2023 Year in Review

Monterey Bay DART Year in Review: Soaring High in 2023!

/in , , , , , , , , , , , , /by
2023 Year in Review

As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, we want to express our sincere gratitude for being part of the Monterey Bay Drone, Automation, and Robotics Technology (DART) community. It has been a year filled with innovation, growth, and exciting developments, and we’re thrilled to share our Year in Review with you.

A Year of Achievements:

  • In October, Monterey Bay DART and CSUMB secured a $1.95 million grant from the James Irvine Foundation. This funding will build on our momentum, expanding the DART-Joby Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program (AMAP), launching the DART-FarmNG AMAP, strengthening partnerships with CBOs, and enhancing DART’s organizational capacity. 

Highlighting Key Projects:

  • Monterey Bay DART, in partnership with the Hatamiya Group, is finalizing a Feasibility Study which assessed the demand for a Regional Workforce Training Center focused on preparing the local workforce for the jobs of the future in advanced manufacturing, drones, automation, and robotics technology. Expected completion in Q1 2024.
  • The CITRIS Center for Drone Education and Research (CIDER) at UC Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay DART are continuing to make significant progress on our collaborative DART Workforce Skills Demand Study. This study is actively assessing the current and future workforce skills demand for the use of drones in agriculture, infrastructure inspection, construction monitoring, and related fields within the tri-county region. Expected completion in Q2 2024.
  • In June, Monterey Bay DART supported the planning, marketing and implementation of the UCANR Drone Camp at CSUMB, including 8 Drone Camp scholarships in partnership with Building Healthy Communities in Seaside. The UCANR Drone Camp celebrated its 6th year in Monterey acknowledging DART’s instrumental role in facilitating the UCANR and CSUMB collaboration.

Community Collaboration:

Our thriving community is at the heart of everything we do. This year, we’ve fostered even stronger partnerships and collaborations. Together, we’ve shared insights, exchanged ideas, and collectively worked towards shaping the future of community and economic development in our region.

  • In November, the Monterey Bay Joby Aviation Working Group celebrated Joby Aviation’s $9.8M Cal Competes Grant to expand their facility at Marina Airport. This award will leverage a $41.3 million investment by Joby, creating 690 full-time jobs statewide by 2027. Locally, this will open hundreds of job opportunities, building on the DART-Joby Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship pilot program.
  • In March, Monterey Bay DART hosted a delegation from the Kern Career Technical Education Campus (CTEC). Participants from Monterey Bay included Cabrillo College, UCSC, CSUMB, Monterey County, Learning For Life Charter School, MBEP, and Joby Aviation.
  • Additionally, DART was represented at the following community outreach events during the past year:
    • Black August 2023
    • Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce – Economic Vitality Committee
    • California Special Districts Association Annual Meeting
    • EDGE Collaborative iHub Convening, Manteca
    • ChicoStart – North State Familiarity Tour
    • SIEDI Annual Convening 2023 
    • MBEP State of the Region 2023 
    • CALED Annual Conference, Los Angeles 2023
    • DOT Inter-Agency Working Group on Advanced Air Mobility, October 2023

Industry Events and Engagements:

Looking Ahead to 2024:

As we embark on a new year, Monterey Bay DART is committed to exploring new frontiers and continuing to lead the way in the ever-evolving landscape of drone, automation, and robotics technology.

Thank You for Your Support:

None of our achievements would be possible without the unwavering support of our community, partners, and stakeholders. As we reflect on the past year, we’re excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Stay tuned for more exciting developments, projects, and collaborations in 2024!

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

The Monterey Bay Joby Aviation Working Group Celebrates $9.8M CalCompetes Award to Joby Aviation

/in , , /by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 17, 2023

Marina will see hundreds of jobs, expanded investment in manufacturing 

Marina, CA – The Monterey Bay Joby Aviation Working Group is celebrating the $9.8M Cal Competes grant awarded to Joby Aviation to enable the manufacturing, maintenance and pilot training facility expansion at the Marina Municipal Airport in Central California. This transformative award will leverage an additional $41.3 million investment by Joby and hiring of 690 full time jobs throughout the state by 2027. Locally, hundreds of new job opportunities will be open to workers in our region building upon the DART-Joby Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship pilot program. 

“This grant to Joby for their planned manufacturing expansion in Marina affirms California’s commitment to build the future of advanced air mobility through a partnership with government, community, and industry, which I like to describe as the Marina Way,” said State Senator Anna M. Caballero, author of SB800 to create the regulatory framework for advanced air mobility. 

