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News from around the Northwest about uncrewed systems and robotics
from the Cascade Chapter of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International
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| | FEBRUARY 2026 NEWS & EVENTS | |
Experience Pendleton, Oregon: A Hub for UAS Innovation
Spend a day and a half in Pendleton, Oregon, the home of one of the nation’s busiest FAA-approved Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Ranges. This event offers a unique opportunity to connect with leaders, innovators, and influencers in the uncrewed and robotic industries.
Connect with Industry Leaders
Engage with a diverse group of participants, including end-users, entrepreneurs, startups, service companies, government officials, and academics. Following the tradition set last spring, we are pleased to announce our ongoing collaboration with the Pendleton UAS Range and the Oregon UAS Accelerator. The Accelerator involvement adds an exciting dimension to the event as finalists from their program present their breakthrough innovations.
Tech Showcase and Facility Expansion
On the 23rd, attend the Tech Showcase at the Pendleton UAS Range. Live UAS/AAM demos, displays, and networking highlighting real‐world operations, emerging platforms, and mission‐focused UAS applications, culminating with lunch and a ribbon‐cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the 18,000 sq.ft. Flex III Hangar. Witness firsthand how Pendleton is expanding its capacity to meet the future demands of UAS testing and development.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS
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✈️ The Future of Flight & Autonomy in Washington
Networking Event Recap
Our first 2026 Networking Event was held on Tuesday, January 27 at the Washington State Department of Transportation.
Attendees gained valuable insights into how Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is being incorporated into Washington’s multimodal transportation network. The event highlighted practical, on-the-ground efforts guided by the WSDOT AAM Aircraft Plan. Participants also learned about the integration of autonomous and uncrewed technologies in today’s transportation systems.
We extend a BIG THANK YOU to Ann Richart, Dr. David Ison, and Eddy Hensley for generously sharing their expertise and knowledge regarding AAM and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) initiatives.
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Thank You to our 2026 Annual Sponsors
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Welcome our new PLATINUM & BRONZE Sponsors!
PLATINUM: NW Blue is a Portland, Oregon based manufacture and distributor for leading UAS/UxS components and a trusted source for Blue UAS and NDAA-compliant components. Backed by a long-standing history of procurement and responsive support, they serve defense, commercial, and academic organizations.
BRONZE: TMF, a Pacific Northwest company, is an agile precision manufacturing company that specializes in CNC machining for defense, space, and aviation. They provide high quality custom machined parts, components, and assemblies at quantities 1 to thousands, prototype to full production. With a talented and dedicated team and high-capacity equipment, they provide value added services through their network of vetted suppliers. TMF is AS9100 certified and ITAR registered.
| | LOCAL AND NATIONAL NEWS AND EVENTS | | |
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) began rulemaking related to drone takeoff and landing in Oregon State Parks and along the ocean shore in early 2022.
The rulemaking was paused to allow additional time to consider public feedback and strengthen the framework guiding future rules.
In 2025, OPRD resumed the rulemaking process and convened a new Rule Advisory Committee (RAC).
OPRD has now filed the proposed drone rules with the Oregon Secretary of State and accepted public comment. Public input is being reviewed and considered as staff refine the proposed rules before presenting them to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration of adoption. The goal is to have a final set of regulations ready for implementation in 2026.
READ MORE HERE
AUVSI Cascade Chapter provided comments to their draft which is Opposing the Proposed OAR Chapter 736 Rules Governing UAS Operations.
READ CASCADE CHAPTER COMMENTS
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HAPPY 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
to OVERWATCH IMAGING!
Overwatch Imaging: A Decade of Innovation
On February 18, several business colleagues, partners, customers and friends gathered to celebrate Overwatch Imaging’s milestone of ten years in business.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Co-founder and CEO Greg Davis, along with the entire Overwatch Imaging team, for the significant contributions they have made in the field of multispectral smart sensors and AI-enabled software solutions.
