Lori DeMatteis is Chief Revenue Officer of Matrix Space.  MatrixSpace is a leading technology company specializing in advanced radar systems that deliver real-time situational awareness for uncrewed and autonomous systems. Their compact, lightweight radars offer precise detection and tracking, making them ideal for drones, advanced air mobility (AAM), public safety, and critical infrastructure. By integrating cutting-edge radar with AI, MatrixSpace enables safe, efficient operations in complex and dynamic airspace.

Lori plays a key role at MatrixSpace, leading sales and go-to-market strategies across various industries and regions. She has a strong track record of driving revenue growth for emerging technologies—taking companies public or guiding them through mergers. Prior to MatrixSpace, she served as Global VP of Customer Success, Sales, and Marketing at Iris Automation, and held leadership positions at GE, Oracle, Emerson, Honeywell, and Lavin Holdings. Her expertise spans hardware, software, and networking.

As beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations expand, the demand for scalable, precise detect-and-avoid solutions grows. MatrixSpace's portable radar systems are designed to meet that need. The company recently announced partnerships with AAM provider Skyway and public safety leader Advexure to support airspace awareness and safety. Lori works closely with these and other UAS/AAM partners to help navigate the evolving landscape of airspace management.

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Lori talks about MatrixSpace, their radar technology, and how organizations are integrating these tools into their airspace operations.

Kaitlyn Albertoli is CEO and co-founder of Buzz Solutions. Buzz Solutions leverages AI and drone technology to revolutionize how power utilities inspect and modernize their infrastructure. The company’s innovative software platform, featuring tools like PowerAI and PowerGUARD, uses advanced data analytics and machine learning to automate visual inspections, enhancing the safety, efficiency, and resilience of the electric grid. Their mission is to empower utilities to proactively monitor and manage their systems, reducing outages, preventing wildfires, and ensuring reliable energy delivery. Committed to driving innovation, Buzz Solutions equips teams with cutting-edge solutions to analyze data, collaborate seamlessly, and export actionable inspection results—all aimed at fostering smarter, more stable infrastructure for a sustainable future.

A Stanford University graduate with a background in sustainability and finance, Kaitlyn is widely regarded as a thought leader in the energy and technology sectors. She frequently speaks at industry events and conferences on topics spanning utilities, AI, and infrastructure resilience. Before co-founding Buzz Solutions with Vik Chaudhry to safeguard the world’s energy infrastructure, Kaitlyn worked as a wealth management analyst at JP Morgan Chase. In 2021, her leadership and vision earned her a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Together, she and Vik are tackling critical challenges like grid-sparked wildfires, power outages, and storm damage with a bold, tech-driven approach."

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Kaitlyn talks about Buzz Solutions, how AI and drones are transforming traditional utility inspections and the challenges of implementing and scaling these technologies.

Kevin Hernandez and Dutch Alessi are from Virtual Reality Rehab, or VRR. Founded in 2009, VRR is a pioneering research and development company with a bold mission: harnessing virtual and augmented reality technologies to push boundaries. With over 20 years of collective experience, their team specializes in creating innovative, multiplatform solutions for unmanned vehicle systems, advanced robotics, and next-level human-machine interfaces.

Now, VRR is making waves in drone warfare with a brilliantly simple idea called the HellHive. Picture this: a low-cost, portable shipping box that doesn’t just store and transport attack drones—it launches swarms of them, guided by their smart HoloWarrior software. This isn’t about building drones but supercharging them with tech like ‘BatMode’ for stealthy ambushes or scalable swarm assaults, all while keeping costs down. Imagine a cardboard box transforming how militaries deploy overwhelming force! With small Pentagon contracts already secured, VRR is now positioning it’s products for the commercial sector

Leading the charge is Kevin Hernandez, VRR’s Chief Operating Officer. Kevin directs R&D in electrical engineering, overseeing the integration and deployment of unmanned systems. He also spearheads product development, marketing, and sales for VRR’s HoloAccesories and Bee drones. Alongside him is Dutch Alessi, Chief Scientist, who collaborates with engineers and partners to unlock new swarm capabilities, driving innovation at every turn.

In this episode, Kevin and Dutch talk about VRR’s journey, the revolutionary HellHive and HoloWarrior systems, and how they’re bridging military prowess with commercial potential. 

Kraettli Epperso6 is CEO of Vigilant Aerospace Systems, a leading developer of multi-sensor detect-and-avoid and airspace management software for uncrewed aircraft systems, enabling safe and scalable beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations. Their flagship product, FlightHorizon™, is built on two NASA patents and integrates data from multiple sources to provide real-time air traffic awareness and automatic avoidance maneuvers, preventing collisions and ensuring seamless UAS integration into national airspace.

