First Annual
DroneSense Innovation Summit
by Versaterm
Apr 20-22, 2026 | Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
This Is Not Another Summit. ​​
This Is Where the Standard Is Set.​​
The DroneSense Innovation Summit by Versaterm is the definitive gathering for public safety agencies leading the next era of drone operations.
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For two full days in Scottsdale, public safety professionals from across the country will come together for immersive training, live flight experiences and real-world collaboration. This is where agencies move beyond experimentation; refining, scaling and operationalizing drone programs that are already reshaping how first responders arrive faster, see more clearly and respond more safely.
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Whether you’re launching your first program, expanding a growing fleet or operating a mature Drone as First Responder (DFR) model, this summit is built around one truth: public safety drones are no longer optional, and excellence matters.
This is not a passive, sit-and-listen event.
It’s a working summit designed for operators who fly, manage, deploy and defend drone programs every day as well as agencies looking to launch or scale their programs.
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From patrol and fire response to search and rescue, tactical operations and large-scale multi-agency missions, every session is designed to deliver practical insights you can put to work immediately.
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Beyond training, this summit creates something the public safety aviation community has long needed: a true network of operators working together to advance the future of public safety aviation.
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​If your agency is serious about operationalizing and scaling drone programs, this is where that work happens.
Experience
Live flight demonstrations and dedicated flying time
Hands-on DroneSense platform training, from pilots to command-level workflows
Scenario-driven sessions based on real incidents, not hypotheticals
Peer-led discussions from agencies setting the pace nationwide
Direct, one-on-one access to DroneSense experts shaping the platform’s future
Who Should Attend?
This summit is designed for professionals actively involved in public safety drone programs.
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If your agency is responsible for operating, managing or expanding a drone program, you belong here.
Drone pilots and DFR operators
Agency leadership and command staff
Program managers and coordinators
Training officers and system administrators
General Topics
Regulations & Safety
Hands-on workshops
Future Trends & Innovation
Tactical/Indoor Ops
Search & Rescue Operations
Evidence & Mapping/Modeling
25 NDAA & what it means
Crewed aviation
Flight demonstrations
Drone as First Responder
Large Scale Operations
Fire Service Track
API Integrations
COMING SOON
2026 DroneSense by Versaterm
Aerial Impact Awards
The DroneSense by Versaterm Aerial Impact Awards recognizes organizations worldwide using the DroneSense by Versaterm platform to measurably improve emergency response, operational safety and community outcomes. We're focused on the real-world impact of these aerial programs.
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​​Open to all organizations currently using the DroneSense by Versaterm platform
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Includes law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, search & rescue organizations, government agencies and other emergency management operations globally
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Submissions must feature operations conducted within the past 18 months
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Multiple submissions from the same organization are welcome (including across different categories)
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Organization must have authorization to share operational details and footage externally
Eligibility
Award Categories​​​
Emergency Response Excellence
Best DFR Program
Search & Rescue Operations
Operational Innovation
Lifesaving Outcomes
Excellence in Documentation
Recognition
Award recipients receive:
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An award trophy and certificate
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Industry recognition during the conference and on social media
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Profile in customer communications
The Venue
Conference Site
Talking Stick Resort®
9800 E Talking Stick Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85256, US
The 2026 DroneSense Innovation Summit by Versaterm will be held at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.
This Four-Diamond resort offers modern accommodations and extensive meeting facilities, with convenient access to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport just 20 minutes away. The resort features a championship golf course, full-service spa, multiple pools and several restaurants. It's also part of Salt River’s Talking Stick Entertainment District which has additional dining, an aquarium, interactive entertainment, butterfly wonderland and the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens. Scottsdale's mild spring weather in April provides ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
A block of guest rooms for attendees is available at the hotel until March 27, 2026. Mention booking #2168 or "Versaterm" to get the preferred rate.​
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Call In and book:
Local: 480-270-5555
Toll Free: 866-877-9897
Room Rate: $209 per night (single/double occupancy) + $10 daily resort fee* + $10 bellman gratuity (roundtrip) + $3 per night housekeeping gratuity + taxes
*Resort Fee Includes:
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Refrigerator in guestroom stocked with bottled water daily
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In-room coffee
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Access to our 24-hour fitness center
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Complimentary wireless internet access (rooms, meeting spaces and public areas)
Hotel Parking: Complimentary, including the valet option
Schedule at a Glance
We are building out the agenda for the inaugural DroneSense Innovation Summit by Versaterm. This section will be updated regularly as new information is confirmed. The event will be filled with informative and inspiring content from DroneSense by Versaterm and industry experts as well as your very own peer. They will lead lively discussions, hands-on training and flight experiences that bring drone operations to life.
Conference Pricing
Sponsorship Opportunities
We are offering a few limited sponsorships in 2026 in addition to our exhibitor access. Your support provides access to training for these specialized professionals, while giving your company exposure to this influential group. Please contact us at usersconference@versaterm.com to explore your options.