Propellers may not be the “sexy” part of an aircraft, but the team at Athule Aero is proving they’re the key to unlocking the future of advanced air mobility. In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Tony Bacarella, CEO of Athule, to explore how their patented “Double Break” propeller technology is cutting noise by up to 75% and improving efficiency by up to 15%. From custom AI-designed blades for drones to game-changing applications in manned VTOLs, general aviation and even naval uses, Tony explains why the humble propeller is the next big catalyst for aerospace innovation.

Tony Bacarella is the CEO of Athule Aero, a company redefining propeller technology for drones, advanced air mobility, and general aviation. Working with co-founders from the Air Force Academy and Baylor University, Tony helped transform patented “Double Break” propeller technology—originally validated through an AFWERX SBIR program—into a scalable business. Under his leadership, Athule has developed AI/ML-driven design tools to deliver quieter, more efficient, custom propellers for applications ranging from ISR military platforms to urban air taxis.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-bacarella-95969411/

Athule Aero is an innovative aerospace company specializing in next-generation propeller technology for drones, advanced air mobility, and general aviation. Using its patented “Double Break” blade design and AI-driven engineering tools, Athule creates custom propellers that dramatically reduce noise and improve efficiency. With roots in Air Force–backed research, the company delivers quieter, more efficient solutions for commercial, military, and urban air mobility applications—helping unlock the full potential of next-generation aircraft.

“Knocking the cabin noise down by 75% for somebody and giving them 10–15% more range is going to be really significant.” — Tony Bacarella [00:00:00]

“The propeller is actually one of the few places you can impact a vehicle nearly as much as we can.” — Tony Bacarella [00:04:49]

“We deload the tip, eliminate the vortex, and can even shape the noise profile around the airframe.” — Tony Bacarella [00:08:36]

“Advanced air mobility is the hockey stick for the industry in the manned space.” — Tony Bacarella [00:15:20]

“We can deliver a custom propeller in days, not months, using cloud-based AI and additive manufacturing.” — Tony Bacarella [00:17:28]

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Dana Sande, President of the UND Aerospace Foundation, to explore how the University of North Dakota became a global leader in aviation and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) education. From pioneering the first unmanned aircraft pilot degree program in the U.S. to building cutting-edge facilities like Gorman Field, the conversation dives into UND’s influence on commercial aviation, UAS innovation, and partnerships with both private industry and the military.

Listeners will gain insight into how UND’s Aerospace Foundation helps the university “operate at the speed of business,” supporting rapid prototyping, pilot training, and drone testing—all while keeping education affordable for future aviation leaders.

If you’ve ever wondered how UND shaped the future of unmanned aviation and why Grand Forks has become a hub for aerospace innovation, this episode is packed with answers.

Dana Sande is the President of the UND Aerospace Foundation, a nonprofit organization created to help the University of North Dakota’s aerospace program connect with governments, industries, and international partners. With a background in aviation training, business development, and community leadership, Dana has been instrumental in expanding UND’s role as a global hub for aviation and unmanned systems education. Under his leadership, the Foundation supports flight training, UAS development, curriculum design, and partnerships that shape the future of aviation.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-sande-b16b7215/

The UND Aerospace Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to support and expand the world-class aviation programs at the University of North Dakota. Established in 1985, the foundation helps UND operate at the speed of business by partnering with governments, airlines, and aerospace companies around the globe. From pilot and air traffic control training to curriculum development, unmanned aircraft systems, and advanced research, the foundation bridges education with industry needs. Its revenues are reinvested into UND’s aerospace program, providing cutting-edge facilities, maintaining part of the university’s training fleet, and ensuring affordable, high-quality education for future aviation leaders.

“Most people don’t know that the University of North Dakota had the first unmanned aircraft pilot degree program in the country.” – Dana Sande

“Our foundation was designed to help the University operate at the speed of business.” – Dana Sande

“We like to provide the best facilities for students—because it’s important for them to learn in an environment as nice as where they’ll ultimately work.” – Dana Sande

“There are more UND grads flying Predators worldwide than any group outside of the U.S. military.” – Dana Sande

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with John Ibele, co-founder of Meadowlark Aircraft Manufacturing, to explore the future of American-made drones. With decades of experience in high-volume manufacturing at Seagate, Ibele shares how lessons from producing millions of disk drive components in Asia can be applied to building drones right here in the U.S. The conversation spans topics like design for manufacturing (DFM), the advantages of domestic production, the challenges of scaling drone manufacturing, and the ambitious vision behind Meadowlark’s flagship fixed-wing VTOL drone, the FH125 “Strix.”

