Interdrone Announces Networking Event for Women in the Drone Industry

As is often the case in technology-related fields, men outnumber women in the drone industry. Although figures are sure to have changed, one survey suggests that in the USA in 2016, only 4% of drone pilot licence holders were women.

To empower and encourage women to enter the drone industry, B2B trade show organiser Emerald Expositions have now announced that plans have been made for the fourth annual Women in Drones Luncheon to be held at Interdrone this September.

The luncheon, which was first spearheaded at Interdrone in 2015, has become a fast-growing platform through which women in the commercial drone industry can network.

Highlighting the input of women in the drone industry, the luncheon will be hosted by Suzanne Lemieux of API (American Petroleum Institute), where she is UAS lead and manager.

“This is an incredible time for women to enter into this emerging field, to participate in these new developments, and to pave a pathway for more girls to enter into STEM careers. I look forward to moderating the luncheon panel to help build networking opportunities for more women and girls,” Lemieux says.

She will be joined by Lia Reich, VP Marketing-Communications at PrecisionHawk, and Mariah Scott, President of Skyward, A Verizon Company.

Adding to the mix is a partnership with Women and Drones, an online website bringing women in the drone industry together.

“The event this year is also particularly exciting since we are thrilled to announce a partnership with Women and Drones,” said Katie Flash, Content Director, InterDrone, adding, “Our event strives to highlight all the amazing things women are doing in this space, and this partnership allows us to take that to the next level.”

Sharon Rossmark, CEO and Founder of Women and Drones, has confirmed that there will be a special announcement at the luncheon, revealing their 2018 Women to Watch in UAS list of honorees.

“Women to Watch in UAS recognizes exceptional women in the industry from around the world.  We received hundreds of nominations this year and are in the midst of a rigorous process, reviewing each submission and validating the information. The finalists will be selected by our judges very soon and the honorees will be announced at InterDrone,” Rossmark said.

The Women in Drones Luncheon will be held at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas on Thursday, September 6, from 12:15 pm – 1:30 pm.