Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by Jordan Monaco
Pendleton, OR – March 11, 2025 – Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) invites students, aviation enthusiasts, and community members to an exciting Eastern Oregon Forum panel discussion on Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) on Tuesday, March 11, at noon in the BMCC Library, Pioneer Hall. This free event will bring together industry leaders to explore the rapidly evolving world of drone technology and its impact on our region.
Featuring top UAS experts, this discussion will provide an inside look at cutting-edge drone applications, career opportunities, and the role of Eastern Oregon as a hub for unmanned aviation innovation.
Panelists include:
- Eric Smidt – Range Operations Specialist at the Pendleton Unmanned Range, with over 60,000 operations supported in the past four years.
- Nathan Whitley – UAS Training Instructor with extensive experience in fixed-wing and multirotor aircraft operations.
- Joseph Wyno – Executive Director of the Oregon UAS Accelerator, a leader in advancing unmanned aircraft systems and robotics.
Whether you’re a student considering BMCC’s UAS program, an aspiring professional looking for career insights, or simply curious about the expanding role of drones in industries like agriculture, public safety, and technology, this panel is for you.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with experts, ask questions, and explore the future of aviation right here in Eastern Oregon!