The Utah Aeronautics Division is pleased to announce that we have partnered with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and Axiom Aviation to offer premier training for pilots seeking to get back in the air.

AOPA’s Rusty Pilots training will be available on the first day of the conference for all interested attendees. This is a highly sought-after, 3.5-hour training. The training is free to all AOPA members, but advanced registration is required. Non-AOPA members can attend the seminar for $89. Registration can be found HERE.

Please note that registration for the AOPA Rusty Pilots training is separate from registration for the Utah Aeronautics Conference. Individuals who want to attend both the training and the conference MUST sign up for both.

Prepare to witness a groundbreaking mobile vertiport demonstration and learn about the exciting advancements coming soon to our state. Engage with industry experts and explore unique displays. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon ride with Zac Bramble, son of Curt Bramble, and experience the conference center from a whole new perspective.

Please prepare to arrive early as dinner and welcoming remarks will commence promptly at 6 p.m.

Engineer Training Part 1: Airport Engineering 101

• Speaker: Dane Hurst, Woolpert
• Details: Airport engineering refers to the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the physical infrastructure (pavement, paint, lights, etc.) that constitutes an airfield. This training is designed as an introduction to the design standards and practices that literally shape an airfield. It is directed towards airport sponsors, pilots, non-airport engineers, or anyone else with an interest in better understanding the thought processes of an airport design engineer. Topics will include design standards and their basis, geometric design of airfields (horizontal shape of pavements, surface grades, and safety areas), and specialty designs (pavement sections, lighting, drainage, etc.). The training will conclude with an interactive case study to see how many technical and non-technical forces can influence the design and progression of airfield construction projects.

Airport Manager Training Part 1: Airport Management 101

• Speaker: Ryan Leick, UVU
• Details: This training is tailored to equip airport managers, board members, mayors, city managers, and other elected officials with the knowledge and tools needed to efficiently oversee airport operations, foster growth, and ensure a positive impact on the community.

Pilot Training Part 1: Energy Management and Best Glide Speed

• Speaker: Rex Shoell
• Details: TBD

The Dirty Dozen Maintenance Human Factors

• Speaker: Richard Jeffs
• Details: Due to a large number of maintenance-related aviation accidents and incidents that occurred in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Transport Canada identified twelve human factors that degrade people’s ability to perform effectively and safely, which could lead to maintenance errors. These twelve factors, known as the “dirty dozen,” were eventually adopted by the aviation industry as a straight forward means to discuss human error in maintenance. It is important to know the dirty dozen, how to recognize their symptoms, and most importantly, know how to avoid or contain errors produced by the dirty dozen. Understanding the interaction between organizational, work group, and individual factors that may lead to errors and accidents, AMTs can learn to prevent or manage them proactively in the future.

Advanced Air Mobility Infrastructure Study

• Speakers: Michael Dyment, NEXA, and David Sacharny, Blyncys
• Details: TBD

Engineer Training Part 2: Human-Centered Design for Regular People

• Speaker: Dane Hurst, Woolpert
• Details: All corners of the aviation industry are filled with exciting, complex, and unique challenges and opportunities. While most people do not think of themselves as “designers”, principles of design can help solve the most complicated problems any professional encounters. Design is the intersection of art and science. It is the creative practice of finding the best solutions when a formula alone will not suffice. The very best products you buy, experiences you immerse yourself in, and websites you browse have all been through a rigorous design process by trained professionals (stereotypically wearing black turtlenecks). This training will explore how to think like a traditional design professional to solve non-traditional design problems. Those design “problems” could be relationships to strengthen, conflicts to resolve, information to communicate, or workflows to optimize, let alone tangible products to share with consumers. With few exceptions, the most complicated problems we face are inherently centered around people. Principles of human-centered design keep people – clients, colleagues, the public, or even yourself – as the focus of the solution. Human-centered design is the gold standard for creative problem solving, and this training will empower you to use those principles in highly practical ways. No turtleneck required.

Airport Manager Training Part 2: Airport Management 101

• Speaker: Ryan Leick, UVU
• Details: This training is tailored to equip airport managers, board members, mayors, city managers, and other elected officials with the knowledge and tools needed to efficiently oversee airport operations, foster growth, and ensure a positive impact on the community.

