Tag Archive for: Innovation

Take Flight at FIRA-USA 2024: Join Monterey Bay DART’s Drone Pavilion!

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Gear up for takeoff, drone innovators! Monterey Bay DART is is pleased to announce its partnership with HawkTower and to once again host a premium drone pavilion during the FIRA-USA event October 22-24 in Woodland/Sacramento.

FIRA-USA is the premier event for everything autonomous farming and agricultural robotics. It’s your chance to rub shoulders with industry titans, showcase your cutting-edge tech, and be at the forefront of the agricultural revolution!

Why Monterey Bay DART pavilion is your launchpad to success:

  • Strategic Location: Our centrally located pavilion puts you in the heart of the action, maximizing visibility and allowing you to connect with potential clients throughout the event.
  • Unified Presence: Benefit from a professional setting designed to amplify your brand and technology alongside fellow drone pioneers.
  • Premium Amenities: Each participant gets a dedicated 8′ x 8′ space with a table and chairs, access to a shared meeting area, and electricity to power your demos. The pavilion itself boasts a spacious 40′ x 40′ footprint with an open-air side for effortless interaction.
  • Elevated Marketing: The pavilion receives targeted marketing, and you’ll enjoy Silver-level marketing benefits for your company.
  • Cost-Effective Opportunity: Secure your spot at a fraction of the price! Spaces in the pavilion offer a significant discount compared to standard FIRA-USA exhibitor rates.

“Monterey Bay DART is thrilled to partner with HawkTower to offer a premium shared expo zone at the upcoming FIRA-USA 2024. This collaborative space provides startups and established companies alike with a powerful platform to showcase their innovative solutions and connect with a global audience in the agricultural robotics industry,” said Executive Director of Monterey Bay DART Josh Metz. “Participants benefit from a furnished and functional space and a comprehensive marketing strategy designed to elevate brand awareness. We’re excited to foster collaboration and accelerate growth within the ag robotics sector.”

Here’s the deal:

  • $2000 Young Startup (Pavilion Booth & Silver sponsorship benefits)
  • $3500 (Pavilion Booth, Silver sponsorship benefits, No Demo)
  • $7000 (Pavilion Booth, Silver sponsorship benefits, With Demo)

Space is limited, so don’t delay! The deadline to join this exclusive opportunity is July 24th, 2024.  Download the event brochure from the button below or sign up HERE today and secure your prime position within the Monterey Bay DART Pavilion at FIRA-USA 2024! Let’s take agricultural robotics to new heights, together!

Pavilion Brochure

DoD Powering Innovation, Empowering Entrepreneurs: Startup Connect Meeting Recap!

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The Startup Connect meetup on Tuesday, March 12th, hosted by  Monterey Bay DART and the Institute for Innovation & Economic Development (iiED) provided presentations and conversations focused on the Department of Defense (DoD) research ecosystem that drives innovation in military technology. Collaborating with government agencies, private companies, and academic institutions is crucial to nurturing a culture of experimentation and learning. During the meetup, discussions highlighted the safe integration of drones into the national airspace and the opportunities and challenges that come with it, including aerospace integration and safety. Other topics discussed include the importance of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) in promoting economic growth and employment opportunities in Monterey County. It was emphasized that innovation and experimentation play a crucial role in developing solutions for national security, and it is essential to leverage the ecosystem to turn ideas into prototypes, especially by enabling technologies.

Are you interested in unlocking the secrets of military innovation? Did you miss the recent discussion on safe drone integration and the future of aerospace? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Learn how the Department of Defense, businesses, and research universities collaborate to develop cutting-edge technologies. Discover how you can transform your ideas into national security solutions and help boost Monterey’s economy.

Marco Romano, NavalX

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Ashley Brook, NPS

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Art Siordia, Airspace Integration

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Jordan Caballero, Monterey Bay APEX Accelerator

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Bill Sherrod, HawkTower

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CCAIPA release MBDART-A3 graphic

Monterey Bay DART Partners with A3 to Unravel Investment Secrets of Advanced Aviation Boom

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CCAIPA release MBDART-A3 graphic

Marina, CA | December 19, 2023 – Monterey Bay DART is thrilled to announce a partnership with Advanced Aviation Alignment (A3) to unlock the secrets behind successful public-private investments in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and drone technology. This research will delve into how targeted investments in infrastructure, testing sites, and enablement areas can ignite economic growth, create quality career pathways, and strengthen regional resilience.

