Professional Journey of Lori Brown
Lori Brown from Auvsi Cascade
Executive Leadership in Autonomous Systems:
Lori Brown is the executive director of the AUVSI Cascade Chapter, inspired by a passion for innovation and new experiences. Whether racing cars, skiing, or driving organizational change, Lori thrives on embracing challenges and advancing technology. Over a decade ago, as commercial drone applications began to take shape amidst restrictive regulations and slow approvals, Lori saw unique potential in the industry.
Entrepreneurial Beginnings and Early Impact:
To address the growing need for drone integration, Lori started her own consulting firm focused on helping organizations launch drone programs. One of her first major projects was supporting perimeter security operations at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, working with its Prime Contractor for Security.
About AUVSI:
Founded in December 1972, the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) stands today as the world’s largest nonprofit organization advancing uncrewed systems and robotics. Its community spans more than sixty countries, uniting members and stakeholders from around the globe.
Leadership in the Cascade Chapter:
Drawn to the Cascade Chapter for its commitment to industry advocacy, member education, connection building, and STEM promotion, Lori joined the leadership team ten years ago and stepped into the role of executive director two years later. Since its founding in 2009, the chapter has grown to nearly 700 members and regularly hosts two annual symposiums and multiple networking events. These gatherings support professional development, showcase technological progress, address regulatory shifts, and foster workforce growth. Members include users, manufacturers, service providers, government agencies, and academic institutions.
Industry Growth and Current Challenges:
Today, the autonomous systems field encompasses air, land, and sea, serving both defense and civil needs. Key sectors include public safety, agriculture, photography, real estate, construction, and industrial inspection. Despite remarkable progress, organizations still face hurdles as regulations evolve and new technologies emerge. The rise of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), with electric aircraft such as eVTOLs, promises to transform air transport. However, the sector must still overcome infrastructure, regulatory, and public trust challenges to achieve safe integration.
Personal Interests and Education:
Beyond her professional commitments, Lori enjoys golfing, boating, and traveling for pleasure. Though she no longer races cars, her enthusiasm for automobiles endures — she has owned Porsche vehicles since her twenties and served several years on the Oregon Region Porsche Club Board. Lori holds a business degree from the University of Oregon and completed the Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Program in high-tech marketing. Her leadership includes serving on various business and nonprofit boards, and acting as honorary commander for the Air National Guard’s 142nd Fighter Squadron in Portland, Oregon.
www.linkedin.com/in/loriabrown1
