Nevada and Alberta Sign MOU to Promote Unmanned Sector 

Photo courtesy Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development.

 

By Holly Gonzalez



On 29 July, Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development Director Steve Hill and Alberta Minister of International and Intergovernmental Relations Cal Dallas signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding to encourage opportunities in the unmanned vehicle system sector. 



 “Aerospace remains one of Nevada’s most developed economic development industries. Within this sector, unmanned vehicle systems offer the most potential for future development,” says Hill. “As a state, we have been focused on increasing Nevada’s UVS global presence. While we are hopeful that our application to the FAA for UVS test site designation will be successful, we are also extremely busy with other UVS initiatives. Pending this designation, our office has been focused on establishing a workforce to support the UVS industry with NSHE [Nevada System of Higher Education] education opportunities and centered on connecting the public and private industries in this field. The signing of this MOU with Alberta will take our state’s UVS presence to the next level with international recognition. The opportunities for collaboration presented by this MOU are substantial, and I am excited about what this partnership means for the future of our state and the future of Nevada’s aerospace industry.”



“Much like Nevada, Alberta is emerging as a leader in the development of advanced technologies in the unmanned vehicle systems sector,” says Dallas. “With the signing of our agreement, I look forward to working together in leveraging each other’s strengths while accelerating the development of these advanced technologies.” 



The MOU aims to reach industry and government to trade and develop UAS knowledge. They will also complete research, technology development and commercialization projects. Science, engineering and technology knowledge from educational institutions will be encouraged between jurisdictions in Nevada and Alberta. They will promote cooperation in research activities and workshops, as well as exchange scientific personnel, publications and overall research information.