Censys Technologies to lead live UAS demonstration for Project RuralReach at UND’s Gorman Field UAS Test Range
The UND Aerospace UAS Test Range at Gorman Field in Emerado, N.D., is a facility designed to test and train new UAS technology. At the Range, the building pictured offers office, work and hanger space for UAV testing and development. Center for Innovation photo.
What:
Project RuralReach will launch a critical use case test with advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), demonstrating the systems’ potential to enhance disaster response, situational awareness and resource mobilization in rural communities.
The live demonstration will feature multiple flight missions, including search and rescue, transmission line inspection, and data collection using RGB and LiDAR sensors, all operated by Censys Technologies. (RGB or Red, Green and Blue sensors are especially useful for creating high-resolution, color-accurate images from aerial perspectives. LiDAR or Light Detection and Ranging sensors generate precise, three-dimensional information that can be used to develop digital and highly detailed maps.)
Gorman Field UAS Test Range 1209 24th St NE, Emerado, N.D. 58228
Flight Details:
Multiple flight missions throughout the day:
Launch #1: Search & Rescue Mission (9:15 a.m.)
Launch #2: Transmission Line Flyover (~11:15 a.m., 30 minutes)
Launch #3: Data Collection (RGB & LiDAR) (1:30 p.m.)
Payload swaps and Q&A sessions after missions
Demonstration of real-time situational awareness, data collection and resource mobilization in rural scenarios
Why It Matters:
This demonstration highlights the growing role of UAS technology in strengthening rural resilience and supporting emergency response. Project RuralReach showcases real-world drone applications that help first responders and communities respond more efficiently to emergencies, gather critical data and improve overall safety and connectivity in sparsely populated areas.
Visual Opportunities:
Live drone launches and landings
Payload swaps and real-time data demonstrations
Interviews with flight operators and project stakeholders
Behind-the-scenes look at UAS prep and operations
Image:
Gorman Field building, 1.4MB: The UND Aerospace UAS Test Range at Gorman Field in Emerado, N.D., is a facility designed to test and train new UAS technology. At the Range, the building pictured offers office, work and hanger space for UAV testing and development. Center for Innovation photo.
Media Contact:
Haylee Bjork, Marketing Outreach Coordinator Organization: UND Center for Innovation
Learn how to pitch your innovation and compete for up to $2M in NSF seed funding.
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We’re excited to host Elizabeth (Ela) Mirowski, NSF SBIR/STTR Program Director, who will share insights on how to:
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📅 Date: September 10, 2025, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
📍 Location: Grand Farm Classroom (In-person & Virtual)
Project Rural Reach flight carries medical supplies from Williston, N.D., to Watford City, N.D., in just over 35 minutes
Dr. Ben Kazim of McKenzie Health, a hospital and clinic in Watford City, N.D., receives medical supplies at the hospital from the drone. Photo courtesy of Absolute Studios.
In a notable step toward improving health care access in rural communities, Project Rural Reach successfully launched its first long-range drone delivery flight on July 24. The mission showed how unmanned aircraft systems can bridge critical gaps in medical logistics across North Dakota’s rural landscape.
“The 80-mile flight carried medical supplies over the western North Dakota prairie, from Williston to Watford City,” reported AirMed&Rescue, a publication dedicated to the international air medical and search-and-rescue community.
“The trial demonstrates the real-world potential of Beyond Visual Line of Sight or BVLOS drone deliveries in rural areas,” the story continued. “Unlike previous deliveries, which were conducted in tightly controlled urban environments, this mission aimed to demonstrate the ability of drones to navigate a ‘dynamic, uncontrolled airspace, populated by low-flying, non-cooperative aircraft.’”
Jeff Barta, project manager for UND’s Center for Innovation, noted that the successful delivery took only a little over a half hour. That’s important: “Instead of a delivery taking 60 to 90 minutes from start to finish, UAS technology can complete emergency medication deliveries in 35 minutes,” he said.
“Those saved minutes could mean the difference between life and death, especially in underserved rural areas.”
