
- COMMERCIAL BREAK & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY | Sponsored by Skydio
- 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
- SESSION 1 PANEL | Infrastructure Supporting Advanced Aviation Operations
- As UAS and AAM technology approaches full maturity, a significant barrier to achieving commercial viability is infrastructure development. Like Tesla's establishment of Supercharging networks, the first regions and companies to create advanced aviation infrastructure could secure their positions as long-term leaders in the industry. This session will address several crucial questions: What are the primary infrastructure challenges facing commercial-scale UAS and AAM operations? What partnerships, investments, and developments are necessary to overcome these obstacles? What long-term benefits will this infrastructure provide for its creators and the public?
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Speakers:
ADDISON FERRELL, JENN PLAYER, NATE WARD, ROGER EVANS, TAYLOR PEARLMAN
- 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
- SESSION 1 PANEL | How State-Led Initiatives Are Accelerating Safe Integration of UAS and AAM
- Regional initiatives dedicated to advancing aviation have driven the development of UAS and AAM technologies and operations, driving progress in the industry. These initiatives often have the additional goals of supporting regional workforce and economic development initiatives. We turn our attention to the efforts of these programs, and review the successes, challenges, and path forward in developing infrastructure and in drawing users and industry to their region.
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Speakers:
BASIL YAP, DR. R. MICHAEL GUTERRES, KEN STEWART, ROBIN GRACE, TREVOR WOODS
- 12:00 PM - 12:40 PM
- LUNCH Sponsored by Ondas Holdings
- 12:40 PM - 1:00 PM
- STEMFEST
- Hear from our future leaders! AUVSI NE, in collaboration with the NDIA NE Chapter, presents groups of high school STEM students. This session marks the first of two opportunities for these talented individuals to showcase their UAS and AAM projects, promoting valuable exchanges among industry professionals, government speakers, attendees, and STEM students. MELROSE HIGH SCHOOL Melrose, MA
- 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
- KEYNOTE | Next-Generation Multi-Modal Travel: Building a Premiere Mobility Sector in Massachusetts
- The mission of the Mass Mobility Hub is to build a mobility ecosystem for next-generation transportation. This discussion will describe how Massachusetts is moving towards a cleaner, more efficient, and more equitable transportation system for all.
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Speakers:
JAMEY TESLER
- 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
- SESSION 2 PANEL | Autonomy! Trick or Treat? When Will Autonomy Make a Difference?
- Autonomy or automation? The lines between the two are increasingly blurred. Automation has been a fundamental aspect of traditional aviation for many years. This session explores how the next generation of aviation equipment developers is leveraging established automation solutions while also pushing the limits of autonomy.
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Speakers:
ASHLEY FERGUSON, JOSCHKA HOEFLING, PHD, KELLY CURRAN, PARKER VASCIK, RESE DRUCKER
- 2:15 PM - 2:30 PM
- BREAK & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
- 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
- FOCAL TOPIC | Advanced Transportation Initiatives in New England
- Aviation advancements are fueling the development of air taxis and expanding drone applications across commercial sectors, utilizing technologies that go beyond traditional aerospace. This session will examine innovative regional developments, focusing on integrating cross-domain transportation initiatives to benefit both industry and society.
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Speakers:
ALAN LAMBERT, COLLEEN M. D'ALESSANDRO, RITA CASTONGUAY-HUNT, TED LESTER
- 3:30 PM - 4:10 PM
- FOCAL TOPIC | Leaders in Drone Operations — A Day in the Life
- We delve into Drone Ops and hear directly from those on the ground. Which policies and procedures effectively align with real-time operations, and which ones do not? What are the current and future needs in this field?
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Speakers:
DAVID LEVINE, MD, MPH, MA, SUSAN ROBERTS, PHD
- 4:10 PM - 5:10 PM
- TOUR OF U.S. DOT VOLPE CENTER LABORATORIES & NETWORKING IN THE EXHIBIT HALL
- Join us for a tour of Volpe Center's new labs and facilities or take some time to network in the Exhibit Hall.
- 5:10 PM - 5:20 PM
- DAY 1 WRAP-UP REMARKS & TRANSITION TO RECEPTION
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Speakers:
Dr. Waseem Naqvi
- 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
- NETWORKING RECEPTION
- Meet the exhibitors and network with your friends and colleagues. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with the day's speakers and industry leaders.
