Introduction: Join host Justin McKenzie on this enthralling episode of The Building Texas Show as he sits down with the visionary James Oleen, founder of American Tenet. Together, they embark on a deep dive into the revolutionary world of dual-use drone technology, uncovering its vast potential for both military and commercial applications.

Summary: In this episode, James Oleen shares his ambitious journey from leaving his job to founding American Tenet, where he aims to perfect a drone that can soar indefinitely without an engine. Inspired by the albatross, Oleen's innovative project leverages atmospheric thermals and advanced AI to achieve unprecedented flight duration. From a cross-country drone flight fraught with challenges to ambitious projects aimed at 100,000 ft manned soaring, Oleen's narrative is nothing short of inspiring. Discover the extensive potential applications of this cutting-edge technology, from wildfire management to Coast Guard operations and surveillance.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Innovative Drone Technology:
• James Oleen sheds light on his groundbreaking drone capable of using atmospheric thermals for extended flight.
• Challenge and Triumph:
• Details from Oleen’s adventurous cross-country drone flight with Steve, which involved navigating dirt roads and changing batteries every 16 minutes.
• Rescue Operation Enhancement:
• An exploration of how this drone technology could revolutionize search and rescue operations, making them more efficient and less risky.

Quotes from the Episode:

1. "Our mission is to develop a drone that can stay airborne for months without an engine, inspired by how an albatross flies."
2. "Deploying multiple unmanned aircraft could ensure quicker recoveries in search and rescue operations, without putting additional lives in danger."
3. "It's not just about the tech; it's about the community. The soaring community’s enthusiasm around sharing their passion for aviation has been incredibly inspiring."

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