LIFT Summit Agenda

March 31 – April 2, 2026 | Monterey Conference Center

View the 2025 LIFT Summit Recap

2026 LIFT Summit Agenda

We’re excited to announce the 2026 LIFT Summit agenda. These topics reflect the innovation, collaboration, and leadership shaping the future of the low-altitude economy.

At a Glance

Tues., March 31

7:00 AM – 5:00 PM – EXPO DAY**

Embark on an immersive bus tour and flight demonstrations from leading companies and get a firsthand look at the latest advancements in AAM and UAS technology.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Expo Day is only available to government, educational and nonprofit employees, and attendees MUST be willing to sign multiple non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in order to participate.


Exclusive Opening Reception at the Monterey Jet Center

The LIFT Summit Opening Reception is an exclusive, invitation-only kickoff event at the distinguished Monterey Jet Center. Reserved for LIFT sponsors, speakers, and VIP guests, it convenes top executives and innovators across the low altitude economy, offering unparalleled networking and brand-elevating opportunities in a premier, luxury setting.

Wed., April 1

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – CONFERENCE: DAY 1

  • American Air Leadership: National Strategy, Drone Dominance & the Path to Scaled Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)
  • State-Led Visions: Enabling Advanced Air Mobility Through eIPP Leadership
  • Part 108 & The Path to Scale: Unlocking Growth for Mature AAM Startups
  • Building the Talent Runway: DART-network Aviation Workforce Development in Action
  • Meeting the Moment In-Demand Skills for the Low-Altitude Economy

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM – NETWORKING RECEPTION

Connect and engage with leaders across AAM and UAS innovation, workforce training, infrastructure development and policy planning, from government, education, and industry.

Thurs., April 2

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – CONFERENCE: DAY 2

  • Funding the Future: Financing Airport Infrastructure through Federal, State & Public-Private Partnerships
  • Leading the Charge: Challenges and Solutions for Powering Vertiports
  • Airspace Management Modernization for Public Good
  • Digital Infrastructure for the Low-Altitude NAS
  • Storming the Market: Weather Risk, Mitigation, and National Strategy
  • Airport Integration: Lessons from the Field

2026 LIFT Summit Programming Committee

For the first time, the LIFT Summit is guided by a dedicated Programming Committee, Chaired by distinguished regional leader Mary Ann Leffel. Leaders from across sectors shaping the summit’s themes, sessions, and overall experience.

We’re grateful for their expertise and time, and we can’t wait for attendees to connect with them in person at the 2026 summit!

2026 LIFT Summit Chair

  • Mary Ann Leffel

    Monterey Regional Airport Board | Commissioner of LAFCO, Monterey County

Programming Committee:

  • Toni Gomez

    GO-Biz
    Business Development Specialist

  • Rhonda Simmons

    DART
    Strategic Advisor, Workforce Development

  • Patrick Gould

    Skyway
    Chief Commercial Officer

  • Pamela Gutman

    California Community Colleges
    Regional Director, Advanced Transportation and Logistics

  • Matt Nelson

    Salinas Municipal Airport
    Airport Manager

  • Kaitlin Penry

    Naval Postgraduate School
    Director of Research Innovation

  • Erin Sheelen

    Kimley-Horn
    Transportation Planner

  • Emilien Marchand

    Wisk
    Director, Ecosystem Partnerships

  • Don Berchoff

    TruWeather Solutions
    CEO

  • Cody Cleverly

    Joby Aviation
    Workforce Development Lead

  • Adam Cohen

    University of California, Berkeley
    Senior Research Manager