The need for advanced security solutions is greater than ever. Large events like festivals and sporting events are difficult to secure due to large numbers of attendees. Theft and vandalism are at an all time high at distribution centers costing millions. In 2022, a power grid in North Carolina was targeted by gunfire, causing significant power outages, and industrial sites, especially those handling hazardous materials, are in need more than ever of extra protection against potential unauthorized access.
The trouble is that the security industry is grappling to solve issues with labor shortages and the high operating costs associated with maintaining human security staff. Recruiting and retaining skilled personnel for round-the-clock surveillance is becoming more difficult, creating coverage gaps and more vulnerability to security breaches. While a shift to other solutions including robotics and drones have demonstrated a great deal of potential, most don’t integrate well into current security systems; they also can be complicated, costly and demand substantial investment in technology and training.
Founder, Jake Shild
LandSkyAI founder Jake Shild has developed a dynamic and modern approach to safety and surveillance that solves for both the increased demand for advanced security measures and the problem of labor shortages and exorbitant cost of around-the-clock human surveillance.
Utilizing advanced AI and robotics, Shild’s devised a solution utilizing advanced drones and robots, supported by a Robotic Operations Center, to offer comprehensive and efficient surveillance and monitoring.
Shild’s explains, “Our goal is to make the adoption of robotics simple, accessible and easy to implement. We do this by requiring the end-user to allocate little to no time on implementing our solutions.”
The Family Security and Technology Business
Jake Shild’s journey into security technology began while working for the family business Advanced Electronic Solutions, Inc (AES). From high school through university, Jake was immersed in the security integration sector, contributing to AES’s technological advancements. A pivotal moment came when he encountered “drone-in-a-box” technology.
“The drone-in-a-box system is an automated drone that charges, takes off, and lands in its box or nest, simplifying security operations. When I first saw this system, I knew it had the potential to revolutionize security,” notes Shild.
“We quickly set up demos for customers of AES,” said Shild. While they were impressed, they raised numerous concerns about adoption. Issues like operator licensing, setup and maintenance, staying current with technology, and the initial investment were major hurdles. Shild explains, “Essentially, they saw these systems as just moving cameras without real feedback.”
Rather than the long list of adoption challenges being a deterrent, Shild set out to remove the barriers and created LandSkyAI. “The whole purpose of the company was built around understanding the problems that were stopping adoption of this technology and determining how we could really alleviate those hurdles.”
Overcoming Initial Challenges
The early days of LandSkyAI were marked by customer hesitancy and logistical challenges. Clients raised concerns about the operational demands of integrating drones and robots into their existing security frameworks. Shild and his team went to work developing a comprehensive, turnkey solution that now includes everything from deployment and customization to maintenance and operation.
LandSky AI’s full automation package is designed to make the adoption of robotics straightforward and efficient. Their systems, including drone-in-a-box and ground robots with wireless or contact charging, are tailored to each client’s needs. The Robotic Operations Center (ROC) plays a crucial role, enabling remote piloting and real-time video analytics to ensure optimal performance.
The LandSkyAI Team
LandSkyAI has established itself as leaders in the industry. Their expertise in robotics and security technology has earned them credibility, enabling them to compete with much larger organizations. By providing a complete package, LandSkyAI eliminates the need for additional resources and allows clients to benefit from advanced security technology without the typical complexities of implementation.
Shild is proud of what the small but mighty team at LandSkyAI has been able to accomplish and the reputation they have earned. He says, “We are competing with larger organizations by becoming trusted advisors for our clients. We have established deep relationships that allow us to advise on various aspects of robotics and drone technology.”
He continued, “Our clients see us as credible experts who can deliver custom solutions, such as replacing traditional 3D virtual tours with our indoor drone systems. We also help clients organize multiple systems from different manufacturers to meet their deployment deadlines. It’s been rewarding to earn this credibility and see our technology in action, especially as our team grows.”
Market Opportunities and the Future
The current market trends favor LandSkyAI’s solutions. Driven by labor market changes and challenges and the need for automation of jobs people don’t want. According to Shild, “Security jobs have been labeled by the four D’s–dirty, dull, dangerous and demanding. This will continue to make it hard to fill security roles, and the demand for more drones and robotics will continue, especially in commercial and industrial settings.”
“I believe we can position LandSkyAI as the leading turnkey robotics provider in the safety and security market. It’s a niche with few competitors, maybe only five to ten serious players, and we’re uniquely adaptable compared to others. Our approach sets us apart, making us well-positioned to be the foremost trusted advisor in commercial and industrial security using drones and robotics,” he continues.
From its inception to its current standing as an innovator in the security space, LandSky AI is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in security technology. With a focus on simplifying the adoption of advanced drones and robotics, the company is addressing critical industry challenges and positioning itself for continued growth. As LandSky AI looks to the future, its innovative solutions promise to reshape the security landscape, offering enhanced safety, reduced liability, and streamlined operations for a safer world.
Spencer Hulse is the Editorial Director at Grit Daily. He is responsible for overseeing other editors and writers, day-to-day operations, and covering breaking news.