The State’s $9.8M investment leverages the dedication and persistence of the Working Group, who met regularly over the past year, in collaboration with State officials, elected representatives and community-based organizations to support Joby’s expansion in Marina. During the CalCompetes Committee hearing, Maria Elena Manzo, Project Director of Mujeres en Accion, stood alongside Joby CFO Matt Feld, in front of an aircraft under construction to represent the model of inclusive economic development that centers community and access to high-road jobs envisioned by Governor Newsom for a sustainable and equitable recovery from the pandemic while transitioning to a carbon-neutral economy. 

Bruce Delgado, Mayor of Marina, stated, “Marina is excited that, with this CalCompetes grant, Joby will be able to expand their production capabilities at our Marina Municipal Airport, creating hundreds of new, local jobs. The funding will also support Joby in expanding their research and development hub here in Marina and continue their success as a leader in the eVTOL industry.”

The planned expansion at the Marina Municipal Airport is “shovel ready” because of the constant collaboration among the Working Group to collectively problem solve and remove barriers as Joby pursued necessary approvals, power upgrades and planning requirements. Josh Metz, of Monterey Bay DART, who coordinated the Working Group highlighted, “This was truly a team effort. We are excited to see how the new facilities and workforce demand will increase aerospace career pathway opportunities for Salinas and Pajaro Valley residents and anchor the emerging climate-smart, aviation and robotics technology ecosystem on the Central Coast. This is a big win for our region that will inspire more opportunities ahead.”

The Monterey Bay Joby Aviation Working Group includes: the Monterey Bay Drone Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) Initiative, the Salinas Inclusive Economic Development Initiative (SIEDI), the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP), the City of Marina, Monterey County, CSU Monterey Bay, UC Santa Cruz, PG&E, Central Coast Clean Energy, the Office of Senator Anna Caballero, Senator John Laird, Senator Dawn Addis, and Congressman Panetta. 

State Senator John Laird, District 17: “Joby has been at the forefront of pioneering the evolution towards environmentally sustainable air transportation. They exemplify the California spirit through their unwavering diligence and tenacity. I am genuinely privileged to host not only their manufacturing facility in Marina, but also their headquarters in Santa Cruz within the bounds of my Senate District. The achievements enabled by this grant promise to positively catalyze our communities throughout the Monterey Bay region.” 

Sonia M. De La Rosa, County Administrative Officer, County of Monterey: “Joby Aviation’s groundbreaking strides in environmentally sustainable air transportation resonate deeply with Monterey County’s ethos. Hosting their manufacturing hub in the City of Marina, Monterey County is a true privilege. This grant signifies a pivotal turning point, igniting a wave of positive impact throughout the Monterey Bay region. It stands as a testament to our collective dedication, uniting diverse organizations, leaders, and communities in advancing our shared vision for inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainability. The County of Monterey stands firmly behind Joby’s expansion within our region, continuing our unwavering support as they pioneer sustainable aviation technology, fostering growth, and aligning with our commitment to a greener, more prosperous future.” 

President Vanya Quiñones, Cal State Monterey Bay: “Cal State Monterey Bay is excited by the opportunities this new grant brings for creating new career pathways for students within our university. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Joby Aviation and DART, especially as we launch our new College of Science mechatronics engineering program and continue the work of our College of Business Institute of Innovation and Economic Development.”

Larry Samuels, Strategic Advisor to the Chancellor, UC Santa Cruz: “Joby’s Marina expansion recognizes the unique workforce opportunities in the Greater Salinas MSA. We are enthusiastic about the potential of creating an Advanced Air Mobility Tech Hub in the region and Joby’s support and leadership towards that vision is to be commended.”

Tahra Goraya, President & CEO MBEP: “Joby’s visionary clean-energy aircraft technology is having a transformative influence on the way we think about transportation while creating sustainable, high-skilled jobs that are reinvigorating our regional economy. We’re thrilled to partner with Joby as it continues to expand.”

Barbara Meister, Salinas Inclusive Economic Development Initiative (SIEDI): “This is what inclusive economic development looks and feels like. The DART-Joby apprenticeship is proof that the Salinas Valley, despite its challenges, has motivated workers ready to contribute to an innovative company like Joby and share in the economic benefits of its success. SIEDI organizations are working on a robust workforce development strategy and persevering on the issues of housing, childcare, education and digital access, foundational to a thriving and equitable economy that serves all of us.” 

*******************************************

About Monterey Bay DART Initiative

The Monterey Bay Drone, Automation, and Robotics Technology (DART) Initiative is a pioneering nonprofit organization committed to fostering innovation and creating high-road career pathways in the fields of drone, automation, and robotics technology. Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and educational programs, we aim to empower underserved communities and drive inclusive economic growth in the Monterey Bay region.

