Discover how the Choctaw Nation BEYOND Program is leading the way in eVTOL development and drone technology, with insights from James Grimsley on its innovative initiatives and the sophisticated Daisy Ranch facility.
The Choctaw Nation BEYOND Program has emerged as a significant force in advancing drone technology, particularly in the realm of eVTOL (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) development. On June 26, 2024, Martin Richardson explored this pioneering initiative on the SkyShift program with James Grimsley, an expert in Advanced Transportation Technology and Policy.
James Grimsley, who serves as the executive director of the Advanced Technology Initiatives Department for the program, shared his rich background in aerospace engineering and his transition from the Air Force to his current role. Grimsley and Richardson discussed the innovative strides taken by the BEYOND program, highlighting the sophisticated capabilities of the Daisy Ranch facility, a key site for aviation research and testing.
Leveraging the unique sovereignty of the Choctaw Nation, the BEYOND program has cultivated a cutting-edge environment conducive to significant advancements in drone technology. Grimsley’s leadership over the past two decades has been instrumental in propelling the BEYOND initiative to the forefront of drone technology and policy development.