This episode is a fascinating look at how North Dakota is emerging as a hub for aerospace innovation, and how entrepreneurs like Ibele are determined to strengthen America’s manufacturing resilience in the drone industry.

John Ibele is the co-founder of Meadowlark Aircraft Manufacturing, a Grand Forks, North Dakota-based company building custom and scalable drones for commercial applications. With a career rooted in high-volume manufacturing at Seagate Technology, John brings deep expertise in design for manufacturing (DFM), process optimization, and global supply chain operations. His vision for Meadowlark is to revitalize domestic drone production, leveraging American innovation, skilled labor, and North Dakota’s strong UAS ecosystem.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ibele/

Meadowlark Aircraft Manufacturing is a North Dakota–based aerospace company dedicated to designing and building innovative, American-made drones. Founded by industry veterans with deep expertise in high-volume manufacturing, Meadowlark focuses on both custom solutions and scalable production to meet the growing demand for unmanned aerial systems. With flagship products like the FH125 “Strix,” a fixed-wing VTOL designed for endurance and versatility, Meadowlark aims to serve industries such as agriculture, wildlife management, perimeter security, and emergency response—all while strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities.

India may be the world’s seventh-largest country with the largest population, but when it comes to helicopters, the numbers tell a surprising story—just 270 helicopters serve over 1.4 billion people. In this episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Air Marshal (Retd.) Anil Butola, President of the Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI) and former Indian Air Force test pilot, to unpack the state of India’s helicopter and vertical lift industry.

From his 42-year career in the Indian Air Force to leading efforts to reform civil aviation regulations, Air Marshal Butola shares unique insights into India’s helicopter challenges, opportunities, and the emerging role of EVTOLs and advanced air mobility. This episode dives into the regulatory hurdles, infrastructure gaps, and the bold vision for India’s vertical flight future.

Whether you’re an aviation professional, policymaker, or simply curious about the next frontier in aerospace, this conversation delivers insider perspectives on the future of vertical lift in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Air Marshal (Retd.) Anil Butola served over 42 years in the Indian Air Force, including roles as a fighter pilot, instructor, and test pilot. Rising to the rank of Air Marshal (equivalent to a U.S. Lieutenant General), he has been at the forefront of India’s aviation leadership. After retiring in 2020, he became the President of the Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI), a nonprofit established in 1998 to represent and advance the helicopter industry in India. Under his leadership, RWSI advocates for regulatory reforms, industry growth, and the integration of new technologies such as EVTOLs and advanced air mobility.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/as-butola-31b96ab/?originalSubdomain=in

The Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI), established in 1998, is a nonprofit professional body dedicated to the growth and advancement of the helicopter industry in India. It serves as a vital link between operators, regulators, manufacturers, and aviation professionals, working to address industry challenges, influence policy, and promote safe and efficient helicopter operations. With members ranging from pilots and engineers to industry leaders, RWSI plays a key role in driving innovation, supporting training initiatives, and advocating for greater use of helicopters in sectors such as offshore operations, emergency medical services, law enforcement, and disaster relief.

 In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Tom Kading, entrepreneur, engineer, and founder of Fargo Patent Law, to discuss how aerospace innovators can protect and leverage their intellectual property. From patents and trade secrets to brand strategy and investor readiness, Tom shares practical advice for startups and established companies navigating the rapidly growing UAS and aerospace markets. Whether you’re building drones, VTOLs, or next-gen software, this conversation will help you rethink IP not just as paperwork, but as a core business asset.