Day 2
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- REGISTRATION
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- EXHIBIT HALL OPEN
- 8:00 AM - 8:25 AM
- BREAKFAST
- 8:25 AM - 8:300 AM
- WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
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Speakers:
SCOTT UEBELHART, PHD
- 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
- OPENING KEYNOTE | State of the Industry
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Speakers:
MICHAEL ROBBINS
- 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
- DOD KEYNOTE | Capability Development and Deployment in the CsUAS Space
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Speakers:
COL. WILLIAM T. COLLINS JR.
- 10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
- BREAK & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
- 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
- SESSION 3 PANEL | The CUAS Operational Environment — What Are States Doing?
- With the rise of unsafe and illicit UAS operations posing greater threats to safety and security, federal agencies with statutory CUAS authority are facing resource constraints exacerbated by a lagging CUAS regulatory environment. States cannot remain passive and must take proactive roles. This session explores how states are crafting technical, operational, and regulatory approaches to confront UAS challenges directly.
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Speakers:
ABBY SMITH, PETER ANDERSON, RODOLFO CUEVAS, TRAVIS SCOTT
- 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
- SESSION 3 FIRESIDE CHAT | A Conversation on Advanced Aviation Safety and Security
- As the global leader in advanced aviation, safely and securely integrating these emerging technologies into the National Airspace System is an important priority for the FAA. However, this uncrewed aviation ecosystem brings new security risks. This chat will discuss how the FAA is addressing UAS and AAM security, not only to protect the National Airspace System, but also to support federal, state, local, tribal and territorial security agencies address the threat posed by malicious use of drones.
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Speakers:
LUCIAN SIKORSKYJ, MICHAEL ROBBINS
- 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
- DOD KEYNOTE | Understanding Policy and Authorities Implications of Domestic UAS Threats
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Speakers:
BLAKE STONE
- 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM
- LUNCH | Sponsored by SAIC
- 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
- PITCHFEST | Sponsored by the Consulate General of Canada
- Join us for brief "pitch" presentations from government, non-profit, university, and startup innovators discussing their services, research, needs, and innovations in UAS and AAM.
- 1:30 PM - 1:50 PM
- STEMFEST
- Hear from our future leaders! AUVSI NE, in collaboration with the NDIA NE Chapter, presents groups of high school STEM students. This session marks the first of two opportunities for these talented individuals to showcase their UAS and AAM projects, promoting valuable exchanges among industry professionals, government speakers, attendees, and STEM students. NIPMUC REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL Upton, MA
- 1:50 PM - 2:20 PM
- NASA KEYNOTE | The Evolution of Air Traffic Management
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Speakers:
ROBERT A. PEARCE
- 2:20 PM - 2:40 PM
- FOCAL TOPIC | Advancing UAS Integration: FAA Programs and Initiatives
- Air Traffic Management (ATM) is critical for ensuring the flying public's safety. As UAS/AAM operations aim to expand into denser areas requiring ATM oversight, supplementary traffic management tools (UTM) will become necessary to manage Air Traffic Managers' workload effectively. Our keynote address explores the evolving integration efforts between ATM and UTM systems.
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Speakers:
PAMELA C. GOMEZ
- 2:40 PM - 3:00 PM
- BREAK & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
- 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- SPECIAL TOPIC | Autonomous UAS: Opportunities and Challenges
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Speakers:
PROF. SERTAC KARAMAN
- 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
- AFTERNOON KEYNOTE | Cybersecurity Challenges for Advanced Air Mobility
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Speakers:
KENNETH FREEMAN
- 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM
- SESSION 4 PANEL | The Bad Actors Are in Your Bits. What Now?
- While safeguarding networks and systems remains crucial, it’s safe to assume threat actors may have already found vulnerabilities. Therefore, building operational resiliency is the name of the game. This panel examines strategies for ensuring the safe operation of aviation systems within this adversarial environment.
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Speakers:
KENNETH FREEMAN, KEVIN CLARK, PHD, PMP, NOEL ZAMOT, WILLIAM "BUCK" DOWDELL
- 4:45 PM - 4:50 PM
- WRAP-UP, THANK YOU & DAY 3 TOUR UPDATE
Day 3
- 8:00 AM - 8:15 AM
- MEET
- Boston Marriott Cambridge 50 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02142
- 8:15 AM - 9:00 AM
- TRAVEL
- The MITRE Corporation 202 Burlington Rd, Bedford, MA 01730
- 9:00 AM - 10:45 AM
- TOURS
- We will visit the MITRE Resilient Cyber Aerospace Testbed (RCAT) Lab, where we’ll see demonstrations of cybersecurity threat emulations and critical avionics testing modules. Next, we’ll tour the new MITRE BlueTech Lab, which is focused on maritime vehicle testing.
