Summit Recap
The 2026 LIFT Summit brought together leaders in Advanced Air Mobility, defense, workforce development, and public policy to shape the future of next-generation aviation.
A sold-out, behind-the-scenes start
Expo Day kicked off the Summit with a sold-out, behind-the-scenes experience at AirSpace Integration and Joby Aviation. Attendees explored exclusive tours and live demos from Joby Aviation, AeroVironment, Wilbur-Ellis, Cherokee Federal, and Pivotal.
An evening at the Monterey Jet Center
The day concluded with an Opening Reception at the Monterey Jet Center, one of America’s top luxury FBOs. Guests connected among aircraft and innovation showcases by Ampaire, Pivotal, AeroVironment, TruWeather Solutions, Skyway Technologies, and Joby Aviation.
Two days of ideas in action
Two days of high-impact programming followed, featuring keynotes and panels focused on scaling AAM infrastructure, advancing dual-use innovation, and building inclusive workforce pathways. Sessions highlighted actionable strategies for workforce development, including training pipelines, resilient job creation, and community engagement, ensuring that California’s growing AAM ecosystem benefits both industry and local communities.
“Attending the 2026 LIFT Summit allowed me to fully understand how aviation is evolving in the AAM space and to connect with those making the AAM vision a reality.”
A diverse group of exhibiting sponsors highlighted the ecosystem driving innovation, including See Monterey, Caltrans, Thales, Monterey County Workforce Development Board, DART, TruWeather Solutions, Salinas Business Park, RMW Architecture & Interiors, Kimley-Horn, CITRIS Aviation, and Joby Aviation, with a special exhibit and outdoor display from Cherokee Federal. Discussions emphasized cross-sector collaboration and a community-oriented approach to workforce and industry growth, further solidifying California’s leadership in the low-altitude economy.
2026 Speakers
Peter IrvineUnited States Department of Transportation
Yolanka WulffCommunity Air Mobility Initiative
Parimal Kopardekar (PK)NASA
Emily WarrenCalifornia State Transportation Agency (CalSTA)
Sam AssefaCalifornia Governor's office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI)
2026 Sponsors & Partners
2026 Foundational Supporters