About the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP)

Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) is a regional member-supported nonprofit organization consisting of public, private, and civic entities located throughout the counties of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz. Founded in 2015, our mission is to improve the economic health and quality of life in the region.

About Cal State Monterey Bay

Cal State Monterey Bay is a mid-size residential campus that provides more than 7,500 students an extraordinary opportunity to learn in an inspiring coastal environment just one mile from the shores of the beautiful Monterey Bay. Our diverse student body receives personal attention in small classes while pursuing degrees in 25 undergraduate and 9 graduate majors.

About the Salinas Inclusive Economic Development Initiative (SIEDI)

SIEDI is composed of 9 community-based organizations, with deep roots and connections in the Salinas Valley community. With funding from the James Irvine Foundation in partnership with the Community Foundation for Monterey County, the initiative is building the capacity of these nonprofits to influence inclusive recovery and economic development, especially those related to the preservation and creation of quality, family-sustaining jobs.

About the University of California, Santa CruzA global research university, UC Santa Cruz is part of the world’s most celebrated system of public higher education and stands among the most renowned institutions of higher learning. Leading at the intersection of innovation and social justice, UC Santa Cruz faculty and students conduct transformative research and scholarship that serves society. Undergraduate students experience a small liberal arts college environment with the depth and rigor of a major research university through the pairing of high-impact research with 10 tight-knit residential colleges – a rare combination among U.S. public universities. UC Santa Cruz shares the distinction of being the youngest member of the Association of American Universities and one of only five members that is both a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions.

2023 Monterey Bay DART Symposium Unites Industry, Academia, Government and Communities

/in , , , , , , , , , , , , , /by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Marina, CA, November 7, 2023 – The 2023 DART Symposium, held at the CSUMB University Center from October 11th to October 13th, concluded successfully, marking a milestone event in the world of Advanced Air Mobility, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Agricultural Technology, and Inclusive Economic Development. With a diverse range of insightful discussions, workshops, and notable speakers, the symposium lived up to its promise of facilitating collaboration, knowledge sharing, and inclusive cross-sector engagement.

**Day 1 – Community Integration**

The first day of the symposium kicked off with an enlightening Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Short-Course, hosted by the Community Air Mobility Initiative. This workshop provided state and local decision-makers, agency staff, urban and transportation planners, and interested individuals with a comprehensive introduction to the emerging world of advanced air mobility.

Symposium participants had the exclusive opportunity to join the Joby Aviation at Marina tour, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at Joby Aviation’s advanced manufacturing facilities at the Marina Municipal Airport.

At lunch, Josh Metz, Executive Director of MBDART, and Ken Smith, Lead Organizer of the Salinas Inclusive Economic Development Initiative, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. Senator Anna Caballero, California State Senate District 14,  shared her insights on the importance of AAM to the California economy and to the Salinas Valley workforce.

In the afternoon, the Community Integration – Economic & Workforce Development Workshop brought together various stakeholders to discuss economic and workforce development opportunities and challenges related to advanced air mobility and agricultural technology adoption. The day concluded with the Airspace Integration Corridors & Central Coast Flight Information Exchange Workshop, exploring the potential for establishing safe and secure UAS integration corridors in California.

**Day 2 – AAM & UAS Economic Development Opportunities**

The second day commenced with a hearty breakfast and registration, followed by welcoming remarks by CSUMB College of Business Dean, Dr. Marylou Shockley. Matt Field, Chief Financial Officer at Joby Aviation, delivered an insightful keynote focused on Joby Aviation’s development and implementation pathway.

Two engaging panels delved into supporting continued AAM development (Moderated by MBDART Strategic Advisor/COO, Shari Tavaf), and the creation and management of airspace innovation corridors (Moderated by MBDART Co-Founder, Chris Bley). Notable industry leaders and experts led these discussions, shedding light on the state of research and development and the importance of innovation corridors.

The day continued with a featured, all-female leader panel (moderated by Community Air Mobility Initiative Executive Director, Yolanka Wulff), discussing government’s role in supporting AAM innovation and safety, followed by discussions on infrastructure, vertiports, and test facilities (moderated by UC Berkeley transportation futurist and researcher, Adam Cohen). Following that informative session, Fireside Chat with Carol Dietrich, Founder & President @Jump Aero Inc. and Dean Donovan, Partner @Diamond Stream Partners. Rounding out the day with exploring new return on investment opportunities in the AAM market (moderated by CSUMB College of Business Professor, Dr. Jennifer Kuan).

The evening concluded with a Networking Reception at the University Center, allowing participants to build valuable connections.