- 1:05 PM - 1:45 PM
- RETURN | Boston Marriott Cambridge
Date
- Oct 29 - 31 2024
- Expired!
Local Time
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Date: Oct 28 - 30 2024
Location
- 220 Binney St, Cambridge, MA, 02142
Category
Organizer
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Waseem Naqvi ( wnaqvi )
Speakers
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TRAVIS SCOTTVice President of Sales Dedrone
As the Vice President of Sales at Dedrone, Travis Scott works closely with state and local governments on securing airspaces at major venues and outdoor gatherings using Dedrone’s suite of counterdrone solutions. He began his career at Nixle, now an Everbridge solution, connecting public safety, municipalities, schools, businesses and communities as the VP of Government Relations; he then became a Senior Account Executive at Everbridge, where he worked before joining Dedrone. He studied communications and English at Cal State Los Angeles.
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PETER ANDERSONChief Technology Officer CSCI
As CSCI’s Chief Technology Officer, Mr. Peter Anderson is a technology strategist. He identifies new, innovative products which can satisfy information technology requirements that previously seemed unachievable. He looks ahead, endeavoring to keep CSCI’s team on top of burgeoning federal government requirements for information security, modular certification, and quality assurance.
Since 1990, as a strategist, Mr. Anderson also assists government clients in formulating their information technology requirements and provides feedback on how those requirements may affect an agency’s policies and procedures.
Mr. Anderson has been supporting USMC MAWTS-1 ADT&E’s Tactical Demonstrations for the last 10 WTIs as both a technology participant and as an Information Security/Risk Mitigation advisor. Mr. Anderson has assisted MAWTS-1 in obtaining their bi-annual Interim-Approval-to-Operate (IATO) for their last six TACDEMOs conducted during WTI events. Mr. Anderson and his team have assisted the ADT&E TACDEMO coordinator in identifying risk from various technology participants in WTI TACDEMOs. Recently, Mr. Anderson and his team worked with the USMC Trusted Handheld using commercial encryption as a replacement of Type-1 encryption using the NSA CSfC guidance.
Mr. Anderson has a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He has also completed the Chief Information Officer Academy through the University of South Carolina. He has architectural knowledge of Microsoft Client/Server Operating Systems and Application Suites, CISCO Switches and Routers, Lotus Notes, Novell, MAC OS, Computer Associates Unicenter, and E-trust. Mr. Anderson was awarded Washington Technology’s Government Channel Leader Award.
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ADDISON FERRELLDirector, Infrastructure & Head of Americas Skyports
Addison Ferrell is Director, Infrastructure and Head of Americas for Skyports, leading the company’s efforts to acquire, design and build, and operate vertiports for air taxis. His team addresses real estate agreements, local stakeholder engagement, regulatory approvals, airport planning, operational procedures, and enabling technology required to develop and operate a safe, efficient, passenger-friendly vertiport. He began his career as a mechanical engineer designing jet engines at GE Aviation in Cincinnati. Following that, he joined McKinsey as a management consultant, serving clients in aerospace and defense and other industrials on a range of strategic and operational topics. He is located in Boston.
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KEN STEWARTPresident & Chief Executive Officer NUAIR
Ken Stewart has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of NUAIR since Dec 2020. Prior to joining NUAIR, Mr. Stewart held several leadership positions at General Electric Ventures including CEO of AiRXOS, a GE aviation company, where he led innovation, development, and commercialization of Unmanned Traffic Management services. Prior to that Mr. Stewart served in executive roles with several venture capital and private equity-backed companies commercializing and scaling start-ups and transforming organizations for growth. In addition to his role at NUAIR Mr. Stewart is the President of board for the Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) and a member of the Advanced Air Mobility Committee with the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). Mr. Stewart is an inventor of multiple patents in Uncrewed Traffic Management.
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JEFF BREUNIG, PMPSenior Manager Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)
Jeff Breunig is a Senior Principal at the MITRE Corporation with over 25 years of aviation and transportation program management, engineering, flight operations, and strategic planning experience with public and private sectors to include the FAA, DoD, NASA, DHS, International agencies, and at the State and local level.
At MITRE he leads State level programs in the development and implementation of operational uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) programs. His teams specialize in State level strategic planning in the development of aviation system plans, technology exploration and assessment, operational safety risk planning, and strategy formulization. He assists State aviation programs in the capture of their vision, formulation of goals and objectives, and the development of an actionable road map to support the investment and planning for the development and implementation of operation programs.
