Aviation industry leaders, government officials and academic experts gathered Wednesday at Kent State University for Dronavation – Navigating the Sky: Legal Frameworks and Regulatory Challenges in a Roadless Environment, a comprehensive symposium focused on the future of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM).
The day-long event, hosted by Kent State's College of Aeronautics and Engineering, brought together stakeholders to examine regulatory frameworks and legal challenges in the evolving drone industry.
"Hosting Dronavation demonstrates Kent State's commitment to being at the forefront of advanced air mobility education and research," said Dr. Rubén Del Rosario, Professor and Director of the Center for Advanced Air Mobility at Kent State University. "By bringing together industry leaders, regulators, and academics, we're creating vital dialogues that will shape the future of aviation in Ohio and beyond."
The symposium featured presentations from key figures in aviation regulation and development, including Erik W. Amend, Regional Administrator for the FAA's Great Lakes Region, and Colonel (Ret) Joseph E. Zeiss, Senior Advisor for Aerospace and Defense for the State of Ohio.
Richard Fox, Director of the UAS Center at the Ohio Department of Transportation, discussed state-level drone operations, while Renato Camacho, President and CEO of Akron-Canton Airport and Kent State Board of Trustees member, provided insights on drone integration at traditional airports.
The event also addressed crucial legal and enforcement aspects of drone operations. Heather Spangler, General Attorney for the Federal Aviation Administration, presented on current and future UAS enforcement strategies, while Justine Harrison, General Counsel for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, covered aviation legal ethics.
James Grimsley, Executive Director for Advanced Technology Initiatives with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, explored policy and technology challenges in emerging aviation technology. Dr. Timothy Ravich from the University of Central Florida discussed the development of aviation regulations in unprecedented airspace scenarios.
The symposium, which offered continuing legal education credits, was conducted in a hybrid format to accommodate both in-person and remote attendees. Industry professionals Chris Pezalla and Jason Lorenzon rounded out the program with presentations on workforce development and FAA grant applications.
Events like Dronavation underscore Kent State's dedication to providing personalized, transformative educational experiences. Through direct engagement with industry pioneers and emerging technologies, the University cultivates curious minds and innovative thinkers poised to drive progress in an increasingly interconnected world.