The Unmanned Podcast

The Unmanned Podcast
Podcast Description
In "The Unmanned Podcast", powered by USI, we explore the exciting world of unmanned aircraft systems, drone technology, workforce development and the careers of tomorrow! Each episode we join our host, Matt Hernandez, a retired Blackhawk pilot & aviation safety professional, as he interviews expert guests who bring you insights on drone industry best practices, emerging technology, remote pilot & technician training, and a wide range of industry trends. USI is proud to be an ASTM Approved Training Provider, empowering UAS professionals across all drone industry segments and clusters.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers a variety of topics including drone industry best practices, workforce development, emerging technologies, and safety training. Episodes illustrate these themes with real-world examples such as Cargill's drone program enhancing efficiency and safety across agricultural operations, and the role of drones in public safety and community trust. Specific focus areas include regulatory compliance, ROI from drone deployments, and the integration of drones into the national airspace.

In “The Unmanned Podcast”, powered by USI, we explore the exciting world of unmanned aircraft systems, drone technology, workforce development and the careers of tomorrow! Each episode we join our host, Matt Hernandez, a retired Blackhawk pilot & aviation safety professional, as he interviews expert guests who bring you insights on drone industry best practices, emerging technology, remote pilot & technician training, and a wide range of industry trends. USI is proud to be an ASTM Approved Training Provider, empowering UAS professionals across all drone industry segments and clusters.
In Episode Three of The Unmanned Podcast, Matt Hernandez interviews Calvin Rieb, Global ROS Leader at Cargill, to explore how one of the world’s largest agricultural companies uses drones to enhance safety, efficiency, and innovation on a global scale.
Topics Covered:
- How Cargill built its drone program from the ground up
- The role of drones in inspecting grain bins and industrial assets
- Achieving global safety and regulatory compliance
- ROI insights: 2–3x return from drone implementation
- Training with USI and the value of military + university talent
- Ethics, privacy, and the future of counter-UAS and BVLOS rules
- Cargill’s vision for drone expansion in Europe and Asia
💡 Calvin also shares lessons from aviation, leadership, and managing a multinational drone operation—from legal barriers to real-time risk reduction.
Enjoy!

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