Across the US, communities are embracing AAM and sophisticated drone operations as game-changers for transportation, sustainability, and economic development. This study will analyze how strategic public investments in these sectors have led to the creation of exportable products, boosted local economies, and fostered inclusive job opportunities.

Key Research Focus:

Public-Private Investment Dynamics: The research will dissect the intricate relationship between public investments and private sector engagement in the AAM ecosystem. By studying successful initiatives across the country, the team aims to identify best practices for attracting private investment and fostering robust AAM ecosystems.
Sustainable Growth and Resilience: The study will explore how AAM investments can contribute to sustainable and resilient regional economies. This includes analyzing the potential for job creation, environmental benefits, and diversification of local economies.

Equitable Workforce Development: A crucial focus will be on understanding how AAM investments can create equitable pathways for community members to access quality jobs in the industry. The research will identify best practices for ensuring inclusive participation in this burgeoning field.

Driving Innovation in California: Monterey Bay DART, a leader in convening stakeholders and fostering innovative future-relevant markets, sees this partnership as a vital step forward. By understanding the impact of strategic investments, they aim to attract further private capital, inform policy decisions, and create an environment conducive to AAM development in Central California.

Quotes:

Josh Metz, Executive Director of Monterey Bay DART: “California has a rich aviation history, and we’re committed to keeping the innovation engine running. This research will help us leverage AAM’s potential for all Californians, creating jobs, boosting economies, and positioning our region as a leader in this revolutionary field.”

Matt Beatty, Founder and Principal Consultant of A3: “A3 is excited to join forces with MB DART, building on their impressive work with partners like Joby. By learning from other successful initiatives, we can develop a roadmap for California to stay ahead of the curve in the AAM revolution.”

Report and Timeline:

The research is expected to be completed in fall 2024 and will culminate in a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations for public and private stakeholders. The findings will be presented to the Monterey Bay DART Board of Directors and made available to the public.

Contact: For more information, please contact Monterey Bay DART at (831) 264-8299.

About Monterey Bay DART:

The Monterey Bay Drone, Automation, and Robotics Technology (DART) initiative is a non-profit dedicated to advancing future-relevant workforce and economic development solutions. Learn more: https://Montereybaydart.org

About Advanced Aviation Alignment Consulting:

A3 guides state, local, and industry stakeholders through the evolving aviation landscape, focusing on AAM. Learn more: https://advancedaviationalignment.com/

2023 Year in Review

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

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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!

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

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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/.

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**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

2022 Monterey Bay DART Symposium Reaches New Heights

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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!” 

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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.”

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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

Shari Tavaf joins Monterey Bay DART as Project Manager

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Marina, CA. CA. Shari Tavaf, a seasoned project manager in the transportation infrastructure industry joins Monterey Bay Drone, Automation and Robotics Technology (DART) Initiative to support the Executive Director Josh Metz in delivering the scope of work under the James Irvine Foundation Grant received last month. As part of the Foundation’s on-going Priority Communities Initiative, the $1.5M research and development grant will be used to increase technical capabilities in the Monterey Bay Region.

Shari will be focused on advancing workforce development initiatives in the region while partnering with the community-based organizations, supporting the current partnership with Joby Aviation and CSU Monterey Bay, and leading the feasibility study to identify optimal locations for the training facilities that will meet the upcoming demand for advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies in the area.

“We are thrilled to welcome Shari the DART team. She brings a wealth of experience with transportation system-related project management, workforce development and inter-governmental relations. Shari adds a strong engineering and organizational development component to our team and will be instrumental in helping us accomplish our goals,” said Monterey Bay DART Executive Director Josh Metz.

“I am very excited to join the DART team. The Irvine Foundation’s focus on increasing high-road opportunities and inclusive economic development in the Salinas Valley and the Monterey Bay region is perfectly aligned with my personal and professional values of transferring knowledge for meaningful growth. As I relocate to Monterey, I look forward to serving my new community, work closely with our local partners to develop and implement a robust technical training program and associated facilities,” said Shari Tavaf, Monterey Bay DART Project Manager.