Pilot Training Part 2: Normalization of Deviation and Controlled Flight Into Terrain

• Speaker: Jim Lipscomb
• Details: TBD

Owner Assisted Annual Inspection

• Speaker: Duncan Aviation
• Details: TBD

Drones: Best Practices + Regulations

• Speakers: Josh Natress, Robotic Skies
• Details: Join us as we navigate through the intricacies of unmanned aircraft maintenance, we’ll shed light on associated elements, and discuss the transformative effects of regulatory changes and the integration of Advanced Air Mobility maintenance into the unmanned aviation landscape. This presentation is a must-attend for industry professionals, regulators, and enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive perspective on the present and future of unmanned aviation maintenance.

The Hill Air Force Base mobile tour is an experience you won’t want to miss! The base’s history reflects the heritage of the United States Air Force and the Air Force Materiel Command. It is the second largest base by population and geographical size and is home to many operational and support missions. The tour may cover the following areas of the base:

• Ogden Air Logistics Complex

• 649th Munitions Squadron

• 309th Software Engineering Group

• 775th Explosive Ordnance Disposal

• F-35 Static Display

Tours will be available May 21 and 22, beginning at 2:30 p.m. Tour attendees should meet in the lobby of the Davis Conference Center at 2:15 p.m. on the day of preference. A shuttle bus will be provided for transportation to and from Hill AFB. Each tour is limited to 40 people and costs $25 per ticket, which can be added to your registration ticket before checking out. 

Mechanic Training Part 1: Part 43 Regulations Course

• Speaker: Steve Snyder, Duncan Aviation
• Details: TBD

Drone Training Part 1

• Speaker: Chris Grazioso, Dart Drones
• Details: The DARTdrones Instructor, who is also the MassDOT Director of UAS Operations, will delve into various applications of drones for dozens of purposes including mapping and modeling and various inspections. We will focus on drone photogrammetry including instances when DOTs utilize photogrammetry, the selection of suitable sensors including LiDAR, the incorporation of RTK/PPK technology, the desired final data products, strategic planning of flight paths, and the optimal equipment for diverse use cases. Additionally, we will address the procedures involved in obtaining airspace authorizations, covering topics such as LAANC authorizations, Drone Zone authorization, and FAA waivers. Maintenance considerations for drones will also be a key topic of discussion. Finally, we’ll conclude by examining the current landscape of drones and provide insights into upcoming developments in the field. After the presentation, the DARTdrones Instructor will lead participants outdoors for hands-on drone flying, technology exploration, and an opportunity to ask questions.

Air Traffic Control Panel

• Speaker: Randall Parkman, TRACON
• Details: This session will provide attendees with an overview of air traffic control systems and how they impact the aviation industry. Speakers will discuss current and future trends in air traffic control, as well as the importance of safety and efficiency in this critical aspect of aviation.

Expand Your Aviation Comfort Zone

• Speaker: Brad Schuster, AOPA
• Details: TBD

Identifying & Mitigating Risk in UAV Operation

• Speaker: Douglas Spotted Eagle, Sundance Media Group
• Details: Understanding risk is the first step in reducing accidents while operating a UAV. Mitigation of risk carries across all aspects of any UAV project, including operational hazards, safety, efficiency, and overall insurance cost reduction. Protecting your investment in equipment and personnel along with protecting your client is key to success. Using internationally recognized standards and recommended practices from International Civil Aviation Organization, International Standards Organization, Occupational Health & Safety, and global UAV best practices, this session will detail mechanisms, practices, and tools to help identify and minimize risk points in any sort of UAV operation whether corporate, enterprise, infrastructure, or agency.
  
  This session details how to identify and mitigate risk in UAV operation and is taught by experienced UAV instructors trained by SGS HART Aviation in risk mitigation, a leading provider of aviation auditing services around the globe, providing confidence in the safe and efficient delivery of aviation operations.

