South Carolina ETV and Public Radio to participate in inaugural South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Symposium

South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Consortium hosts its first annual statewide symposium in Columbia

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is excited to announce its participation in the inaugural symposium hosted by the South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Consortium (SCiDUC) on May 30 at Segra Park in Columbia. The event, themed “Pushing State Agencies into the Sky,” marks a significant milestone in the evolution of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations among government agencies in South Carolina.

The one-day symposium will bring together a distinguished lineup of experts, government officials and drone enthusiasts, providing attendees with an opportunity to explore the multifaceted applications of drones across various government agencies. The event aims to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing and the advancement of UAS technology in the public sector.

Keynote speakers for the symposium include Kevin Morris from the Federal Aviation Administration, who will discuss the latest advancements and regulations in drone technology, and Casie Ocana, Director of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International’s Trusted Program, who will address cybersecurity concerns related to foreign-made drones. These sessions are designed to provide attendees with valuable insights into the future of UAS technology and the measures being implemented to ensure cybersecurity.

In addition to the keynote presentations, the symposium will feature an outdoor demonstration, vendor booths and academic lightning talks, offering a comprehensive overview of the current and future state of drone technology. Networking opportunities will allow participants to connect with industry leaders, university subject matter experts, and vendors showcasing the latest drone equipment. The full schedule for the symposium is available on the SCiDUC website.

SCETV, a member of SCiDUC, utilizes drones for filming and inspecting towers, showcasing the practical applications of UAS technology in broadcasting and infrastructure maintenance. SCETV Director of Engineering Tyler Brock, who also serves as the SCiDUC Vice President, has played a key role in planning the symposium.

SCiDUC is a nonprofit organization managed by South Carolina state employees to share information with peers. Membership is exclusive to federal, state and local government employees working in South Carolina. SCiDUC has over 330 members employed by 95 different governmental agencies. The organization is dedicated to improving communication between different agencies, leveraging each other’s strengths and educating members on cutting edge technology, regulatory changes and improvements to the industry. SCETV is a member of SCiDUC, among other state agencies such as the South Carolina Forestry Commission, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Transportation, Emergency Management Division and others.

To learn more information about the symposium, please visit the SCiDUC website.

“We are excited to be a part of this pioneering event that underscores the growing importance and diverse applications of drone technology within our state agencies. At SCETV, we recognize the transformative potential of drones in media and broadcasting and in enhancing public safety, infrastructure management and environmental monitoring. This symposium provides a valuable platform for collaboration and innovation, and we are proud to contribute to advancing UAS technology in South Carolina.” –SCETV Chief Technology Officer Mark Jahnke

“The inaugural SCiDUC symposium marks a significant milestone in South Carolina’s journey towards integrating drone technology into state government operations. It’s not just an event; it’s a collaborative endeavor that bridges the gap between technology and public service. We’re bringing together the brightest minds from government, academia and industry to explore how drones can transform our approach to challenges and opportunities. This symposium is a testament to our commitment to innovation, safety and efficiency in serving the people of South Carolina. Together, we’re pushing state agencies into the sky, aiming not just to meet the current needs but to anticipate and shape the future of public service through drone technology.” –SCiDUC Executive Director Joe Burgett

“At the heart of the SCiDUC Symposium lies a vision for a future where drones are not just tools, but partners in our mission to enhance public services across South Carolina. This event is a platform for innovation, a place where we can share insights, learn from each other and forge partnerships that will navigate the complexities of drone technology together. It’s about creating a community that’s ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow with the technologies of today. Our goal is to not only showcase what drones can do but to inspire a new generation of drone enthusiasts and professionals committed to leveraging this technology for the greater good of our communities.” –SCiDUC Vice President Tyler Brock

FAST FACTS

• The South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Consortium takes place on May 30, 2024, at Segra Park in Columbia.
• The one-day symposium provides attendees with an opportunity to explore the multifaceted applications of drones across various government agencies.
• The symposium will feature an outdoor demonstration, vendor booths and academic lightning talks, offering a comprehensive overview of the current and future state of drone technology.
• To learn more information about the symposium, please visit the SCiDUC website.

About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state’s public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as Carolina Classrooms, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice, Downing of a Flag and How She Rolls. In addition, SC Public Radio produces the national radio production, Chamber Music from Spoleto Festival USA.

About SCiDUC

The South Carolina Interagency Drone Users Consortium is dedicated to advancing the use of drone technology within state government agencies. It represents a collective effort by South Carolina state employees aimed at advancing the use and understanding of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) across various government agencies. By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, SCiDUC is dedicated to exploring the vast potential of drones in enhancing public service delivery, safety, and efficiency.