Future of Flight- Drone Technology in Action
Register here: RSVP
Looking for ways to reduce fuel use and lower operational costs? The answer might be taking flight.
Join us at Squabble State in Bristol, Virginia on May 15 for an engaging, hands-on event exploring the real-world impact of drone technology. From agriculture and public safety to infrastructure and local government, drones are transforming how work gets done—saving time, reducing mileage and improving efficiency.
Attendees will experience live flight demonstrations, see practical use cases in action and participate in interactive presentations that highlight how drones can outperform traditional, boots-on-the-ground approaches. The event will also spotlight career pathways in the growing drone industry and feature insights from professionals shaping its future.
Whether you’re looking to streamline operations, explore innovative tools or better understand emerging technologies, this event offers valuable takeaways for a wide range of sectors.
Schedule
Friday, May 15th at Squabble State, 7300 Brownlow Drive, Bristol, VA, 24202
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. | Fuel Up & Explore
Kick things off with a complimentary lunch* from the Virginia Tech Southwest Center, connect with fellow attendees, and explore interactive tables featuring regional community colleges and industry experts. Come early, grab a bite, and start making connections.
*Lunch will be provided for the first 50 to register. Other attendees are welcome to bring their own.
1:00 – 1:45 p.m. | Live in the Field: Drones in Agriculture
Watch drones take to the skies in a live spraying demonstration and see how this technology is transforming modern farming—boosting efficiency, cutting costs, and changing the game for agriculture. Presented by: Brandon Beal, Elevation Aerial Application
1:45 – 2:30 p.m. | Saving Lives from Above: Public Safety in Action
Experience the power of drones in search and rescue operations with a real-world demonstration from local first responders. See how seconds matter—and how drones are making them count. Presented by: Battalion Chief Brandon Moore, Lt. Tyler Wright, and Engineer Caleb Carico, Bristol Virginia Fire Department
2:30 – 2:45 p.m. | Recharge Break
Grab a snack, refresh, and get ready for the next round of innovation.
2:45 – 3:00 p.m. | Powering Progress: Drones & Infrastructure
Get hands-on with drone applications in utility work and infrastructure inspection. This interactive session showcases how drones are keeping the lights on—safer and smarter. Presented by: Appalachian Power
3:00 – 3:10 p.m. | Smart Cities from the Sky
Discover how drone mapping is helping local governments better manage utilities, plan smarter, and save money. Presented by: David Carney, City of Bristol, TN
3:10 – 3:25 p.m. | Economy Meets Innovation: Drones Driving Development
Explore how drone technology is opening new doors for economic growth, site development, and future business opportunities across Southwest Virginia. Presented by: Daniel Kestner, Virginia Department of Energy
3:25 – 3:35 p.m. | Tales from the Crypt
One of the most intriguing sessions of the day—see how drones are being used to locate unmarked graves and uncover hidden history. You won’t want to miss this. Presented by: Jonathan Smith, City of Bristol, TN
3:35 – 3:45 p.m. | Quick Break
Take a moment to recharge before the final session.
3:45 – 4:00 p.m. | What’s Next? The Future of Drones in Southwest Virginia
Technology is improving daily and one organization is testing all the new things. Find out about new innovative projects happening in Southwest Virginia and beyond. Presented by: Karen Jackson, Commonwealth Center for Advanced Logistics Systems
4:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Connect & Collaborate
Wrap up the day with a networking social. Meet speakers, industry professionals, and peers while exploring new partnerships and ideas. Squabble State’s tasting room will open at this time.