Project RuralReach is a federally funded initiative initiative led by the Center for Innovation in partnership with the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, Vantis, iSight Drone Services and McKenzie Health, a hospital and clinic in Watford City, N.D. It was funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) through its ARPA Economic Adjustment Assistance Program.
This first use case initiative showcases the power of UAS to improve access to rural health care supplies, while testing the capabilities of North Dakota’s statewide Vantis network, the nation’s first UAS system for beyond visual line of sight flights.
“The use of drones has the potential to enhance the delivery of health care by rapidly transporting crucial lab samples, medications and supplies to and from remote clinics and locations,” said Peter Edis, CEO of McKenzie Health. “This technology can reduce delays caused by geographic isolation, harsh weather or staffing shortages. By improving logistics, drones can help ensure timely care, continuity of services and better patient outcomes — especially when time is of the essence.”
In this screenshot from a KFYR-TV news report, the Supervolo drone operated by iFlight Drone Services is shown arriving at its destination in Watford City, N.D.
The Supervolo drone, measuring just over 6 feet long and with a wingspan of nearly 10 feet, was operated by iSight Drone Services of Grand Forks, N.D.
The successful launch marks the beginning of a series of flight tests aimed at evaluating how UAS technology can be integrated into health care infrastructure to serve remote communities more efficiently. Future flights will expand to additional rural areas and include further use cases to examine power needs and partnerships with emergency responders.
“Rural communities don’t have the luxury of cooperative-only airspace,” said Erin Roesler, deputy executive director of the Northern Plains UAS Test Site. “What makes this operation so impactful is that it proves BVLOS can be done safely, even in complex, real-world rural environments, and that it can bring real value to North Dakota communities.”
In a few weeks, the next flight will use Censys Technologies’ drones to evaluate the resources, technology and infrastructure needed to deploy drones in partnership with emergency responders as part of disaster response, real-time situational awareness and crisis resource mobilization. This data will build on this first use case for rural medical care supply delivery.
For UND and its partners, Project Rural Reach is more than a tech demonstration, Barta said. It’s part of a bold vision for transforming rural health care through innovation and collaboration.
The UND Center for Innovation is thrilled to announce a major milestone for Project RuralReach, a $1 million initiative funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and led by the University of North Dakota. This groundbreaking project is entering the skies with a bold mission: to develop a statewide UAS (Uncrewed Aircraft Systems) commercialization strategy and conduct an in-depth economic impact study.
Now in the implementation phase, Project RuralReach is partnering with three innovative vendors to launch UAS demonstration projects across the state. Each company will conduct Use Case Tests to explore real-world applications of drone technology that could transform industries and strengthen rural communities.
Focus: Utilizing drones for disaster response and situational awareness
Test Flights Begin: Mid-August 2025
These pilot projects are more than test flights; they’re bold steps toward a smarter, more connected, and more resilient North Dakota.
Supporting Rural & Coal-Impacted Communities
Project RuralReach is funded through the EDA’s American Rescue Plan and Coal Communities Commitment, a federal effort to invest in economic transformation for regions historically dependent on coal and other energy industries. North Dakota is uniquely positioned to lead this charge, thanks to Vantis, the nation’s first and only statewide BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) network for drones.
By tapping into North Dakota’s UAS infrastructure and innovation ecosystem, Project RuralReach is working to:
Accelerate UAS commercialization across key industries
Foster job creation and economic resilience
Expand access to advanced technologies in rural communities
Powered by Collaboration
This project wouldn’t be possible without the support of our exceptional partners:
Behind-the-scenes looks at the upcoming UAS flight demonstrations
Initial findings from the economic impact study
Opportunities to engage with the future of unmanned systems in North Dakota
Whether you’re a policymaker, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, Project RuralReach invites you to be part of the journey to revolutionize how rural America connects, responds, and thrives.
Join us on April 29, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:30 PM at the UND Memorial Union for LAUNCH, a high-energy demo day where startups showcase their products and progress to investors, mentors, and industry experts. Experience dynamic pitches, live demos, networking over appetizers, and connect with a vibrant mix of venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Whether discovering the next big idea or making valuable connections, LAUNCH is a spark for innovation and growth. Don’t miss the chance to witness the future of startups in action!