Overwatch Imaging’s technologies have been instrumental in a wide variety of urgent missions around the globe. Their solutions have supported efforts such as fire, flood, and oil spill mapping, as well as counter narcotics, tactical intelligence, and maritime search and rescue operations.
We also thank Overwatch Imaging for their longstanding commitment as an Annual Silver Sponsor, providing valuable support to our Cascade Chapter.
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Calling all tech innovators, leaders, and community champions — nominations are officially open for the 2026 Oregon Tech Awards.
For over four decades, the Oregon Technology Awards have been the premier celebration of innovation, leadership, and impact in our region's tech ecosystem. From rising startups to bold pivots by established companies, these awards shine a spotlight on the people and organizations driving Oregon's tech future forward.
Have you witnessed breakthrough tech? Know a leader transforming our industry? An organization changing the game? Now's the moment to put them forward.
Who can be nominated? Innovative companies and startups, visionary leaders, and tech champions across Oregon's technology landscape are all eligible.
LINK TO NOMINATE
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SUPPLY CHAIN CONFERENCE
WHEN: Thursday, February 26, 2026
TIME: 8:30AM - 2:30PM (PT)
LOCATION: Hilton Garden Inn Clackamas Portland
12566 SE 93rd Ave, Clackamas, OR 97015
Through a combination of presentations and roundtable discussions, this Supply Chain Opportunities Conference is designed to help companies develop new knowledge, new contacts, and most importantly, new business. This is a unique opportunity for manufacturers to hear from primes/OEM about their supply chain needs. In addition, several roundtable discussions with other peer manufacturers create a unique opportunity for making connections and increase sourcing within the Pacific Northwest.
COST: Pints & Pros and SCOC: Member - $195 | Non-Member - $295
SCOC ONLY: Member - $145 | Non-Member - $225
Pints & Pros ONLY: Member - $80 | Non-Member - $95
REGISTER HERE
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Oregon Military Department–Oregon UAS Accelerator Partnership on Uncrewed Systems Innovation
The Oregon UAS Accelerator and the Oregon Military Department have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance uncrewed systems innovation, training, and workforce development across Oregon. The agreement connects OMD’s Drone Dominance strategy and training installations with our uncrewed systems startup ecosystem, real-world UAS/C-UAS testing, and statewide talent pipelines.
Key elements of the partnership include:
- Real-world UAS and C-UAS testing and integration at select OMD installations
- Expanded workforce development through Oregon universities, community colleges, and GI Bill pathways
- Support for UAS competitions, including the ORNG Drone Storm Team and national challenges
- Acceleration of dual-use technologies that serve both defense and commercial markets
READ PRESS RELEASE
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A coalition of Congressional leaders and industry executives gathered on Capitol Hill to launch the Partnership for Robotics Competitiveness (PfRC), an initiative led by the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) to advance federal policy and secure U.S. leadership in robotics and physical AI.
READ ALL ABOUT IT!
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Join the Washington State Delegation to Aircraft Interiors Expo 2026
Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) is the premier global event for cabin interiors, in-flight entertainment, and the passenger experience. It’s where the aviation supply chain meets decision-makers from OEMs, Tier1’s and other key leaders who are shaping the future of flight. Washington State is proud to support aerospace companies with the tools they need to succeed on the international stage – from booth space in a high-traffic location to export assistance and on-the-ground guidance. Our experienced Commerce team helps you make the most of the show, so you can focus on building relationships and growing your global business. To learn more or to register please reach out to joanna.boatwright@commerce.wa.gov.
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Pendleton UAS Range (PUR) and engineering firm Sigma Design have expanded their long-standing partnership to enhance on-site engineering services and talent solutions for unmanned systems testing and development. READ PRESS RELEASE
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May 11 | 9:00 am –
May 14 | 5:00 pm.
Location: Huntington Place, Detroit, MI.