Tom Kading is an entrepreneur, engineer, and patent attorney with a passion for helping innovative businesses protect and leverage their intellectual property. As founder of Fargo Patent Law, Tom advises startups and established aerospace companies on strategies that go beyond paperwork—building real business value through patents, trade secrets, contracts, and branding. With offices in Grand Forks, Fargo, and Colorado Springs, Tom and his team are deeply engaged in the rapidly evolving aerospace and UAS ecosystem.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-kading-1870b727/

About Fargo Patent Law

Fargo Patent Law is a boutique intellectual property law firm dedicated to helping innovators protect and maximize the value of their ideas. Founded by entrepreneur and patent attorney Tom Kading, the firm combines legal expertise with real-world business insight to craft IP strategies that fuel growth. With offices in Grand Forks, Fargo, and Colorado Springs, Fargo Patent Law serves startups and established companies nationwide—particularly in the fast-growing aerospace and UAS industries—by providing guidance on patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and contracts.

In this inspiring episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aviation advocate Cynthia Glenn live at VertiCon. Together, they tackle one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: how to bring more women into aviation. Cynthia shares her personal journey into flying, the hurdles she faced, and the mentors who encouraged her to pursue her dream. She also highlights the power of community, mentorship, and personal invitation in breaking down barriers and inspiring the next generation of women pilots.

Listeners will discover how organizations like the 99s and Women in Aviation International are shaping opportunities for women, why relational outreach matters, and how individual action can make a massive difference in creating diversity and inclusion in the cockpit.

Cynthia Glenn is a passionate aviator, mentor, and advocate for women in aviation. After reigniting her dream of flying during the COVID era, she pursued drone certification, ground instructor credentials, and eventually her pilot’s license. Today, she owns and flies a Cessna 182 and is building innovative pathways for others to access aviation through her cooperative model. Cynthia is actively involved in organizations like the 99s and Women in Aviation International, writes for In Flight USA, and mentors aspiring female pilots.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-glenn-202888118/ 

Women in Aviation International (WAI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging and advancing women in all areas of aviation and aerospace. Founded in 1990, WAI provides resources, scholarships, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help women pursue and grow careers as pilots, engineers, technicians, air traffic controllers, astronauts, and industry leaders. With thousands of members worldwide, WAI hosts an annual conference that brings together professionals, students, and enthusiasts to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation of aviation pioneers.

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Brabs” Brabner for a deep dive into the rapidly evolving world of military drone technology. With over 25 years in the U.S. Army and extensive experience in combat, defense acquisitions, and unmanned systems, Brabner shares his insights on how drones are permanently transforming warfare. From lessons learned in Iraq and Afghanistan to real-time observations from Ukraine, he explains the strategic, tactical, and operational advantages of small UAS, the Army’s shift toward purpose-built attritable systems, and the importance of rapid adaptation. This conversation explores cutting-edge developments like EOIR sensors, communication relay payloads, and kinetic FPV drones, while stressing the urgency of innovation, regulatory reform, and industry collaboration to maintain U.S. drone dominance.

[00:00:00] Brabner on the growing realization across the DoD that failure to adapt to drone technology could result in catastrophic consequences in future conflicts.
[00:04:09] Lessons from Ukraine: how free battlefield lessons inform U.S. joint requirements and innovation.
[00:06:39] Shift from snipers to drone operators as the most lethal battlefield role; drones destroying thousands of armored vehicles.
[00:10:45] Addressing past capability gaps: shortening the sensor-to-shooter timeline and empowering tactical units with organic UAS assets.
[00:13:55] The hunter-killer paradigm: pairing reconnaissance drones with kinetic FPV systems for maximum effect.
[00:18:13] Importance of communication extension payloads for operational advantage in denied environments.
[00:20:45] Electronic warfare payloads and survivability in GPS-denied environments.
[00:22:29] Overcoming regulatory hurdles: decentralizing risk acceptance to speed deployment.
[00:23:41] Incremental path toward advanced drone lethality, starting with safe, compliant designs like the “Audible” modular payload.
[00:29:57] Tactical use cases for drones in defensive positions, from marking targets to calling in precision fires.
[00:32:37] The SECDEF memorandum’s emphasis on long-term vision, strategic investment, and continuous adaptation.
[00:34:28] Encouraging industry innovation and competition to avoid stagnation.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Brabs” Brabner has served over 25 years in the U.S. Army, with multiple combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. His career spans frontline command, defense acquisitions, and leadership in unmanned aerial systems development. As Branch Chief in Requirements at Fort Moore, Brabner has been at the forefront of shaping the Army’s future drone capabilities, advocating for rapid adaptation, organic lethality at the tactical level, and streamlined acquisition processes. His work on the “Audible” program and purpose-built attritable systems reflects a deep commitment to empowering soldiers with innovative, survivable, and effective battlefield tools.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brabner-17b124253/ 