Mr. Breunig is a rated aviator, with over 20 years of flying experience for the Air Force in fighter operations and as a Flight Instructor. Additionally, he is a licensed Uncrewed Aircraft Pilot. He holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Advanced Transportation Systems, and an Air Transportation Systems Certification from Virginia Tech University.
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PAMELA C. GOMEZDirector, Safety & Integration Division, AUS-400, UAS Integration Office Federal Aviation Administration
Pamela Gomez has spent her career in Aviation, which began as an Aerospace Engineer in the FAA Air Traffic Organization Program Management Office working in ground-based and space-based navigation programs, then through 10 years in the FAA’s NextGen office where she served as the NextGen Advisory Committee Liaison. After leaving NextGen, she served as the Senior Technical Advisor to the Vice President of Mission Support to ensure operational readiness for the ADS-B rule and led the ATO’s Strategy Enterprise Planning Group developing UAS and Space Integration strategies. In 2023 Pamela was named the FAA Fellow and Senior Policy Advisor for Senator Tammy Duckworth, Chair of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Aviation Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation supporting the development of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. She now serves as the FAA Director of the UAS Safety and Integration in the Aviation Safety Organization.
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SCOTT UEBELHART, PHDDirector AUVSI New England Chief Scientist, Advanced Aviation Technologies Group, Aeronautics Division Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Scott A. Uebelhart, PhD joined the Aeronautics Division of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) in 2017 as Chief Scientist of the Drone Program. In this capacity, Dr. Uebelhart guides strategy and planning for the adoption of drone technologies at MassDOT and connects with government and industry leaders across the Commonwealth to help drive air vehicle innovation. He has built a team of technologists, analysts, and UAS operators who are demonstrating how UAS can provide useful, actionable information to state agencies and who are exploring how the state can support expanded air operations. Prior to this, Dr. Uebelhart worked in a technology startup, and served on the technical staff at MIT Lincoln Laboratory where he conducted systems analysis of U.S. space architectures for the Air Force. Dr. Uebelhart served as a postdoctoral associate with MIT’s Program in Science, Technology and Society where he helped establish the cross-disciplinary Space, Policy, and Society research group, applied technical expertise to human spaceflight policy, and briefed senior Congressional and NASA leaders. Scott earned his SB, SM, and PhD from the MIT Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics in the area of structural dynamics and control.
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RITA CASTONGUAY-HUNTDirector of Operations ArgenTech Solutions, Inc.
Rita Castonguay-Hunt is the Director of Operations for ArgenTech Solutions, Inc. (AgTS). AgTS is a New Hampshire based, veteran-owned, small business formed in March 2009. AgTS has extensive experience and competence in managing complex technical services 24/7, world-wide, in support of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Rita specializes in flight operations, safety, and regulations. She is a designated FAA Drone Pro for ME and NH, the Governor appointed vice chair of the New Hampshire Aviation Users Advisory Board, Chair of the Concord Airport (KCON) Advisory Committee and recently served on ASTM’s F38 Executive Committee for UAS. Rita has a B.S. in Aviation Flight Operations and an MBA from Daniel Webster College. She is a certificated commercial pilot, flight instructor, and remote pilot. Rita has been a FEMA contractor since 2016, teaching the AWR-345 UAS in Disaster Management course for NDPTC. Rita lives in New Hampshire in an old farmhouse on a dirt road with her husband and two daughters. She is obsessed with books, gardening, making sourdough bread, and anything with wings.
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ROBIN GRACEChief of Advanced Air Mobility Integration and Strategy, Advanced Aviation Technologies Group, Aeronautics Division Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Robin Grace, a highly experienced leader in aviation operations, planning, and training, currently serves as the Chief of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Integration and Strategy for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Aeronautics Division, where she spearheads innovation and strategic initiatives in the aviation industry. She has experience in both military and civilian sectors, contributing to aerial transportation and safety. During her time in the United States Air Force, she was a fixed-wing and large UAS pilot and was the first female AC-130H Aircraft Commander and the first Air Force Special Operations Command large UAS launch and recovery pilot. She also served as the Chief of UAS Operations for MassDOT Aeronautics, working on integrating unmanned aerial systems into the national airspace with a focus on safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Robin is committed to promoting collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and academia to support innovation in the aviation industry.
Ms. Grace earned a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy, Master of Arts from University of Oklahoma, and Master of Business Administration from Syracuse University. She holds various certificates and licenses including FAA Commercial/Multi-Engine/Instrument/Single Engine Pilot, FAA Part 107 Small UAS Pilot, and Project Management Professional Certification.
