AUVSI Leadership Transition Underway as Michael Robbins Prepares to Depart
AUVSI's President and CEO Michael Robbins will leave the organization on September 30, 2026, to lead the Semiconductor Industry Association. Chief Operating Officer Heather Lee will become Acting President and CEO on October 1.
The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) has announced a leadership transition as President and CEO Michael Robbins prepares to depart the organization.
Robbins will leave AUVSI on September 30, 2026, to become President and CEO of the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA). He joined AUVSI in 2020 as Chief Advocacy Officer and was named President and CEO in 2024.
During his tenure, AUVSI expanded its advocacy work in Washington and its engagement with policymakers in support of the development of a robust U.S.-based drone ecosystem. The organization also expanded its work across defense, commercial drones, and ground and maritime autonomous systems.
AUVSI representatives testified before Congress eight times during Robbins' leadership.
## Leadership Change
Chief Operating Officer Heather Lee will become Acting President and CEO on October 1. Lee currently serves as AUVSI's Chief Operating Officer and has nearly two decades of experience in the industry, including leadership roles at CTIA - The Wireless Association.
Lee stated that the leadership change will not affect AUVSI's policy priorities, committee structure, or government relations strategy. Members, Hill offices, and agency partners can expect to see the same level of engagement, responsiveness, and results from the organization.
## Search for Permanent Successor
The AUVSI Board of Directors has launched a search for the association's next permanent President and CEO. The Board plans to conduct a "thorough and efficient" search for the position.
Lee will lead the organization during the search process. The AUVSI Board said it is confident in Lee's ability to guide the organization's continued forward progress.
The leadership change comes as AUVSI continues its policy and industry work across the growing autonomous systems sector. The organization represents companies and other stakeholders working in uncrewed systems, robotics, and autonomous technologies.
The transition marks a new chapter for AUVSI as it continues to advocate for the development of a robust U.S.-based drone ecosystem.
