RALEIGH – North Carolina is paving the way for a new era of air transportation. The N.C. Department of Transportation has formed the University Transportation Center of Excellence for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), bringing together top universities to redefine how we transport people and goods through innovative aviation technologies.
This initiative brings together N.C. Agricultural and Technical State University, N. C. State University, and Elizabeth City State University to integrate cutting-edge air mobility technologies into the state’s transportation systems. The center will tackle challenges like emergency response, regional air mobility, and preparing the infrastructure and workforce needed to make new aviation technologies a success.
“This center represents an extraordinary opportunity to revolutionize transportation in our state,” said Nick Short, NCDOT’s interim director of aviation. “By investing in this research, we’re not only shaping the future of air mobility but also preparing North Carolina’s workforce to lead in this exciting and rapidly evolving field. I am especially thrilled to see N.C. A&T State University take the lead on this project. Their expertise and leadership will be instrumental in advancing this initiative, and it’s an exciting moment for the state as we pave the way for the future of transportation.”
The center will tackle various transportation challenges through specialized focus areas:
- N.C. A&T State University is the lead of the project and will play a central role in developing simulation platforms to improve coordination between ground and air transportation systems, with a particular focus on safely deploying electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The team will also work on public engagement to foster community acceptance of these technologies and assess how the aviation job market is evolving.
- N.C. State University will address the integration of surface and air mobility systems, enhance rural emergency response capabilities, and analyze the economic and workforce impacts of AAM.
- Elizabeth City State University will research Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Advanced Air Mobility applications for emergency response in rural areas. Their work will provide critical guidance for policymakers and create training programs for future operators.
One of the center’s priorities is developing simulation platforms to ensure seamless coordination between ground and air transport systems. This effort will enhance mobility for rural and urban areas, making transportation faster and more efficient. Additionally, using UAS for emergency response will address the unique challenges rural areas face during disasters.
The initiative also emphasizes workforce development, preparing the next generation of professionals with the skills needed to lead in this rapidly changing field. By prioritizing education and training, the center ensures that North Carolina remains a hub for innovation in transportation.
“This partnership will advance innovative transportation solutions that benefit rural and urban communities alike,” said Daniel Findley, lead researcher at N.C. State University’s Institute for Transportation Research and Education. “Advanced Air Mobility has transformative potential in N.C. and beyond, and our research team is well positioned to contribute in the areas of surface and air mobility integration, rural emergency response, operational safety and reliability, and the potential economic, infrastructure, and workforce benefits and impacts of this technology.”
With $2 million in initial funding over two years, the University Transportation Center of Excellence will drive impactful research and training programs, ensuring North Carolina remains at the forefront of transportation innovation.
For more information about NCDOT’s Advanced Mobility initiatives, visit Advanced Transportation Mobility Strategic Plan.
Related
Discover more from sUAS News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
