The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) today announced the hiring of new staff and internal promotions. The personnel moves support the association’s mission to foster the growth, long-term viability, and stability of the uncrewed systems industry.

Casie Ocaña has joined as Director, Trusted Programs and will oversee AUVSI’s Trusted Cyber and Trusted Operator™ programs. Trusted Cyber is AUVSI’s voluntary cybersecurity certification for uncrewed systems and is based on industry-developed standards frameworks to address cyber risks specific to autonomy and robotics. Trusted Operator™ is AUVSI’s program to certify drone operators' proficiency and ability to operate safely.

Additionally, AUVSI’s Advocacy and Government Affairs Department announced the reorganization of the Industry Engagement team within the Advocacy Department, with Wes Morrison as Director of Industry Engagement and Nathan Hoback as Engagement Manager.

Finally, the Advocacy Department has promoted Max Rosen to Director of Government Affairs, Scott Shtofman to Director of Government Affairs, Chelsie Jeppson to Director of Communications, and Elizabeth Sila to Manager of Government Affairs.

These changes align staffing with recent announcements regarding AUVSI Advocacy initiatives:

• In September 2023, AUVSI launched a new Defense Advocacy Committee to support policies and funding for uncrewed and autonomous systems in the Department of Defense.

• The same month, AUVSI announced the launch of its "Partnership for Drone Competitiveness," a coalition formed to advocate for a stronger U.S. drone industry.

• In December 2023, AUVSI announced the launch of “AAM Prepared,” a multi-state initiative supported by Advanced Air Mobility industry leaders and manufacturers to help states and localities prepare for the future of advanced air transportation.

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