Utilizing unique strategies over the past seven years, Evergy has developed and incorporated an effective Unmanned Systems Program in nearly all major operational work groups within the company. By working with a local university, Evergy has been able to scale the program in both a cost effective and efficient manner. This partnership has provided many benefits throughout the years such as low-cost R&D efforts, use case development, regulatory services/guidance, local talent acquisition (graduates), and much more. This session will dive into both the success and lessons learned that Evergy has experienced when building out a program, and how leveraging a university along the way can help drive success well into the future.