Come and celebrate the Grand Forks region’s entrepreneurs on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 at the Grand Awards!
The Grand Awards is an evening dedicated to celebrating local entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to our community.
Hosted by Evolve GF and the Grand Forks Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, this event showcases the innovation, resilience, and success defining our business landscape. From groundbreaking startups to established businesses, we’re committed to recognizing outstanding achievements that make our community grand.
Come together with business leaders, community supporters, and entrepreneurs for an inspiring evening honoring those shaping the future of business in our community.
Adrian serves as our Process Improvement Specialist at CFI. Whether he’s managing events, helping members and guests, or brainstorming with the team, he’s always on the go. His contributions are vital to the smooth operation of CFI, and we’re incredibly grateful to have him on board! Read on to learn more about Adrian!
Adrian Luevano
1. What do you typically do during a day at work?
On a typical day at work, I help manage events in our meeting rooms, assist with creating policies and processes, and help visitors at the Center for Innovation.
2. What college did you attend and what was your major?
I studied International Relations at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Monterrey, Mexico, and after that, I earned my Master’s degree in Prospective and Strategic Studies at Tecnológico de Monterrey.
3. What is your favorite book or movie?
My favorite book I would say is Cloud Atlas
4. If you could drop everything and go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
My favorite city is Kyoto, but right now I would love to go to the beach.
5. What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
My favorite thing to do in my free time is spend time with my wife and play with my dog.
6. What is your favorite part of living in Grand Forks?
My favorite part of living in Grand Forks is that it has the best of both worlds – it has the advantages of a big city, like having plenty to do, but also the perks of a small town, like no traffic, low pollution, and a really peaceful atmosphere.
7. What is your favorite part about working at CFI?
My favorite part about working at CFI is the positive and supportive work environment. I really enjoy how everyone is always willing to collaborate and help each other.
47% of 2018-19 participants have stayed in Grand Forks region, InternGF officials say
Becca Cruger (left), workforce development director for the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp., and Amy Whitney, director of UND’s Center for Innovation, welcome attendees at the Feb. 21 launch of the 2025 InternGF program. The program was held at the Center for Innovation on the UND campus. Photo by Mark Maliskey, Marketing & Communications manager, Grand Forks Region EDC.
The UND Center for Innovation and Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation hosted the 2025 launch of InternGF on Feb. 21, marking the program’s second annual kickoff event.
At the event, attendees reflected on six years of growth since the program’s inception in 2018, calling attention to key milestones in workforce development. Employers and former interns shared firsthand experiences, showcasing the program’s lasting impact on students, businesses and the regional economy.
Local employers, high-wage careers
The InternGF partnership between the Center for Innovation and the Grand Forks EDC began when both organizations recognized a need to help the region’s recruitment and retention efforts. The organizations came together and designed InternGF to introduce UND students to high-wage, unique and in-demand careers with local employers in the Grand Forks region.
The program funds up to $3,500 per internship for selected employers, with the focus being on start-ups and Grand Forks EDC members.
Center for Innovation Director Amy Whitney and Grand Forks EDC Workforce Development Director Becca Cruger opened the event with a look at InternGF’s impact over the past six years, highlighting its role in strengthening the regional workforce and creating new opportunities for students and employers.
At the second annual InternGF kickoff event on Feb. 21, participants learned more about the program and its success at serving students, businesses and the regional economy. Photo by Mark Maliskey, Marketing & Communications manager, Grand Forks Region EDC.
148 internships since 2018
A key element of their presentation was the program’s significant wage impact on the Grand Forks region. Since its launch in 2018, InternGF has funded more than 148 internships, providing $268,000 in reimbursements to participating companies — contributing to a total regional wage impact exceeding $500,000.
The InternGF program has not only made a significant impact on the region’s economy, but it has also enriched UND students’ experiences and shaped their futures. Gracie Lian, a UND alum who participated in the program during the summer of 2019 as an administration intern for Grand Forks County, shared how her mentorship experience influenced her career path:
“I found my internship during my sophomore year while searching for opportunities in the nonprofit public sector,” Lian said. “Through that experience, I learned about UND’s Master’s in Public Administration degree program and applied during my junior year.
