Nearly 50 attendees gathered near the orchard at Squabble State Hard Cider & Spirits in Bristol, Virginia, to watch a drone lift off and spray water across a nearby field — the first of many demonstrations highlighting how drone technology is transforming industries through improved efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions.
The day began with an impressive aerial application demonstration from Elevation Aerial Application, showcasing how drones are helping farmers reduce fuel consumption by an estimated 30 percent. Throughout the event, speakers and demonstrations reinforced a common theme: drones are helping organizations work smarter, faster and more sustainably.
Representatives from Appalachian Power demonstrated how the utility uses drones to inspect power lines and identify issues in real time. By integrating drone technology into operations, the company has reduced outage response times and improved accuracy for field crews, minimizing unnecessary driving and walking while helping crews pinpoint problems more efficiently.
Public safety applications also took center stage. Firefighters from Bristol Virginia Fire Department demonstrated how drones equipped with infrared technology can quickly identify individuals in need of assistance, helping first responders save valuable time during emergencies. Meanwhile, officials from City of Bristol Tennessee highlighted how drones have been used to map utility infrastructure throughout the city, streamlining repairs and helping remove barriers to future development projects.
Economic development opportunities were another key focus. Representatives from Virginia Energy shared how drones are collecting valuable site data on reclaimed coal mine lands across Southwest Virginia. From mapping topography to identifying nearby power and transmission infrastructure, drone-collected data is helping position formerly unused properties as viable assets for future industrial and commercial development in coalfield communities.
Attendees also learned about a unique historical preservation initiative in Bristol, where drone technology is being used to locate gravesites no longer visible from the ground. Through aerial imaging and interactive mapping tools, the project is reconnecting families and genealogists with the graves of ancestors who may have otherwise remained lost to time.
The event concluded with an inspiring keynote presentation from Karen Jackson of the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Logistics Systems, who discussed the future of drone technology and the potential impact of beyond-visual-line-of-sight policy changes on the industry. Jackson also highlighted ongoing aviation and drone initiatives at regional airports, including projects underway in Wise County, Virginia.
Between demonstrations and presentations, attendees had the opportunity to connect with representatives from Mountain Empire Community College and Virginia Highlands Community College to learn more about drone certification programs and workforce training opportunities available in the region.
The event was hosted by Squabble State Hard Cider & Spirits and sponsored by the Virginia Tech Southwest Center.