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PARKER VASCIKAutonomy Systems Architect Joby Aviation
Parker Vascik is the Autonomy Systems Architect for Joby Aviation, which he joined upon their acquisition of Xwing in 2024.
Having spent his career working towards Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), he believes that electric aviation and autonomy have the potential to lead to a more connected, affordable, and environmentally responsible society. He works cross-functionally at the intersection of emerging technology, business, and policy to bring game-changing capabilities into the market.
Prior to Xwing, Parker was an aerospace consultant to emerging mobility companies, airport operators, and government agencies including AFWERX and ICAO CAEP WG4. His analytics and policy efforts supported CORSIA, the Uber Elevate AAM white paper, and the Regent seaglider white paper, among others. Parker remains a research scientist at MIT where he also earned his PhD in aerospace systems engineering.”
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KEVIN CLARK, PHD, PMPChief of Aviation Facilities and Business Services Division U.S. DOT Volpe Center of Transportation
Dr. Kevin Clark is the Aviation Facilities and Business Services Division Chief, in the Communications, Navigation, Surveillance, and System Engineering Technical Center. He’s been at the Volpe Center for over 24 years leading and facilitating efforts in support of the FAA, DOD, and NASA with more recent activities supporting air traffic control (ATC) facility modernization; and communication and cybersecurity enhancements. In addition, Dr. Clark is a data scientist whose research activities have resulted in new methodologies for measuring critical infrastructure resilience and long-term sustainability. He began his federal career in 1998, as a field engineer supporting weather and aircraft wake turbulence research activities for the FAA and NASA. Dr. Clark has received the Secretary’s Award and Director’s Award for his work in support of the St Louis International Airport and San Francisco International Airport Wake Turbulence Project. He has published works on the Resilience of Airport Networks; Application of Acoustic Sensors for Wake Turbulence Detection and Monitoring; and UAS Integration.
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JOSCHKA HOEFLING, PHDVice President of Product Daedalean AI
Dr. Joschka Hoefling is Vice President of Product at Daedalean, a company developing safety-critical AI systems for situational awareness and flight control. Joschka comes to Daedalean after serving for ten years at Swiss/Swedish unmanned rotorcraft developer UMS SKELDAR, a Saab Aerospace company, in positions of increasing responsibility culminating in his role as Chief Product Officer. He earned a BEng and an MSc in Aerospace Engineering and a DSc in systems engineering and robotics.
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NATE WARDHead of Network Development BETA Technologies
Nate Ward is the head of Network Development at BETA Technologies, a Vermont-based aerospace company developing electric aircraft to serve both cargo and passenger missions. In this role, Nate manages the development of BETA’s multimodal aircraft charging network, working to deploy charging stations and vertiports – both of which are products developed in-house by the BETA team – across the U.S. In his role, Nate also supports BETA’s broader business development efforts and partners with several AAM government engagement groups across the industry. Before joining BETA, Nate worked for nearly two decades as a commercial and residential real-estate broker and has experience leading large teams across many disciplines. He graduated magna cum laude from St. Lawrence University with a degree in Economics, and is also an active student pilot.
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RODOLFO CUEVASChief of CUAS Programs, Advanced Aviation Technologies Group, Aeronautics Division Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Rodolfo Cuevas is the Counter-UAS (CUAS) Program Lead for the MassDOT Aeronautics Division. He is focused on architecting and operationalizing a CUAS capability across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through a collaborative effort with federal, state, local, industry, research, and academic stakeholders within the state.
Additionally, Rodolfo is a security researcher and systems analyst at Boston Cybernetics Institute. His research interests lie in the socio-technical aspects of cyber-enabled system conception, implementation, operation, and evaluation. Rodolfo focuses his research on understanding how design constraints can be used to limit adverse impacts and maximize the ability to identify and adapt to challenging operating conditions.
Previously, Rodolfo was a staff member at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. There, he was responsible for the test and evaluation of RADAR, analysis of ballistic missile defense system (BMDS) components and architectures, and analysis and red-teaming of tactical and commercial cyber systems and architectures in support of DoD and other government programs.
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ALAN LAMBERTDirector of Aviation Maine Department of Transportation
Alan Lambert is a retired U.S. Naval Aviator and former Vice President of Operations with Salamanca Risk Management, Ltd. Alan completed five deployments flying the Sikorsky H-60 Seahawk and Beechcraft C-12 Huron. Alan completed tours as a Defense Acquisition Program Manager, NATO Officer, and as the U.S. Naval Attaché to Ghana. After retiring from active-duty service, Alan worked as a Risk Management Consultant for Overseas Operations. Alan has extensive experience in project management, government service, and systems engineering. Alan lives in Yarmouth, ME, with his wife of 33 years, Kelly Lambert. They enjoy spending time outdoors in Maine with their family.