“Once accepted, the skills and insights I gained from my summer internship played a key role in helping me succeed throughout the program.”
Lian has continued her work with Grand Forks County, now serving as a project coordinator, fully embracing her passion for nonprofit work. Building on the foundation her internship provided, she continues to make a lasting impact in the community — just as many of her peers have.
In fact, 47% of participants from Lian’s 2018-19 InternGF cohort have remained in the Grand Forks region, living and working where their careers first began.
Gracie Lian (center), UND ’21, a project coordinator with Grand Forks County and a panelist at InternGF’s recent 2025 launch event, talks about her previous experience as an InternGF participant. Photo by Mark Maliskey, Marketing & Communications manager, Grand Forks Region EDC.
Six years of strong connections
InternGF creates unique local internship opportunities, allowing students to find positions aligned with their interests without having to look elsewhere.
Consider Aethero, a UAS and AI technology startup that focuses on analyzing building infrastructure and collecting critical data on structural health. Having support for interns has increased their success in identifying UAS drone pilots and technical talent, as highlighted at the event by Karthik Balaji, head of Technology and Product Development at Aethero and a UND alum.
“InternGF was one of the crucial programs that helped support us through powering the research and development phase into our commercialization,” Balaji said.
To conclude the event, Chelsea Mellenthin, director of Career Engagement at UND’s Experiential Learning Center, and Kate Larson, assistant director of Experiential Learning, encouraged employers to expand internship and mentorship opportunities for UND students, highlighting the importance of increasing opportunities for international students as well.
InternGF continues to forge strong connections between UND students and the expanding regional job market, boosting both the local economy and students’ career prospects in the Grand Forks region.
The program’s evolution and impact on participants such as Gracie Lian and innovative companies such as Aethero show InternGF’s capacity to introduce and retain talent in the region, speakers said at the Feb. 21 event. By creating a symbiotic relationship between academic talent and local businesses, InternGF has established itself as a pipeline for student achievement and regional economic development.
Running a small business in Grand Forks is no small feat. From juggling daily operations to planning for growth, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. Winter months bring their own set of challenges—slumps in sales, staffing shortages, and questions about how to expand into new markets.
What if you could tackle these challenges head-on and leave with a plan you’re excited to put into action?
The Solution Sprint Workshop on December 7th is your opportunity to step away from the daily grind, focus on your business, and walk out with a concrete, actionable plan.
Why You Should Attend
If you’re a small business owner looking to:
Attract more customers and boost sales.
Overcome the winter sales slump.
Find and retain reliable staff.
Explore and plan for expansion into new markets.
Then this workshop is for you.
This is a high-impact, hands-on workshop tailored to business owners who want results. Together, we’ll dig into your biggest challenges and work step-by-step to create a strategy that works for you.
Photo captured doing strategy planning
What to Expect
Here’s how the day unfolds:
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Clarify
We’ll start by exploring your vision, gathering insights, and clearly defining your most pressing challenges.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Ideate
Using creative thinking techniques, you’ll brainstorm potential solutions, identifying ideas with the most potential to move forward.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Lunch
Take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch on us while connecting with fellow business owners.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Develop
Refine, evaluate, and strengthen your top ideas to turn them into actionable solutions.
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Implement
You’ll finish the day by creating a practical, step-by-step plan that you can execute immediately to grow your business.
Solution Sprint Agenda
Why This Workshop Works
Practical, Hands-On Approach
Forget boring PowerPoints. You’ll roll up your sleeves, work through your real business scenarios, and leave with tools you can use right away.
Collaborative Energy
Connect with other Grand Forks business owners who share your challenges and aspirations. Share insights, learn from their experiences, and leave with fresh perspectives.
Expert Guidance
You’ll be guided by an experienced facilitator who knows how to help you clarify your vision, prioritize what matters, and take action.
Workshop Details
📅 Date: Thursday, December 7th
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Lunch included!)
📍 Location: Center for Innovation, 4200 James Ray Drive, Grand Forks
💡 Cost: $250 per participant
👉 Sign up now and save $50 with the early bird discount! Use code EARLYBIRD at checkout.
