# The Choctaw Nation BEYOND Program: Pioneering Advanced Drone Technology

By Martin Richardson · Published 2024-06-26 · Updated 2026-06-08 · Transportation on MarketScale
Canonical: https://www.marketscale.com/industries/transportation/choctaw-nation-beyond-program
Creator hub: SkyShift

> A tribal nation is positioning itself at the forefront of electric aviation innovation through a bold investment in advanced drone infrastructure

## Key points

- The Choctaw Nation's BEYOND program is investing in advanced drone and electric aviation infrastructure on tribal lands.
- The initiative aims to drive economic development and modernize transportation through uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).
- The program positions the Choctaw Nation as a pioneer among tribal communities in advanced air mobility adoption.

Block Field

The **Choctaw Nation** [BEYOND](https://cnoaa.com/) program is making waves in advanced drone technology, positioning itself as a key player in the [eVTOL](https://marketscale.com/industries/skyshift/infrastructure-is-the-essential-foundation-that-supports-and-connects-the-entire-evtol-network/) (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) era. In the latest episode of [SkyShift](https://marketscale.com/shows/skyshift/), host **Martin Richardson** dives into this innovative program with guest **James Grimsley**, an Advanced Transportation Technology and Policy Expert.

Richardson speaks with Grimsley about his extensive background in aerospace engineering and his journey from the Air Force to leading the Choctaw Nation's BEYOND program. They discuss the significant advancements in drone technology and the unique capabilities of the **Daisy Ranch** facility. Grimsley shares insights into how the program leverages the Choctaw Nation's sovereignty to create a state-of-the-art aviation research and testing environment.

> Grimsley shares insights into how the program leverages the Choctaw Nation's sovereignty to create a state-of-the-art aviation research and testing environment.

### About the Guest

**James Grimsley** is the executive director of the Advanced Technology Initiatives Department for the Choctaw Nation's BEYOND program. He brings over 20 years of experience in aerospace engineering and has played a pivotal role in shaping drone technology and policy.

Tags: Choctaw Nation, Choctaw Nation’s BEYOND program, drone technology, James Grimsley, Martin Richardson, SkyShift Podcast

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