Where autonomy meets action. Join the global community advancing uncrewed and robotic systems across air, land, sea, and space — live in the heart of American innovation.
XPONENTIAL 2026 builds on the momentum of 2025. This year’s event expands the experience with new opportunities, deeper dives into AAM, AI, maritime, and defense autonomy, and stronger collaboration between government and industry leaders.
MORE INFORMATION
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Portland Bureau of Transportation- (PBOT) opens public comment on proposed updates to rules for Automated Vehicles (AVs), encroachments, multimodal incentives and driveways.
READ NEWS RELEASE
| | RESOURCES AND INFORMATION | |
- You need to join AUVSI national first and then affiliate with Cascade Chapter
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Log into your profile
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Click on 'Edit Profile'
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Click 'Chapter' on the left navigation and select your chapter from the dropdown list
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Click 'Save' and you’ll see your chapter displayed on the right side of your profile
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AAM Prepared, AUVSI
AUVSI advocacy initiative is supported by Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry leaders and manufacturers to help states and localities prepare for the future of advanced air transportation. Learn more about the campaign’s legislative proposals, research, and supporters at auvsi.org/aam-prepared.
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Setting the Standard for Safe, Skilled, and Accountable Uncrewed Maritime System Operations. As uncrewed maritime systems (UMS) rapidly expand across industries from offshore energy and infrastructure inspection to national security and environmental monitoring, ensuring safe, professional operations has never been more critical.
Learn more
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Trusted UAS Operators
As uncrewed systems become more integrated into commercial, public safety, and government operations, professional certification is essential to ensure safety, consistency, and public trust. AUVSI’s Trusted Operator program was developed in collaboration with industry leaders to align remote pilot training with recognized standards and to support global acceptance of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).
Learn more
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AUVSI Green UAS
EXPEDITED, STREAMLINED VETTING
In partnership with its members and other key industry stakeholders, AUVSI created the Green UAS certification to provide expedited and streamlined vetting of commercial and non-defense drone technologies to support end-users confidence when procuring systems and to bolster the drone and component manufacturing base for secure drone systems.
Green UAS Certification builds upon the Blue UAS program to specifically serve the commercial and non-defense drone community with access to the same level of verification and certification for cybersecurity and NDAA supply chain compliance.
MORE INFORMATION!
| | | | Now included with AUVSI Organizational Membership! AUVSI’s Uncrewed Systems and Robotics Database is the largest comprehensive and searchable database of all uncrewed vehicles and robotic products operating in the air, ground and maritime domains. LEARN MORE! | | |
Save with AUVSI Affinity Programs
Take advantage of AUVSI member affinity programs, which offer you various services and products at special member rates. Whether you are looking for drone insurance, help earning the FAA-required pilot's certificate, savings on shipping, or more, AUVSI has something for you. Participation in these programs can achieve a true return on your membership investment. LEARN MORE!
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Check Out AUVSI's Aville Today!
Embark on a learning journey this month with AUVSI’s exclusive webinars on Aville! Our virtual stage is set for a month of thrilling insights and discoveries. These webinars are tailor-made to ignite your curiosity and elevate your understanding of cutting-edge advancements. Explore the options and join the ones that resonate with you the most! Visit Aville!
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PLEASE REMEMBER TO GIVE CASCADE CHAPTER CREDIT
Chapter members can register for AUVSI National events using the code CHCASCADE and the Chapter receives a 5% Commission on the total cost of the registration.
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Northwest Aerospace News Magazine | | | | |
Current Issue Available Online Now!
For the most current information on Pacific Northwest Aerospace suppliers, subscribe to Northwest Aerospace News Magazine. It is free to receive and valuable to read.
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Your News is Our News!
Please tell us about your upcoming events.
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Are you looking for employment in the Uncrewed Industry?
Employers, do you have jobs to list? Visit the AUVSI Career Center
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Do you have a story to share? Send an email to Lori Brown
and your company could be featured in an upcoming newsletter!
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