The Unmanned Systems Policy Symposium seeks to elevate the conversation around unmanned and autonomous technologies with a focus on the key policy questions and the commercial opportunities. This free event is presented by the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) and the Centers of Innovation within the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

Lora Weiss, Principal Research Engineer and Technical Director for GTRI's Autonomous Systems Initiative, will deliver the keynote address. Weiss' research focus is on the design and development of technologies for unmanned and autonomous systems. She was on the board of directors for the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).

Aerospace Vehicles Panel

Moderator – Steve Justice – Director of the Georgia Center of Innovation for Aerospace

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are emerging as the next big opportunity in commercial aviation.  With its strong aerospace industry, Georgia is a natural place for UAS companies to locate and grow to support emerging civil UAS markets in agribusiness, public safety, electrical and pipeline surveillance, news gathering, ground traffic management, aerial surveys of infrastructure, and more.   The panel discussion will focus on the steps to prepare the way for these beneficial commercial applications through effective policy and legislation at the state level. 

Ground Vehicles Panel

Moderator – Page Siplon –Director of the Georgia Centers of Innovation and the Center of Innovation for Logistics

Self-driving ground vehicle (i.e. passenger cars, trucks) technology is advancing on an exponential curve, with innovation in the field continuing to happen in shorter time periods. Georgia has the opportunity to embrace the technology, and in so doing, become a leader in ongoing research, development, and adaptation to self-driving vehicles.  In order to help inform policy makers and industry leaders about this technology, the panel will include a discussion of the policy and technology landscape of self-driving vehicles.  

Each panel will feature leaders in the unmanned systems community from industry, academia, government, and the Georgia General Assembly.  The event is free, but registration is required.