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TREVOR WOODSExecutive Director Northern Plains UAS Test Site
Trevor Woods is a graduate of the University of North Dakota earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Aviation Management (2008) and a Master of Business Administration (2017). He is a Commercial Pilot and holds a CFII. Trevor has been with the Northern Plains UAS Test Site since its inception and has an extensive history interfacing with the FAA for much of his career. Trevor was instrumental to North Dakota being selected as one of ten participants in the UAS Integration Pilot Program, now the BEYOND program, and played a pivotal role in the inception of Vantis, North Dakota’s beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) initiative. In 2022, he took over as executive director to lead the Northern Plains UAS Test Site.
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KELLY CURRANActing Director, Safety Management and Human Factors & Chief, Aviation Systems Engineering U.S. DOT Volpe Center of Transportation
Kelly Curran is currently the acting technical center director for Safety Management and Human Factors at the U.S. DOT Volpe Center. She was formerly the Chief of the Aviation Systems Engineering division and has 24 years’ experience in the U.S. government and in aviation. Curran led a team of engineers and analysts supporting a variety of government organizations including NASA, FAA, and Massachusetts Department of Transportation. The Aviation Systems Engineering Division has expertise in end-to-end engineering for new and modernizing systems, safety risk management, and business case/needs analysis for new programs and technologies. Prior to her current role, she was a project manager in the Aviation Safety Management Systems Division where she supported FAA’s Flight Standards on the System Approach for Safety Oversight (SASO) as well as work with FAA’s Office of Commercial Space and Office of Accident Investigation and Prevention. Curran is also the management lead on the U.S. DOT Volpe Center’s Software Continuous Improvement Program (SCIP), which maintains the organization’s Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) Maturity Level 3, and she is a liaison for the U.S. DOT Volpe Center’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Coordination Team.
Before joining the U.S. DOT Volpe Center in 2014, Curran was a contractor supporting the U.S. Coast Guard in operational requirements analysis. She served in the U.S. Navy as an Aircraft Commander/Pilot of the P-3 Orion as well as having flown the Beechcraft King Air, U/VH-3 Sea King and SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopters. Curran is currently on the advisory board of the Boston Chapter of Women in Aviation. She obtained her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Massachusetts and graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the U.S. Naval Academy.
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TED LESTERVice President of Certification Regent Craft, Inc.
Ted Lester is a technology-driven strategic leader focused on the accelerated, safe deployment of novel aerial and maritime vehicles through building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. As Vice President of Certification at REGENT, he leads seaglider certification efforts and engagements with national maritime regulators and classification societies. Ted also oversees the systems engineering, crew integration, and vehicle testing activities at REGENT. He’s previously worked on certified avionics for both civil and military aircraft as well as unmanned aircraft airspace integration at Avidyne, MITRE, and GE Aviation. He holds a B.A. from Middlebury College in Physics and an S.M. from MIT in Aeronautics and Astronautics.
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BASIL YAPPresident AeroX
Basil Yap is an investor, engineer and consultant with a profound passion for aviation. With over 15 years of experience, he is nationally recognized as a leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM). His journey in aviation is marked by a curious and innovative mindset, driving him to continually design and build groundbreaking solutions in the aerospace field.
As the former UAS Program Manager for NCDOT, Yap led an award-winning initiative that pioneered routine medical package delivery operations across the nation, the first BVLOS infrastructure waiver, and first public eVTOL demonstration. As a founding member and the current President of the non-profit AeroX, he plays a pivotal role in building an urban UAS Traffic Management (UTM) system to enable routine BVLOS operations.
In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures as a Partner at Aero X Ventures, Yap serves as Vice President of Hovecon Consulting, where he provides expertise in emerging aviation technologies. His strategic insights are recognized on a national scale through his appointments to NASA’s Aeronautics Research and Technology Roundtable and the Smith Reynold’s Airport Board, where he contributes to shaping the future of UAS, eVTOL technology, and Urban Air Mobility.
Yap holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University. He resides in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with his family.
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COLLEEN M. D'ALESSANDRONew England Regional Administrator, ANE-1 Federal Aviation Administration
Ms. D’Alessandro was appointed as Regional Administrator in August 2019, serving as the senior agency official in the New England region providing cross-functional oversight and leadership for the FAA Administrator and coordination across FAA lines of business. Ms. D’Alessandro is the principal FAA representative for the six New England states – Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and Connecticut.