In 2023, Vigilant Aerospace was awarded a contract by the U.S. Air Force to develop a detect-and-avoid system for their long-endurance UAS, reinforcing their position as a key player in aerospace innovation. The company was also recognized as the Aerospace Innovator of the Year by 405 Business Magazine, highlighting its contributions to advancing safety and efficiency in autonomous systems. In addition to FlightHorizon™, Vigilant Aerospace provides integration and consulting services, working with partners like DronePort Network to support regional airspace management and economic development initiatives.

Kraettli brings extensive expertise in uncrewed aircraft technology and airspace management. As CEO of Vigilant Aerospace, he oversees the company's contracts with NASA, the FAA, and the U.S. Air Force, and has participated in over 45 uncrewed aircraft flight tests. A recognized industry leader, he serves on the FAA’s BVLOS Aviation Rulemaking Committee, is a member of the ASTM F38 Committee on UAS technical standards, and has co-authored multiple AIAA papers on autonomy and collision avoidance systems. He is also the co-inventor of four technology patents, shaping the future of autonomous aviation.

In this episode of the drone radio show, Kraettli talks about Vigilant Aerospace, it’s detect-and-avoid system and how organizations are using drones to advance economic development.

Bill Irby is the CEO of AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. AgEagle is a global technology leader specializing in enhancing situational awareness through advanced robotics solutions. The company focuses on providing autonomous drones designed to tackle mission-critical challenges with high-value solutions.

Founded in 2010, AgEagle initially pioneered professional-grade, fixed-wing drones and aerial imagery tailored to the agriculture industry. Over the years, the company has expanded its reach and is now a leading provider of full-stack drone solutions for industries including energy, construction, agriculture, and government sectors worldwide.

As CEO, Bill brings a wealth of experience to AgEagle. A United States Naval Academy graduate, Bill has more than 25 years of senior management expertise in uncrewed air and maritime systems, ISR systems, actuation hardware, and communication systems. His career includes serving as Vice President at Northrop Grumman, one of the world’s largest defense technology providers, generating $30 billion annually. He also served as President of MTI and Steel Partners Holdings.  Additionally, Bill is an active Board member of Ghost Robotics and the Chairman of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Bill discusses AgEagle’s evolution and technology, the company’s expansion into military and public safety markets and the role of AI and innovation in the Drone Industry.

Jackie Dujmovic is founder and CEO of Australian based Hover UAV.  Hover UAV is a trailblazer in the drone industry, helping clients advance their operations and navigate the complexities of drone regulations. By understanding each client's unique needs, the team creates customized procedures, documentation, and policies to ensure success in this fast-growing field.

Whether it’s a client’s first commercial flight or they’re pursuing specialized approvals for cutting-edge missions, Hover UAV offers a full suite of services. These include building organizational strategies, crafting industry-standard safety cases, and providing policy recommendations to keep clients ahead in the game.

One of their standout achievements is the development of SORA-Mate, an online risk assessment tool created with ANRA Technologies as part of the Australian Government’s Emerging Aviation Technologies Partnerships Program. SORA-Mate simplifies the process of securing BVLOS approvals, making advanced drone operations more accessible and streamlining regulatory requirements.

Jackie brings nearly a decade of experience in the UAS industry. She’s not only a commercial UAS pilot but also an accomplished Chief Remote Pilot, known for building strong communication frameworks with regulators across local, national, and international levels. Her mission? To integrate drones seamlessly into everyday life, all while maintaining a firm commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

Beyond her work at Hover UAV, Jackie serves on the boards of Safeskies Australia, the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems, and the Vertical Flight Society, further contributing to the growth and safety of the drone industry.

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Jackie shares Hover UAV’s innovative approach to drone operations, key lessons learned from working with global leaders in drone technology, and her insights into the emerging trends shaping the future of the industry.

Arcady Shteynberg and Eddie Benett are with the Omada Group.  Omada was formed to take the best, most forward thinking ideas and technology to the public space. A partnership of several  companies, Omada brings UAV, technology, rescue, training, consulting, and other innovations into one centralized business hub. The company’s goal is to find the right-fit solution to address a company’s biggest challenges.