**Day 3 – Partnerships & Workforce Development**

The final day began with breakfast and registration, followed by an inspiring keynote from Daniel Theobald, Co-Founder & President of MassRobotics,  setting the stage for discussions on agtech innovation and workforce development.

Panel discussions on public-private workforce development partnerships and community partners in workforce and economic development highlighted the importance of collaboration in nurturing talent and creating economic opportunities.

The symposium concluded with closing remarks, emphasizing the significance of partnerships and workforce development in the rapidly evolving AAM and UAS industries.

The 2023 DART Symposium was a resounding success, with participants and speakers leaving with a deeper understanding of the potential and challenges of the AAM and UAS sectors. The event fostered collaboration among industry experts, government officials, and community leaders, paving the way for a more connected and innovative future.

For more information about the 2023 DART Symposium and upcoming events, please visit https://montereybaydart.org/symposium/.

###

**Contact Information:**

Josh Metz Executive Director Monterey Bay DART (831) 254-8299

Our Sponsors and Partners

Logo for the CSUMB Institute for Innovation and Economic Development

MBDART hosts US Commercial Service and US Embassy Representatives

/in , , , , , , , /by

MBDART was honored to co-host the US Commercial Service and Market Access Specialists from US Embassies in Germany, Turkiye, Croatia, and Romania for a trade focused exchange. Working in partnership with the Monterey County Economic Development Office, Central Coast Marketing Team, Monterey Bay Economic Partnership, UC Santa Cruz-MBEST, Santa Cruz County Economic Development, See Monterey, Monterey Wines, and Joby Aviation, the local coalition and Commerce teams held a day of meetings and tours at the UCMBEST Marina Office and Joby Aviation’s Marina Manufacturing facilities.

“We really appreciate Joanne, Chris and the whole delegation for making the time to come visit us here in Marina and the Monterey Bay region. We learned about key features of their respective markets, tools and programs available to U.S. companies looking to initiate or expand EU trade, and key market access events occurring throughout the year. We also had the opportunity to educate the EU-based folks about the amazing companies, economic drivers, and quality of life offered here in the Monterey Bay region. Perhaps most importantly, we had the chance to meet, share a meal and establish person-to-person connections that will facilitate more effective and efficient engagements into the future.”

Josh Metz, Executive Director, MBDART

US Embassy Market Access Specialists provided information and insights into unique market interests and access information for each of their respective countries. Topics such as key growth areas, Commerce provided market access services, and key events were discussed. The local coalition provided market and organization overviews, including strategic programs, key economic sectors, interest and opportunities for Foreign Direct Investment, and tourism and hospitality opportunities for EU travelers.

“Our meeting with DART leadership and so many local experts who are instrumental in leading economic development in the Monterey Bay region was incredibly valuable.  Gaining a deeper understanding of the industries that underpin the regional economy and drive workforce development allowed for an enriching conversation about how the U.S. Commercial Service/ITA can help support existing efforts to grow international trade and investment the region.  We look forward to more such engagements in the months ahead.”

Joanne Vliet, Director, U.S. Commercial Service – Silicon Valley/San Jose
U.S. Department of Commerce | International Trade Administration

The exchange was productive and left the Commerce and EU teams with increased market awareness, inspiration for future exchanges, and key contacts to develop new market channels for Monterey Bay regional and California companies. Significant international opportunities exist in sectors including travel & tourism, processed food, education/training, agtech, aviation, and information technology, all of which are key industries driving the regional economy. We look forward to growing and expanding these relationships, both with the local San Jose based Commerce team and their US Embassy-based colleagues.

About the US Commercial Service

The U.S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. U.S. Commercial Service trade professionals in over 100 U.S. cities and in more than 75 countries help U.S. companies get started in exporting or increase sales to new global markets. The Global Markets unit promotes U.S. exports, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises; advances and protects U.S. commercial interests overseas; and attracts inward investment into the United States. https://www.trade.gov/

Joby Aviation

Joby Aviation: 2022 Chamber Business of the Year

/in , , , /by

JoeBen Bevrit, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Joby Aviation, has led the team since its inception, more than a decade ago. He has dedicated his life to driving radical innovation in electric propulsion and robotics. In 1999, JoeBen co-founded Velocity11 to develop high-performance robotic laboratory systems, which was acquired by Agilent Technologies.

Joby is a California-based company that builds quiet, all-electric aircraft: Connecting people like never before. With up to 150 miles of range and the ability to take off and land vertically, the Joby aircraft will change the way we move, while reducing the acoustic and climate footprint of flight.