Ms. D’Alessandro joined the FAA in 2006 holding various leadership roles within the Aircraft Certification Service. In addition to her many years in the New England Region, she spent time at FAA Headquarters in Washington, DC working as a Technical Special Assistant to the Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety. Prior to joining the FAA Ms. D’Alessandro spent 18 years at General Electric.
Ms. D’Alessandro earned her Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, MA and a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering and control systems from Northeastern University in Boston, MA.
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DAVID LEVINE, MD, MPH, MAAssistant Professor of Medicine Harvard Medical School Medical Director, Strategy and Innovation Brigham and Women's Home Hospital Clinician Investigator, Division of Internal Medicine and Primary Care Brigham and Women's Hospital
Dr. David M Levine, MD, MPH, MA, is an internationally renowned expert in designing and implementing advanced home-based care, using digital health technology to drive health outcomes, and evaluating the quality, safety, and experience of health care. He is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, clinical director of research and development for Mass General Brigham Health Care at Home, and co-director of the Harvard General Internal Medicine Fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He founded Brigham’s home hospital program and co-founded and co-chairs the Hospital at Home Users Group, a collaborative of home hospital programs throughout the US and Canada. He is core faculty at Ariadne Labs, a center for health systems innovation at the Harvard School of Public Health and Brigham. To optimize quality time at home, shift care home, and decentralize care, his teams examine and implement novel treatment pathways at home, machine learning and robotics approaches to care at home, and the equity, quality, and experience of these models at home. His vision is for all patients to achieve the right care at the right time in the right place by designing, implementing, and evaluating innovative interaction spaces among the care team, technology, caregiver, and patient.
David received his undergraduate degree from Pomona College in biology and politics. He earned his Master of Arts in teaching in special and secondary science education and served as a high school chemistry teacher and science department chair in Chicago Public Schools. He received his medical degree from Washington University in St. Louis and completed his residency at New York University and Bellevue Hospital in internal medicine – primary care. He completed a general internal medicine fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School and received his Master of Public Health at the Harvard School of Public Health.
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NOEL ZAMOTAdvisor, Aeronautics Division Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Noel Zamot is a seasoned leader in aviation, energy, and defense, with deep expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and public policy. A former U.S. Air Force colonel and aerospace executive, Noel led the USAF’s elite Test Pilot School, where he pioneered techniques for testing autonomy in military systems, and evaluating 5th generation aircraft in contested cyberspace. He has testified before Congress on critical infrastructure and energy resilience, and speaks to corporate audiences on leadership approaches for turbulent times. Noel holds engineering degrees from MIT and the University of Michigan, an MBA from MIT’s Sloan School, and a Master’s in National Security Strategy from the National Defense University. He has completed advanced courses from MIT’s CSAIL in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, spanning topics from rapid prototyping to Enterprise and Business Strategy. A member of the DOT’s Aviation Cyber Initiative and IERG, he is also an award-winning author of speculative fiction novels that explores the impact of AI on social media, military intelligence, and information warfare.
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WILLIAM "BUCK" DOWDELL Chief Information Security Officer Massachusetts Department of Transportation
WILLIAM "BUCK" DOWDELLChief Information Security Officer Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Buck Dowdell has served as Chief Information Security Officer at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for the past 4 years. He is responsible for Cybersecurity Operations, Information Security Governance, Risk, and Compliance, and Security Architecture. In his prior roles, he was Director of IT & Information Security, Operations Manager for Hosted Solutions, and a Professional Services Consultant for Escher Group over a 24 year stretch.
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TAYLOR PEARLMANManager, Wireless and Digital Systems Cambridge Consultants
Taylor Pearlman is the non-terrestrial networks and wireless connectivity lead for Cambridge Consultants, where he focuses on helping companies develop complex connectivity technologies that unlock transformative business value. This has included beyond-visual-line-of-sight communications systems for autonomous UAVs, push-to-talk capability for LEO satellites, 5G payloads for high-altitude platforms, and nation-wide ground station infrastructure for high-bandwidth private jet connectivity.
Prior to joining Cambridge Consultants, he spent five years at BAE Systems FASTLABS developing communications and sensing capabilities for applications ranging from collaborative UAV swarms to fighter jets. He holds B.S. degrees in physics and mathematics from Colby College and an M.S. in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins University.
