AUVSI XCELLENCE Humanitarian Award Finalists Unveiled
Winners to be Revealed at AUVSI XPONENTIAL
Key Takeaways
- Eight finalists for the first AUVSI XCELLENCE Humanitarian Award have been selected.
- The award acknowledges significant contributions made using unmanned systems in humanitarian efforts.
- Five recipients will each receive a portion of a $25,000 donation to support their organizations.
- The winners will be announced on May 3 at the AUVSI XPONENTIAL event in Denver, Colorado.
In an inspiring announcement today, the Association for Unmanned Vehicles Systems International (AUVSI) revealed the eight finalists for the inaugural AUVSI XCELLENCE Humanitarian Award, sponsored by DJI, a global leader in civilian drone technology and aerial imaging.
Celebrating Humanitarian Contributions
The AUVSI XCELLENCE Humanitarian Award is designed to honor five individuals or organizations that have profoundly impacted humanitarian or philanthropic initiatives through the use of unmanned systems. As part of this recognition, the award includes a collective $25,000 donation to be distributed among the honored recipients. The finalists have showcased remarkable innovations in utilizing drones for disaster relief, medical aid, and search and rescue missions.
Global Impact of Unmanned Vehicles
Michael Perry, Managing Director of North America at DJI, stated, “UAVs are instrumental in humanitarian operations all over the world—from Chile to Tanzania, from China to Australia. The submissions we’ve received reflect the incredible innovations in how UAVs are utilized for lifesaving purposes.” He also expressed gratitude to the judges who faced the demanding task of selecting the finalists from an array of exceptional entries. Perry conveyed hope that the recognition serves as inspiration for more innovators to harness drone technology for significant contributions to communities and the environment.
Finalists for the Humanitarian Award
The finalists for this prestigious award exemplify excellence in employing drone technology for the betterment of society and the environment:
- Aeryon Labs Inc.: Aeryon SkyRanger UAS provides vital aerial intelligence to first responders in Sint Maarten following Hurricane Irma (Canada).
- AnsuR Technologies: GEO-VISION integrates drones for enhanced situational awareness in disaster management (Sweden).
- ONG DroneSAR Chile: Offers emergency response and humanitarian aid using drones (Chile).
- DroneSAR: UAV Search & Rescue solutions that execute autonomous aerial searches and provide real-time data to augment first response efforts (Ireland).
- Gene Robinson, Wimberley Fire Rescue: A pioneer in UAS deployment for search and rescue from 2005 to 2018 (USA).
- Nepal Flying Lab: Focuses on drone hazard and vulnerability mapping in Nepal (Nepal).
- WeRobotics: Utilizes drones for disease vector control efforts (Switzerland).
- Zipline International: Operates a medical drone delivery system in Rwanda (Rwanda).
Recognition of Innovation in the Industry
Brian Wynne, president and CEO of AUVSI, remarked on the rapid innovation occurring within the unmanned systems sector, highlighting its substantial benefits to the economy and society. He stated, “The XCELLENCE awards provide an opportunity to recognize the individuals and organizations pushing the envelope in our industry.”
About AUVSI
The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to advancing unmanned systems and robotics. Representing professionals and corporations from over 60 countries, AUVSI aims to foster progress across defense, civil, and commercial markets.
For more details, please visit AUVSI.org, and to learn more about the AUVSI XCELLENCE Awards and XPONENTIAL 2018, visit xponential.org.