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aerospace professor and Air Force veteran Robert Lunnie, live from VertiCon. Together, they dive into the challenges and breakthroughs of designing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, focusing on subscale prototyping, flight testing, and real-time transition from vertical to horizontal flight.

Lunnie walks us through his collaborative work with XTI Aerospace, explains the development process behind experimental models like the TriFan, and shares how the University of North Dakota (UND) has become a powerhouse in drone R&D and autonomous flight systems. This episode is a deep technical dive into the future of flight and the dynamic ecosystem driving aerospace innovation.

Robert Lunnie is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and current professor of aerospace at the University of North Dakota, one of the world’s premier flight schools. With a background in nuclear systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Lunnie leads advanced research in drone prototyping, flight dynamics, and human-machine interface development. He collaborates with industry leaders like XTI Aerospace and fosters innovation through UND’s cutting-edge drone research centers, including the Hive and the Gorman Test Center.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-lunnie-465862a1/ 

Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University is a globally recognized leader in aviation and aerospace education. With campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona, as well as a robust online learning network, the university offers specialized programs in engineering, aviation, aerospace, business, cybersecurity, and more. Known for its cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and strong emphasis on hands-on learning, Embry‑Riddle prepares students for careers in some of the world’s most dynamic and high-tech industries. Its graduates are highly sought after by major aerospace companies, airlines, and government agencies worldwide.

“Lift off the wing is a wonderful, beautiful thing.”
– Robert Lunnie

“Trying to get a model to transition from vertical to horizontal safely, reliably, and repeatedly is a lot of work.”
– Robert Lunnie

“We’re not super concerned about longevity. We’re learning about that vertical to horizontal transition.”
– Robert Lunnie

“Once you start learning what we have up there [at UND], it’s a no-brainer to come up and do your development and testing.”
– Robert Lunnie

In this compelling episode of Hangar X Studios, host and former fighter pilot John Ramstead sits down with Doug McDonald, founder of isight Drones, for a deep dive into how drones are reshaping commercial industries. From wind blade inspections to agriculture and life-saving medical delivery, Doug shares firsthand insights on real-world drone applications, the challenges of drone logistics, and the evolving regulatory and manufacturing landscape. Recorded live at The Hive in Grand Forks, North Dakota, this conversation spotlights the practical side of drone deployment and the future of advanced air mobility.

[00:00:00] Doug explains how drones replace dangerous manual inspections on wind turbines
[00:01:52] Overview of isight Drones and its 30+ pilot national operation
[00:03:09] The reality of drone logistics: equipment, redundancy, and deployment
[00:04:18] Using LiDAR and optical sensors to inspect wind blades
[00:04:45] Clients don’t want data, they want insights — like “delamination at 34 meters”
[00:05:28] Precision agriculture: stand counts, weed detection, and smart spraying
[00:07:06] Rock mapping for farming: a costly problem solved efficiently
[00:08:49] Drone delivery for rural healthcare and VA patients
[00:10:39] Hybrid aircraft: 7-hour range, 70mph, 400–500 miles per flight
[00:11:31] Supply chain reality: DJI dominance vs. American drone complexity
[00:13:56] Battery supply issues and emerging U.S. manufacturers like Badlands Batteries
[00:14:48] Building the next DJI in North Dakota? Opportunities for drone entrepreneurs

