The Unmanned Podcast

Welcome to The Unmanned Podcast

Your Front-Row Seat to the Future of Unmanned Aviation

Why We Created This Podcast

At USI, we believe the future of aviation lies in unmanned systems—and it’s happening faster than most people realize. The Unmanned Podcast was born to bridge the gap between innovation and understanding. Whether you're a curious observer, seasoned remote pilot, or industry stakeholder, this podcast delivers the knowledge, insights, and stories shaping the unmanned world.

As the global leader in UAS workforce training, USI created this platform to elevate the conversation around safety, education, and the people building the next generation of remote aviation professionals. We’re sharing the voices and perspectives that matter—from the classroom to the control station.

Aviation Safety Leaders

UAS Professionals and Remote Pilots
Public Safety Teams
Risk Managers Exploring UAS Best Practices
Government Agencies Seeking Scalable, Compliant Drone Programs
Those Navigating Regulatory Changes or New Markets

Educators, Tech Enthusiasts & Industry Newcomers

High School and College Administrators and Educators
Students Exploring Career Options
Career Advisors Engaged in Workforce Development
Those Interested in Technical Training or Professional Development
Anyone Eager to Learn What's Next in Uncrewed Systems

Episode Schedule & Format

Season 1

Includes 12 Compelling Episodes Covering:

- Workforce Trends & Career Pathways — How aspiring pilots and career-changers are building meaningful futures in UAS.

- Commercial Use Cases That Matter — From aerial advertising to search-and-rescue, precision ag, construction, and more. Learn how the pros are executing in the field.

- Education & Policy Impact — What’s shaping curriculum, funding, credentialing, and access in schools and beyond.

- Behind-the-Scenes Guest Stories — Hear directly from expert leaders at organizations like Sustainable Skylines, ASTM, DroneResponders, Cargill, and AECOM.

- High-Value Technical Breakdowns — Topics like photogrammetry vs. LiDAR, going beyond Part 107, BVLOS, and site safety innovations.

- And much more!

New episodes drop every Wednesday. Subscribe and stay current with the fast-evolving world of uncrewed flight.

Meet Our Host:

Matt Hernandez is the Vice President of Enterprise Partnerships at USI and proud host of The Unmanned Podcast.

An accomplished aviation and safety management leader, Matt is a former Blackhawk pilot with 25+ years of experience in the aviation industry. He has held key roles at Zipline International and Amazon Prime Air, and prior to that he served in the U.S. Army with roles such as Battalion Safety Officer and Air Mission Commander.

Throughout this first season, Matt shares his extensive experience in aviation safety to lead important, interesting conversations with industry leaders from well-known organizations who are actively pushing the boundaries of UAS technology, application, and more.