From "Unmanned" to "Uncrewed", Industry Trade Group Aims to Promote Inclusivity

AUVSI, or the now former Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems, has announced its name change into the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems in order "to reflect ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusivity," effective immediately. 

The association says the change will bring additional talent in the business. “In this groundbreaking industry, we know that inclusivity accelerates innovation,” said Mignonne Hollis, Chair of the new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion advisory group. “We urge all stakeholders to follow the leadership of AUVSI in adopting gender-inclusive language that invites all to participate and help drive the discussions that will shape our collective future.” With the change, the group will also carry out a bevy of edits in all its publications in order to unify the language used in all print materials. 

In addition to dropping the word “unmanned” and other gender-specific terms in its name, governing documents, and association language, the AUVSI announced the launch of its DE&I Advisory Group, measures it hopes will expand the base of personnel interested in joining the industry from current demographics. The efforts round out the 50th year of industry work that they hope will lead to a fruitful future with more growth than ever before. The UAS and UAV markets are poised for explosive, never before seen expansion, ready to touch on every facet of life from travel, to shipping, public safety, and more. 

“In 2022, AUVSI will reflect on lessons learned in the last 50 years and look toward the next 50 years of industry growth and evolution,” said CEO Brian Wynne. “By launching the DE&I (their rendering of the usual "DEI" acronym) Advisory Group and other new initiatives, AUVSI will continue to lead, engage and educate the community. Under our new identity and with a cohesive voice, AUVSI will advance our bold vision of an autonomous future in which uncrewed technologies are integrated into society and provide lasting public and economic benefits.” 

FMI: www.auvsi.org