Mr. Williams will speak at  lunch on Tuesday, April 14, 2015. He'll address the recently published notice of proposed rulemaking issued by his office in FAA, including regulations and policies that will affect surveying and mapping firms that want to fly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the commercial market.

"MAPPS has worked with Mr. Williams and his staff for several years to assure that business and societal benefits of using UAV/UAS for aerial surveying, mapping and imagery are recognized and empowered in FAA policy," said John Palatiello, MAPPS Executive Director. "UAV/UAS technology is the future of the mapping, surveying and geospatial profession. It is imperative that geospatial firms have the ability to operate UAV/UAS.  Mr. Williams understands this, and his office's policies have reflected his understanding of our community as an important stakeholder." 

"We're honored to have Mr. Williams join us at the conference. We look forward to hearing how he sees the future of UAV/UAS and how it will effect the business and professional practice of surveying and mapping," said Curtis Sumner, National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) Executive Director. "His addition to the conference strengthens an already outstanding program."

Full registration for the conference is required for admission to the keynote luncheon. The National Surveying, Mapping and Geospatial Conference will be held April 13 - 17, 2015 at the Hilton Hotel in Crystal City (Arlington), VA. Information, registration and other conference details can be found at www.surveyingandmapping.net.