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RESE DRUCKERDirector, Product Flight Autonomy DroneUp
Rese Drucker is a leader of DroneUp’s aviation technology organization, directing strategy and execution of its flight autonomy platform. Rese has established a proven track record of leveraging human-centered design principles to deliver scalable platforms built for human factors and serve high-compliance and safety critical organizations. As part of these accomplishments, she has commercialized such technologies as enterprise products at scale, across global markets. With over 12 years of experience in tech, she has delivered solutions to clients including NASA, NATO, State of Missouri, Dominion Energy.
Prior to joining DroneUp, Rese served in product management leadership roles, overseeing SaaS platforms servicing large-scale government and Fortune 500 clients. Rese has a consistent track record of closing the “say-do gap” to solve operational challenges through leading edge tech including NASA LRC, DoD and NATO.
Other areas of aptitude include system integrations for decision support and data integrity; assessment and validation of built-in quality and compliance; improved compliance through technology.
Rese is a member of serves on local and national councils which drive industry standards and best practices, innovation, and skill development in unmanned aerial vehicle operations, and is also an FAA Part 107 Certified Remote Pilot.
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JENN PLAYERVice President of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs Skydio
Jenn Player is Vice President of Global Aviation Regulatory Affairs at Skydio. Jenn collaborates with customers, regulators, and standards development organizations to advance autonomy and unlock scalable beyond visual line of sight drone operations.
Jenn served as an industry working group lead on the FAA’s UAS BVLOS Aviation Rulemaking Committee and participated in the UAS Detection and Mitigation Aviation Rulemaking Committee. She served on the FAA Advanced Aviation/Drone Advisory Committee in working groups on BVLOS operations, detect and avoid technology, remote ID, airworthiness, and autonomy. Jenn currently chairs the Operations subcommittee under ASTM Committee F38 and is a member of JARUS ISB/WG-AW.
Jenn has over 10 years of experience in uncrewed aircraft systems research, testing, and operations. Her early work to integrate drones into the National Airspace System through the FAA’s Pathfinder Program with BNSF Railway led to the first long-range BVLOS civil flight in the continental United States.
Prior to joining Skydio, Jenn founded Avineer LLC, a consulting firm guiding manufacturers in the drone delivery space through the type certification process and helping enterprises gain approvals for BVLOS and other complex operations. She previously held technical roles at the Naval Air Warfare Center, NASA Langley, and Cessna Aircraft Company.
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ROGER EVANSProgram Manager - Airline Operations Archer
Roger Evans is Archer’s Program Manager for Airline Operations (Archer Air). In this role he is leading the development of commercial operations of the “Midnight” Air Taxi as a Part 135 Air Carrier. Work streams in the Archer Air Program include regulatory compliance, community engagement, infrastructure, and workforce development. Roger’s nearly 40 year career in commercial aviation has taken him around the world and instilled a passion for the business of airline operations. Previous certification projects include first delivery and launch of the Airbus A321-NEO (Virgin America), fleetwide installation of ADS-B to meet the FAA’s 2020 Mandate (Alaska Airlines), and the Major Change of Operational Authority to add the Airbus A220 to Breeze Airways’ Air Carrier Certificate.
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SUSAN ROBERTS, PHDVice President, Strategy and Business Development Ondas Holdings
Susan Roberts, a captivating, inspirational, Fortune 500 aviation executive, specializes in self-disruption and innovation to pursue new business strategies and models. She is currently the CEO/Founder of the 1182 Group, a management consulting business that specializes in innovation and strategy development. She was previously the Head of Commercial Innovation for Panasonic Avionics Corporation, leading the company’s efforts from a bespoke business model to a managed services business model. Susan enjoys being a thought leader in innovation, business models, corporate self-disruption and growth, and cultural change.
Susan Leads Strategy for Ondas Holdings. The Group is pursuing a future where assured, autonomous flight is supported by an ecosystem of technological, regulatory, and cooperative elements. Susan is passionate about challenging the assumptions that prevent the adoption of a new way of life enabled by new technologies including robotics, artificial intelligence and smart interoperability.
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ASHLEY FERGUSONVice President of Business Operations Merlin Labs
Ashley Ferguson is the Vice President of Business Operations at Merlin. Prior to Merlin, Ashley served in the United States Navy for 11 years as an FA-18F Weapons Systems Officer. She deployed in 2011 and 2017 aboard the USS George H.W. Bush in support of Operations Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), New Dawn (Iraq), and Inherent Resolve (Syria/Iraq). She graduated from the U.S. Navy’s Strike Fighter Weapons School (better known as TOPGUN) in 2012 and spent five years as a Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor before separating from the service in 2017. Ashley graduated from the MIT Sloan School of Management in 2019 with her M.B.A., and worked as an Associate Consultant at the McKinsey & Company Boston office until August 2020.
