Drones and Networking in Lausanne

By Greg Drane, Commercial Director at Sutro Group

Lausanne, Switzerland – a city known for its picturesque views of Lake Geneva and the majestic Alps, became a hub of innovation and collaboration during the Flyability User Conference held from March 6-8, 2024. As the Commercial Director at Sutro Group, I had the privilege of attending this event, and I must say, it was an enlightening experience that left me optimistic about the future of industrial inspections.

The conference brought together a diverse community of professionals from various industries, all united by a common goal: to explore the potential of commercial indoor drones in inspections and surveying. From power generation to maritime, from oil & gas to mining, the attendees represented a wide spectrum of sectors eager to embrace the possibilities offered by drone technology.

One of the standout features of the event was the opportunity to learn from experts in the field. Sessions led by industry leaders provided invaluable insights into the implementation and adoption of drone solutions, particularly Flyability’s Elios system. As we delved into discussions on best practices and future developments, it became evident that drones are not just a trend but a transformative force in the realm of inspections.

However, beyond the informative sessions and technological showcases, what truly made the Flyability User Conference memorable was the networking opportunities it offered. Meeting fellow professionals, technology experts, and skilled drone pilots allowed for the exchange of ideas and experiences that are invaluable in our rapidly evolving industry. Building connections that transcend borders and industries is essential for driving innovation and fostering collaboration, and this conference provided the perfect platform for such interactions.

One key takeaway from the event was the consensus among attendees regarding the potential of drones to replace humans for much of the non-destructive testing (NDT) work in hazardous environments. While some might view this as a daunting prospect, I see it as a tremendous opportunity for progress. Drones equipped with advanced sensors and imaging capabilities can access confined spaces and dangerous locations with ease, minimising risks to human lives while gathering crucial data more efficiently.

Embracing drones for industrial inspections isn’t just about replacing manpower; it’s about enhancing safety, efficiency, and accuracy. By delegating routine tasks to drones, human workers can focus on higher-level decision-making and problem-solving, ultimately leading to better outcomes for businesses and society as a whole.

Furthermore, the adoption of drone technology opens up new avenues for job creation and skill development. As the demand for drone operators and technicians grows, so too does the need for training programs and educational initiatives to equip the workforce with the necessary skills. This presents an opportunity for collaboration between industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and government agencies to cultivate a skilled workforce for the drone industry.

In conclusion, my experience at the Flyability User Conference in Lausanne left me optimistic about the future of industrial inspections and the role of drones in shaping that future. By leveraging the power of technology and fostering meaningful connections within our community, we can unlock new possibilities and propel our industries forward. Let us embrace this transformation with enthusiasm and confidence, knowing that drones have the potential to revolutionise how we work and live for the better.