DistribuTech 2025 was an incredible opportunity for IO Aerospace to showcase our capabilities, connect with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into the evolving utility sector. From our conversations with attendees to our success in the Initiate Startup Pitch Competition, the event reinforced the need for high-resolution, rapid-turnaround geospatial data and we proved that IO Imagery is up to the task.
What We Learned
A consistent theme throughout the event was the utility industry’s growing reliance on geospatial data for applications ranging from infrastructure planning and maintenance to proactive risk management. Our discussions confirmed a few key takeaways:
- Speed and Scale Matter: Attendees were consistently amazed at how much area we could cover and how quickly we could deliver high-resolution imagery. The ability to locate and analyze pole positions with precision was particularly well-received.
- Satellite Imagery Falls Short: There has been significant overpromising regarding satellite data’s resolution and accuracy. Our 10 cm optical imagery and 20 cm DSM data met the industry’s actual needs, offering clarity and precision unavailable from satellite sources.
- Vegetation Management Are Top Priorities: With 72% of power outages linked to vegetation encroachment (as highlighted by Green Mountain Power in their talk), utilities are shifting toward proactive risk management strategies to maintain grid resilience.
- Affordability Remains a Key Consideration: Many attendees were surprised to learn that high-resolution imagery and DSM solutions can be both affordable and scalable, making them viable for large-area applications without exceeding budget constraints.
Finalist in the Initiate Startup Pitch Competition
We placed fourth out of 58 participants, validating the industry’s enthusiasm for our capabilities.
“IO Aerospace delivered a compelling and well-executed pitch, showcasing an innovative solution with significant potential. Their approach stood out among a strong field of startups, and they narrowly missed securing a top-three spot by just a fraction of a point. It was exciting to see their vision and technology in action, and we look forward to their continued impact in the industry.” – Sarah Toews, Senior Conference Manager, DISTRIBUTECH
A Bright Future for Geospatial Data in Utilities
The utility sector’s demand for high-resolution geospatial data is stronger than ever. At DistribuTech 2025, industry experts confirmed the need for fast, accurate, and cost-effective solutions – needs that IO Aerospace is uniquely positioned to meet. Our high-resolution data, rapid delivery, and competitive pricing are closing the gap between the promises of satellite imagery and the reality of utility operations.
We’re excited to continue building partnerships, refining our solutions, and helping utilities harness the power of aerial data for efficiency, safety, and resilience. Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and shared insights.
Reach out to learn how IO Imagery can support your utility operations.
3D Printed Jet Model
We really caught people’s attention with a cool display of our aircraft and tech, and it led to some great conversations!
