AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2019

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International conference and exhibition explores drones and unmanned vehicles.

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), expects 8,500 technologists, regulators, and users across commercial and defense sectors to attend AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2019, April 29-May 3 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Billed as “the largest, most comprehensive trade show for unmanned and autonomous systems,” AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2019 features more than 250 exhibitors, including drone manufacturers; state and country pavilions showcasing the latest and most relevant technologies from leading organizations all around the world; more than 150 educational sessions presented by more than 300 speakers; 15 keynote speakers; and several co-located events (most free for XPONENTIAL attendees).

Educational sessions

All XPONENTIAL educational sessions fall into at least one of the following five primary tracks:

Drone Tech User Track offers a series of sessions dedicated to safely, efficiently, and effectively advancing unmanned aircraft system (UAS) deployment. Delineated by experience level — beginner, intermediate, or advanced — sessions in this track will address everything from building a business case for the use of drones to scaling operations across an enterprise.

Policy Track features leaders shaping unmanned systems regulation and policy for unmanned aircraft, automated vehicles, and maritime systems.

Public Safety UAS Track offers public safety practitioners the opportunity to discuss key issues of interest to the community. Panel sessions and stand-alone presentations led by experienced emergency responders and public safety veterans will cover a range of topics from program implementation to lessons learned to regulatory considerations, and more.

Technology Track sessions, designed for engineers, developers, technologists, and researchers, allow attendees to stay up-to-date on the latest technology trends and advancements impacting unmanned systems and robotics, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, blockchain, payload advancements, as well as software and hardware developments. Discover how advanced capabilities can fit within your technology roadmap, research and development initiatives, and business strategy.

Trending Topics Track addresses the latest research and updates on emerging applications to state-of-the-art developments in technology areas such as blockchain and AI. Attendees will hear from leaders who are pushing the envelope by tackling the industry’s most difficult challenges while highlighting near-term opportunities.

Keynotes

Each day of XPONENTIAL 2019 features topics and keynotes devoted to various aspects of unmanned systems. Keynotes on Tuesday, May 1, address “The Unmanned Economy.” As the futuristic world of unmanned systems, intelligent robotics, and drones unfolds, what may once have seemed like science fiction is now becoming a reality. Five keynote speakers will discuss how unmanned systems are shaping Big Industry, where opportunities are emerging, and how the community will address important challenges and prepare for the “work of the future.”

Keynotes on Wednesday, May 2, address “The Unmanned Lifestyle.” Even though the “Jetson lifestyle” isn’t upon us just yet, technology advancements — such as AI, digital connectivity, automation, and intelligent machines — have drastically changed our lives in just a few short years. Three keynote speakers will continue to build on the ideas and concepts presented on day one, exploring the cross-section between technology and society. From the emergence of AI in our everyday lives to the prospects of on-demand automated mobility, and everything in between, what do these advancements mean for us today, and what does the future hold?

Keynotes on Thursday, May 3, address “Unmanned for Good.” In the wake of multiple hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters last year, unmanned systems across all domains became widely recognized as the future of disaster relief. From search and rescue to humanitarian missions, unmanned technologies were utilized around the world, providing aid to those who needed it most. Thursday keynotes, including a keynote panel — Unmanned Systems Respond to Disaster — are dedicated to the humanitarian and public safety communities and the responders who risk their lives every day to make us all safer.

Additionally, the AUVSI XCELLENCE Humanitarian award recipients will be announced during a special ceremony followed by an interactive discussion with first responders who conducted numerous unmanned missions in response to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, as well as recent wildfires.

More information about the conference and exhibition and registration is available at www.xponential.org/xponential2019.