The Choctaw Nation BEYOND Program: Pioneering Advanced Drone Technology

 

The Choctaw Nation BEYOND program is making waves in advanced drone technology, positioning itself as a key player in the eVTOL (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) era. In the latest episode of SkyShift, host Martin Richardson dives into this innovative program with guest James Grimsley, an Advanced Transportation Technology and Policy Expert.

Richardson speaks with Grimsley about his extensive background in aerospace engineering and his journey from the Air Force to leading the Choctaw Nation’s BEYOND program. They discuss the significant advancements in drone technology and the unique capabilities of the Daisy Ranch facility. Grimsley shares insights into how the program leverages the Choctaw Nation’s sovereignty to create a state-of-the-art aviation research and testing environment.

James Grimsley is the executive director of the Advanced Technology Initiatives Department for the Choctaw Nation’s BEYOND program. He brings over 20 years of experience in aerospace engineering and has played a pivotal role in shaping drone technology and policy.

Article by MarketScale

Recent Episodes

Drayage, the short-haul transport of containers from ports to warehouses, has become a critical link in global logistics. E-commerce growth and shifting supply chain strategies have pushed this step into sharper focus. U.S. containerized imports totaled 28,196,462 TEUs in 2024, a 13 percent increase from the previous year, underscoring the rising demand for port-to-warehouse…

Volatile tariffs, inflationary pressures, and advances in fleet lifecycle management are forcing trucking executives to make strategic choices under uncertainty. The decision to replace or upgrade Class 8 trucks is no longer just about cost-per-month—it’s about lifecycle value, operational safety, compliance readiness, and long-term competitiveness. As the EV credit deadline approaches and OEMs release…

The freight logistics industry is undergoing a quiet transformation. With financial instability affecting brokerages and shifting commission structures prompting sales talent to explore new paths, the “agent model” — a 1099 contractor framework for freight brokers — is seeing renewed attention. As more logistics professionals seek greater flexibility, ownership, and earnings potential, understanding the…