Their long-term vision is to build a global passenger service that helps the world connect with the people and places that matter most, while helping to protect our precious planet. As well as strategic partnerships with Toyota, Delta, Uber, and many more, they have a team of more than 1400 engineers and experts working to bring aerial ridesharing to our skies. Congratulations Joby Aviation. Video produced by Lucid Sound and Picture https://www.lucidsp.com/

2022 Monterey Bay DART Symposium Reaches New Heights

/in , , , , , , , , , , , , , /by

Monterey Bay Drone Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) held a symposium at the University Center of California State University’s Monterey Bay (CSUMB) campus, Nov 30 – Dec 1, 2022. Nearly 200 attendees enjoyed two days of compelling panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. This year’s event was rich with collaboration, connections, and vision for a more robust and inclusive future.

Attendees heard from industry leaders, legislators, educators, and philanthropists on topics like:

  • Air taxis to logistics: what’s new in Advanced Air Mobility
  • Building an advanced aviation workforce
  • Enabling Innovation: Ecosystems, Districts & Facilities
  • Agriculture & Utilities Innovation & Economic Opportunity
  •  Innovation thru Inclusive Economic Development

“The Monterey Bay DART team is so grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and attendees,” said Joshua Metz, Executive Director and Co-founder of Monterey Bay DART. “These events are key to bringing the right people together to build the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive economy that leverages these budding technologies.”

Event videos and copies of presentations are available HERE. To sign up for the DART mailing list for occasional updates on drones, automation, and robotics technology, please click HERE.

Our Sponsors and Partners

2022 Monterey Bay DART Symposium - November 30 - December 1

Event: 2022 Monterey Bay Drone Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) Symposium: “Innovation Workforce: Ready to Fly!” 

/in , , , , , , , , /by

Engage with public, private and philanthropic leaders to explore exciting economic and workforce developments in drone, aviation and robotics technologies at the 3rd Annual Monterey DART Symposium.

Monterey Bay Drone Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) will hold a symposium at the University Center of California State University’s Monterey Bay (CSUMB) campus, Nov 30 – Dec 1, 2022. Attendees will enjoy two days of compelling panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities.

This year’s theme, “Innovation Workforce: Ready to Fly!”, focuses on the economic development opportunities and challenges of expanding the DART innovation ecosystem with lessons learned from the Central Coast. Speakers will discuss advanced air mobility innovations, university connected innovation ecosystems, workforce opportunities, and inclusive economic development, with an emphasis on workforce upskilling and high-road jobs. 

Keynotes for the 2-day symposium include: Dean Donovan, Managing Director, Diamond Stream Partners, a leading aviation investment firm; Tony Tavares, Director, California Department of Transportation (CalTrans), the agency responsible for transportation system management and oversight in California; Bonny Simi, Head of Air Operations and People, Joby Aviation, a cutting edge electric aircraft company; and Don Howard, CEO, James Irvine Foundation, a foundation making catalytic economic empowerment investments supporting growth in this sector. 

While networking with these industry, agency and philanthropic leaders, attendees will participate in panel sessions and discussions with experts, entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers regarding the latest developments in mobility, airspace management, carbon-neutral power, and other current sustainable infrastructure topics.

Space is limited so RSVP now to attend the 2022 DART Symposium. Attendees receive access to Early Bird discounted tickets by purchasing tickets by Oct 30. Attendees can also join our DART community as a member at a discounted rate with symposium registration.

“We’re on the cusp of a workforce transformation – and Monterey Bay, industry, governments and academia have joined forces to chart a path for drones and robotics to automate work while strengthening community.”, said Monterey DART Executive Director and Cofounder Josh Metz. “This symposium is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the industry, in economic or workforce development and for those looking for truly collaborative partnership models.”

###

The Monterey Bay Drone Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) initiative is a regional coordination and advancement forum, founded in 2018, bringing together industry, government and, academia, to align resources and benefit economic and workforce development. Monterey Bay DART seeks to inspire entrepreneurial minds, increase employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth to develop a diverse and inclusive tech community in the Monterey Bay area.

For more information, please visit the Monterey Bay DART website at https://montereybaydart.org/. ‪

Event

2022 Monterey Bay Drone Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) Symposium: “Innovation Workforce: Ready to Fly!” 

Contact Information:

Jen Simon

info@montereybaydart.org

Introduction to Advanced/Urban Air Mobility with Adam Cohen

/in , , , /by

The first of our webcast interviews with DART-connected experts in domains of expertise and relevance, view, listen and connect with Adam Cohen, Researcher with UC Berkeley Transportation Sustainability Research Center, as he and Josh metz discuss the exciting emerging field of Advanced/Urban Air Mobility.