Matt Smith
Founder,
MSI Autonomous Aviation & Aeronautics
Born and raised in Miami, FL, Matt Smith, founder of MSI Autonomous Aviation & Aeronautics, blends military grit with cutting-edge disaster innovation. Stationed in NW Fl as a US Army Airborne Medic, his platoon revamped Army emergency medical evacuation SOP's, rescue training operations, disaster response while earning certifications as a Swift Water Rescue Technician and EMT.
After relocating to Houston, TX, Smith answered the call during Hurricane Harvey, staying behind as a frontline responder. His firsthand experience with natural disasters in Florida and Texas fuels his work in MSI's D.R.E.A. Initiative Program & as one of the innovators in MSI's Disaster R&D, where they pioneer AUV solutions. Smith’s “hold my beer” attitude reflects his refusal to retreat when lives are at stake—he leads with courage and purpose. His keynote will challenge conventional thinking and spotlight the future of disaster technology through the lens of lived experience, relentless innovation, and a commitment to those who need help most.
After relocating to Houston, TX, Smith answered the call during Hurricane Harvey, staying behind as a frontline responder. His firsthand experience with natural disasters in Florida and Texas fuels his work in MSI's D.R.E.A. Initiative Program & as one of the innovators in MSI's Disaster R&D, where they pioneer AUV solutions. Smith’s “hold my beer” attitude reflects his refusal to retreat when lives are at stake—he leads with courage and purpose. His keynote will challenge conventional thinking and spotlight the future of disaster technology through the lens of lived experience, relentless innovation, and a commitment to those who need help most.
Seminar Title
Disaster R&D: Conquering Future Disasters Through Previous Mobilizations
Seminar Description
Collected field data during disaster mobilizations drives the development of future technologies, protocols, & response strategies. Learn how developing equipment, applications, & SOPs to diverse scenarios leads to better outcomes—& why proper data collection is the key to preparing for what’s next. This session empowers responders & innovators to transform real-world experience into actionable solutions for future resilience.