Mechanic Training Part 2: Hands-on Maintenance Safety

• Speaker: Steve Snyder, Duncan Aviation
• Details: TBD

Drone Training Part 2

• Speaker: Chris Grazioso, Dart Drones
• Details: TBD

Skyward Visions: AAM Applications, Vertiport Planning and Urban Considerations

• Speakers: Steven Derengowski, InterVISTAS Consulting, Brent Chamberlain, USU, and Chay Mosqueda, WFRC
• Details: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is an emerging segment of the aviation industry that will change how people travel in the future. Integrating AAM operations seamlessly into the existing airport landscape is a complex task. With several AAM manufacturers like Joby, Volocopter and Beta Technologies aiming for FAA certification in the next year or so, airports need an established plan to accommodate this new type of operation. The first step in accommodating this emerging technology is understanding its application as it has tremendous influence on where facilities need to be sited. This session aims to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the application of AAM, tailored for all airport sizes and classifications. Attendees will gain an understanding of the initial planning steps that should be considered for incorporating AAM at their airports, the potential economic impacts of this emerging technology, how AAM can complement other modes of transportation, and how AAM can provide a sustainable and efficient air transportation system. Additionally, speakers will identify possible challenges and strategies for incorporating AAM for all airport sizes.

Backcountry Flying

• Speaker: Roy Evans II, Utah Back Country Pilots Association
• Details: This is an introductory presentation on the exciting, challenging, and rewarding flight the backcountry in Utah offers.

Building Your Career From the Ground UP

• Speaker: Adora Taylor, Northrop Grumman
• Details: This presentation is for the students and young professionals still wondering if aerospace is the path for them. You’ll hear an account from the first black woman to pioneer the B-21 bomber and how she jumped into the industry at 18 years old. Get a headstart on positioning yourself for a successful career with helpful interviewing tips, negotiation dos and don’ts, and networking advice you can implement the moment you leave the room.

Engineer Training Part 3: Airport Drainage Engineering

• Speaker: Dane Hurst, Woolpert
• Details: Proper stormwater drainage at airports has critical implications for safety of airport users, longevity of infrastructure, environment sustainability, and regulatory compliance. This training will examine several topics relevant to drainage engineering at airports. It will review basics of hydrology, hydraulics, underdrains, water quality, AIP funding, structural considerations, and standards & regulations. The content will be presented in an open-ended, audience-driven format to ensure the most relevant topics are discussed.

Airport Manager Training Part 3: Airport Planning and Community Engagement

• Speaker: Ryan Leick, UVU
• Details: This training is tailored to equip airport managers, board members, mayors, city managers, and other elected officials with the knowledge and tools needed to efficiently oversee airport operations, foster growth, and ensure a positive impact on the community.

Pilot Training Part 3: Use of Weather Information

• Speaker: Baron Wesemann, USU
• Details: TBD

Engine Care and Maintenance

• Speaker: Trevor Dietrich, Lycoming Engines
• Details: This presentation will focus on best practices for operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Lycoming piston engines. Subjects will include Lycoming engine history, new products, ignition systems, lubrication systems, maintenance intervals, operating recommendations/ limitations, approved fuels, technical publications, followed by a Q&A session.

Hill Air Force Base Update

• Speaker: Major Jefferson Page, Hill AFB
• Details: TBD

Engineer Training Part 4

• Speaker: David Hartmann, Armstrong Consultants
• Details: Airport design, planning, and operational specialists often work with and for municipal staff not well-versed in airport needs, either day-to-day or long-term. This session will help bridge that gap.

Airport Manager Training Part 4: Airport Planning and Community Engagement

• Speaker: Ryan Leick, UVU
• Details: This training is tailored to equip airport managers, board members, mayors, city managers, and other elected officials with the knowledge and tools needed to efficiently oversee airport operations, foster growth, and ensure a positive impact on the community.

Pilot Training Part 4: Helping you make sure you really are fit to fly

• Speaker: Baron Wesemann, USU
• Details: TBD

Interior Alterations: A Personal Touch for Beautifying Private Aircrafts

• Speaker: Brandon Crosby, Duncan Aviation
• Details: There are many ways to customize the interior of an Aircraft “ACFT”. Whether it be installing a new entry and LAV floor with LVT or LVP materials, or even picking a custom dyed leather. There are many ways to make an ACFT have the customers personal touch.