Doug McDonald is the founder of isight Drones, a drone service provider specializing in inspections of critical energy infrastructure across 47 states and 7 countries. With a background rooted in the rugged landscape of North Dakota, Doug brings practical, grounded leadership to the drone industry. isight Drones serves sectors including wind energy, solar, agriculture, and medical logistics, and is recognized for its deep expertise in deploying scalable drone solutions. Doug’s approach blends advanced sensor technology, robust field operations, and a clear-eyed view of drone regulation and manufacturing.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-mcdonald-1139007/ 

isight Drones is a leading drone service provider specializing in inspections and data collection for critical infrastructure across the energy, agriculture, and construction sectors. Operating in 47 states and 7 countries, the company deploys a fleet of advanced drones equipped with LiDAR, thermal, and optical sensors to deliver actionable insights for clients. With a team of over 30 skilled pilots, isight Drones supports everything from wind blade and solar panel inspections to precision agriculture, rock mapping, and medical supply delivery. Their mission is to replace dangerous, time-consuming, and costly manual processes with safe, efficient aerial solutions.

“Historically, it was always dirty, dull, and dangerous. That's what drones are for.”
– Doug McDonald

“We’re really a logistics company that happens to fly drones.”
– Doug McDonald

“They don’t want a mountain of data. They want to know what the problem is.”
– Doug McDonald

“If one goes down and you've only got one, you're done for two or three weeks.”
– Doug McDonald

“There’s a huge opportunity right now because DJI could be replaced by an American company.”
– John Ramstead

In this exciting episode recorded live at Verticon, host John Ramstead sits down with Kim Hutchings, co-founder of Volo Mission, the only U.S.-based helicopter training program dedicated exclusively to long line external load operations. Kim shares how a need for formalized training inspired her and her husband—a veteran external load pilot—to launch Volo Mission. They delve into the complexities of long line flying, the skillset it demands, how Volo’s curriculum is transforming pilot readiness, and their latest initiatives to bring more women into the rotorcraft industry. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a commercial pilot, or someone fascinated by the evolving vertical economy, this episode delivers high-impact insights into one of aviation’s most specialized disciplines.

[00:00:03] Kim describes how her husband entered the world of external load flying without any formal training
[00:00:29] Host John Ramstead introduces the episode and sets the stage from Verticon
[00:02:07] Kim shares the founding of Volo Mission and its unique long line training
[00:03:21] The challenge of flight dynamics and learning to “fly the line”
[00:04:15] Techniques to control swinging loads in windy conditions
[00:04:44] What’s new in 2025: adding complex training scenarios and live fire Bambi bucket exercises
[00:05:20] Types of students: aspiring pilots and operators sending new hires
[00:05:27] Clarifying there's no formal certification—just essential skill development
[00:05:49] Introduction to “Ladies of the Long Line” and scholarships for women via the Whirly Girls
[00:06:42] Volo’s work as a distributor for the Robinson R66 Utility helicopter
[00:07:22] Kim's advice to pilots considering long line work: it will make you a better pilot, regardless of your path

Kim Hutchings is the co-founder of Volo Mission, the premier long line external load training company based in the U.S. Together with her husband—a seasoned Chinook pilot with over three decades of experience in logging and external load ops—Kim built a training curriculum grounded in safety, technique, and realism. Volo Mission now supports pilots and operators worldwide, with a strong emphasis on skill-building rather than certification. Kim is also the driving force behind initiatives to bring more women into rotorcraft aviation, such as the Ladies of the Long Line program in partnership with the Whirly Girls, an international organization of female helicopter pilots.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-hutchings-1bbbb92a/

Volo Mission is a specialized helicopter training company dedicated exclusively to external load and long line operations. Founded by veteran pilot couple Kim Hutchings and her husband, Volo Mission was created to fill a critical gap in the industry by offering formal, hands-on training for one of aviation’s most complex and high-risk skills. With over a decade of experience, the program immerses pilots in real-world scenarios using a variety of loads and dynamic conditions to build precision, safety, and confidence. From aspiring commercial pilots to seasoned operators, Volo Mission equips aviators with the techniques and mindset needed for excellence in vertical lift operations.

"So you have to learn how to fly that line and control that line and load, because all different loads fly differently." – Kim Hutchings

"Sometimes we have pilots that just want to build their skill set. No matter what, this makes you a better pilot." – Kim Hutchings

"We give a scholarship to the Whirly Girls… it's our way to expose more women to what this industry is about." – Kim Hutchings

"We train with the Robinson R44 and now exclusively distribute the R66 Utility. That’s a big step for us in 2025." – Kim Hutchings