Our expanding regional economic development initiative focused on innovation, job creation, and new venture formation, supported by the Irvine Foundation and through regional coordination, will leverage existing opportunities to expand new quality jobs and increase inclusive economic benefits.

Monterey Bay Drone, Automation & Robotics Technology (DART) Initiative. Monterey Bay DART is a 501 c3 organization working to align industry, academia, and governments towards these growth sectors for new venture formation, jobs growth and community vitality. More information can be found online at www.MontereyBayDART.org

Joby Aviation. Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY) is a California-based transportation company developing an all-electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft which it intends to operate as part of a fast, quiet, and convenient service in cities around the world. To learn more, visit www.jobyaviation.com.

CSUMB Institute for Innovation & Economic Development (iiED). The iiED supports the founding, funding, and growth of new ventures in the Monterey Bay Region. iiED is an institute of the College of Business at CSU Monterey Bay.

James Irvine Foundation. The James Irvine Foundation is a private, nonprofit grantmaking foundation dedicated to expanding opportunity for the people of California. The Foundation’s grantmaking is committed to a California where all low-income workers have the power to advance economically. Since 1937 the Foundation has provided more than $1.98 billion in grants to nonprofit organizations throughout California. With about $2.5 billion in assets, the Foundation made grants of $105 million in 2019.

UAS Workforce Opportunities in Forestry

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The fields of drones (Uncrewed Aerial Systems, UAS), automated systems, and robotics technologies (DART) have rapidly advanced over the past decade yielding new tools for environmental management and a broad array of other applications. These technological innovations are the result of both public and private research & development investment, and represent emerging markets for future workforce engagement. Over this same time period we have experienced increasingly frequent occurrences of climate driven catastrophes such as wildfire, drought and floods. As a result, there is real urgency to conceive of novel solutions to these environmental challenges. The hope is that drones and related technologies of remote sensing and spatial analysis can be part of those solutions, while providing value through generating future workforce opportunities.

Data collected by drones can be applied to a variety of environmental management fields including agriculture, environmental conservation, timber management, watershed management, climate change monitoring, disturbance mitigation, wildland management, fire management, and urban-wildland interface management among many others.  Imagery data captured by drones for the purposes of land management and ecosystem monitoring can be used to evaluate ecosystem health under stress (Daly 2019), track and monitor wildlife (Prosekov et al 2020), pest outbreaks and disease spread (Filho et al 2020), ecosystem regeneration after disturbance, shifts in ecosystem after disturbance (Jiménez et al 2019), and monitor fires (Aydin et al 2019, Afghah et al 2019) among many other applications.  

As drones become indispensable tools for land management, with the capabilities of drones to collect high frequency, high resolution data on a variety of spatial and temporal scales.  We recognize that a critical priority for California is to have a workforce ready and able to support the innovation, manufacturing, and application of drones across a wide variety of industries.

With an eye towards informing workforce developers, educators and policy-makers focused on meeting the urgent need for a future focused forest management workforce, this paper provides:

  • an overview of drone-related investment trends and technology education opportunities in California;
  • an analysis of drone and forestry-related wage and hiring trends to paint a picture of recent market demand for drone and drone-related skills;
  • Calls out the imperative to design and build a modern workforce that takes advantage of the inherent strength of our States rich cultural diversity; and
  • contemplates a characterization of drone and forestry related career pathways.

Recognizing the inherent limitations of projecting emerging technology skill demands based on backward looking datasets, this paper also highlights innovative companies pushing the envelope towards next generation drone-based forest land management applications. Finally, we characterize the current state of diversity, equity and inclusion in the STEM workforce, and present the case for explicit action to ensure the emerging drone and forestry related hiring makes room for a workforce reflective of the rich, cultural diversity of the State of California.

University Related Entrepreneurship & Innovation

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Join CSU Monterey Bay Professor Brad Barbeau, Institute for Innovation and Economic Development Executive Director, and UC Santa Cruz Director of Industry Alliances Andrea Pesce in talking about the University Related Entrepreneurship and Innovation support activities happening around the Monterey Bay Region.

Tag Archive for: Innovation

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