UDOT Updates and Grants

• Speakers: Utah Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Division
• Details: TBD

The Hill Air Force Base mobile tour is an experience you won’t want to miss! The base’s history reflects the heritage of the United States Air Force and the Air Force Materiel Command. It is the second largest base by population and geographical size and is home to many operational and support missions. The tour may cover the following areas of the base:

• Ogden Air Logistics Complex

• 649th Munitions Squadron

• 309th Software Engineering Group

• 775th Explosive Ordnance Disposal

• F-35 Static Display

Tours will be available May 21 and 22, beginning at 2:30 p.m. Tour attendees should meet in the lobby of the Davis Conference Center at 2:15 p.m. on the day of preference. A shuttle bus will be provided for transportation to and from Hill AFB. Each tour is limited to 40 people and costs $25 per ticket, which can be added to your registration ticket before checking out. 

Mechanic Training Part 3: Hands-on Maintenance Safety

• Speaker: Steve Snyder, Duncan Aviation
• Details: TBD

Drone Training Part 3: Opening a Whole New World

• Speaker: Utah State University Aggie Drone Academy
• Details: Aggie Drone Academy will discuss drones as part of the world of aviation itself and discuss the importance of proper education when it comes to drones, proper training available, ideas on incorporating drones, and how drones lead the way in the path to the world of aviation.

Elevating Utah

• Speaker: Stephen Cook, Volante Aircraft, and Michael Duke, DBT Aero, Inc.
• Details: Volante is Utah’s first and only Street Legal ATV / Experimental Aircraft, or AirCAR. Tail 777VA. Designed and built by the late Marine Colonel KP Rice. We invite you to come explore Utah’s future as the mass production location for 4,000 units/yr. x $250k each = $1 Billion annual revenue (Unicorn) by 2031. We invite you to help pave the way for Utah’s aerospace entrepreneurs to take flight blazing new trails on both the roads and in the sky, using combined air and ground vehicles.

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise

• Speaker: Kimberly A. Silvester, J-U-B Engineers, Jonathan Kline, FAA Civil Rights, and Raymond Christy, SLCIA
• Details: TBD

Normalization of Deviance: Why Human Factors Could Be the Final Frontier for Accident Reduction

• Speaker: Brad Schuster, AOPA
• Details: TBD

Mechanic Training Part 4: Hands-on Maintenance Safety

• Speaker: Steve Snyder, Duncan Aviation
• Details: TBD

Drone Training Part 4: Opening a Whole New World

• Speaker: Utah State University Aggie Drone Academy
• Details: Aggie Drone Academy will discuss drones as part of the world of aviation itself and discuss the importance of proper education when it comes to drones, proper training available, ideas on incorporating drones, and how drones lead the way in the path to the world of aviation.

Put the Brakes on Low Friction Runway Worries

• Speaker: John Hunter, Skidabrader Group
• Details: The subject revolves around runway safety related to low runway friction (medium to poor braking). The presentation details the pavement texturing process that recovers low friction on both rigid (cement) and flexible (asphalt) pavements. No airport, large or small, wants to deal with the safety concerns of low or low trending friction. We’ll provide the basics about how runways (critical pavements) can lose friction along with a brief micro and macro texture explanation and provide the highlights of the inexpensive application process to recover the friction qualities back to the design standards. We’ll discuss the FAA’s awareness of a friction recovery treatment and specific Advisory Circulars that mention the texturing process, pavement candidates for a treatment, budget pricing, successful case study projects, and leave time for attendee questions and discussion. The presentation highlights the texturing process from an industry educational perspective and does not promote specific companies. Please let me know if I can provide further information.

Flight Freedom

• Speakers: Jared Esselman, QwikFlights, Larry Weitzman, Aviation Consumer, and Cam Peterson, Pilot
• Details: Every pilot dreams of owning an aircraft. But… it’s expensive! Airplanes are expensive, insurance is expensive, hangars are expensive IF you can get them. And flight schools don’t rent their aircraft like they used to. What are pilots to do? A flying club can be a worthwhile and valuable alternative to aircraft ownership and even aircraft rental. Could your flight plan include membership in one of Utah’s flying clubs? Let’s explore the possibilities.

Drones Proliferation in Modern Warfare

• Speaker: Adam Robertson, Fortem Technologies
• Details: Drones are now an indispensable tool in modern warfare. From small hand held drones to large drones that can cross oceans, Uncrewed Aerial Systems or UAS, are used for more than just Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). UAS are now organic assets for individuals and small teams, and critical to staying alive and essential tools for targeting enemy tanks, vehicles, planes, personnel, and trenches. Learn about the drones being used by Russia, Hamas, Houthis, and N. Korea and what is being done to stop these threats.