Arcady is owner and partner of OMADA Group, where he leads efforts in developing innovative solutions for first responders, particularly in water-based search and rescue operations. His work includes collaborating with agencies to create standards for UAV operators deploying emergency flotation devices. Under his leadership, OMADA Group has also formed strategic partnerships with distributors in the fire, water safety and drone industry, as well as some strategic partnerships with manufacturers like BRINC Drones, to offer comprehensive drone rescue solutions.

Eddie is a 30+ year veteran of manned aviation and a former aircrew for Queensland Police in Australia. He is also a leading expert and innovator in the autonomous vehicle industry, who has also served on NASA Working Groups for Air Mobility as a Public Safety Expert. Furthermore, he is the founder and driving force behind Complete AUV. Eddie specializes in creating cutting-edge solutions for manned aviation programs, search and rescue, and commercial applications. 

In 2018, Two teenage boys swimming off the coast of Australia, struggling to make their way back to shore, were saved by a drone that had dropped a self-inflating rescue pod into the water.  This was the first-of-its-kind rescue mission of swimmers by an unmanned aircraft.  Advancing the use of emergency flotation devices in drone rescue missions is one of Omada’s core objectives.

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show Podcast, Arcady and Eddie talk about Omada Group,  emergency flotation devices and how this technology can help save lives.

Dylan Hamm is Chief Technology Officer at PDW. PDW is a cutting-edge drone technology company revolutionizing small robotics for military and government operations. Their mission is to democratize air support, empowering and protecting those who serve. PDW produces air vehicles, autonomous and AI software, as well as countermeasures in areas like electronic warfare, communications, and GPS denial. Their flagship product, the C100 small UAS, is a versatile quadcopter designed to fit inside a warfighter’s rucksack, providing personal air support on the frontline.

As the CTO of PDW, Dylan leads he company’s product roadmap and R&D strategy. With 12 years of experience in special forces and eight global deployments, Dylan has witnessed the transformative power of small unmanned systems in real-time combat scenarios. Toward the end of his military career, he saw firsthand how these systems were reshaping modern warfare, fueling his passion for exploring their full potential.

In this episode, Dylan shares insights into PDW’s mission, the ways small drones are changing the battlefield, and the innovative tactics and technologies being developed to counter drone threats.

Mary-Lou Smulders is Chief Marketing Officer at Dedrone.  Dedrone is a world leader in smart airspace security. Hundreds of commercial, government and military customers around the world rely on Dedrone’s comprehensive, command and control solution to protect against the persistent and escalating threat from drones while enabling “good” drones to fly. By leveraging AI/ML, Dedrone is the only solution that provides continuous, autonomous drone interrogation and verification that enables both multi-sensor and multi-mitigation options onto a single "pane-of-glass".  Dedrone customers can easily detect, track, identify, analyze and mitigate drone threats.    

During her twenty-year high-tech career, Mary-Lou has served as Chief Marketing Officer at several enterprise software entities including financial technology company 9th Gear and crisis communication systems leader AtHoc. Additionally, she served as Senior Vice President of Global Applications and Services Marketing for Oracle Corporation and started her career as a rig engineer.

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Mary-Lou talks about Dedrone and the role of AI and Machine Learning in creating an effective drone mitigation system.

Beth Flippo is CEO of Drone Express.  Drone Express is an innovative aviation company disrupting last-mile logistics by embracing autonomous flight. Founded in 2021, the company uses drones to deliver safe, reliable, autonomous, eco-friendly packages nationwide to customers. They have secured strategic nationwide corporate partnerships with The Kroger Company, Papa John’s International, Winsupply, and other retailers. The FAA formally accepted its Part 135 application. Upon completion, Drone Express will be one of only a few companies certified to perform unmanned beyond visual line of sight deliveries in the United States.  On September 13, Drone Express launched their drone delivery service in Winston-Salem.

Beth is an accomplished embedded engineer with over 20 years of experience in the finance and technology industries. She has designed and developed advanced mobile communications solutions and is passionate about robotics and unmanned systems.  Before launching Drone Express, Beth was Vice President of Embedded Software Development at TELEGRID Technologies.

She began her career in the finance industry in New York City, designing systems for quantitative trading and financial analysis for equity transactions on the New York Stock Exchange. Her experience includes several prestigious investment banks and brokerage firms, including UBS PaineWebber, Cantor Fitzgerald, and Goldman Sachs.  Beth holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the Thomas Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of New York at Binghamton. She is a licensed drone pilot with the FAA and has a radio operator license, W2QNB, from the FCC.

In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Beth talks about Drone Express, the company’s official launch into Winston-Salem and how autonomous drone delivery can provide economic and ecological benefits to communities.