WISPR Systems
Overview
WISPR Systems is a prominent manufacturer of commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) based in Batesville, Mississippi. Founded in 2016 by Conor Ferguson and Austin Ratcliffe, the company has positioned itself as a leader in the development of rugged and reliable drones for various commercial applications, including surveying, mapping, and telecommunications. With a focus on innovation and custom payload solutions, WISPR Systems offers a wide range of products tailored to meet the needs of diverse industries.
Recent Developments
- November 2024: WISPR Systems showcased their latest drone, the SkyScout, at Geo Week 2024. The SkyScout is designed for enhanced portability and performance in surveying, construction, and inspection applications. It features smart, hot-swappable batteries and advanced geotagging capabilities, setting a new standard for industry drones.
- September 2024: The company announced a strategic collaboration with YellowScan, a leader in LiDAR technology, at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas. This partnership aims to integrate YellowScan's LiDAR sensors with WISPR's UAV systems, enhancing data collection capabilities for industries like infrastructure inspection and environmental monitoring.
- August 2024: WISPR Systems reported significant success with their Ranger Pro drone, particularly in projects requiring advanced surveying and data collection, like the reconstruction of a Texas road. The Ranger Pro has facilitated faster project completions and improved efficiency for its users.
- January 2024: John Reece, an experienced leader in the tech industry, joined WISPR as CEO, bringing over 25 years of management experience to guide the company through its next growth phase.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2016 |
| Headquarters | Batesville, Mississippi |
| Founders | Conor Ferguson, Austin Ratcliffe |
| Revenue | $312K (2023) |
| Industry | Drone Manufacturing |
| Number of Employees | Not specified |
Early History
WISPR Systems began as a small startup focusing on unmanned aircraft systems for telecommunications, thanks to support from Mississippi State’s entrepreneurial network and InnovateMS. Founders Conor Ferguson and Austin Ratcliffe leveraged relationships with key industry figures and local investors to launch the company. The official operations started in 2017, and by 2020, WISPR expanded its focus to include various commercial UAS markets, offering robust and versatile drones for diverse industry needs.
Company Profile and Achievements
WISPR Systems has built a reputation on developing durable and reliable drones equipped with custom payload options. The company's journey highlights several significant milestones:
- 2018-2020: Transitioned from telecommunications-focused drones to a broad range of commercial applications, enhancing market share and industry influence.
- 2020: Expanded into new markets amid the COVID-19 pandemic, opening up services to sectors like infrastructure inspection and environmental monitoring.
- 2023: Released the Ranger Pro, which improved surveying efficiency and data collection capabilities, thus expanding its client base in the construction and infrastructure sectors.
- 2024: Introduced the innovative SkyScout drone, acclaimed for its portability and advanced technologies, securing a partnership with YellowScan for enhanced data solutions.
Current Operations and Market Position
WISPR Systems continues to innovate with its product lines, focusing on user-friendly, high-performance drones. The SkyScout and Ranger Pro stand out in their portfolio, offering unmatched flexibility and precision in data gathering. The firm holds a competitive edge through enhancements in drone technology with strategic collaborations, like that with YellowScan, bolstering its position in the aerial data collection market. WISPR's manufacturing and R&D presence in Mississippi supports its competitive pricing and strong regional influence.
Conclusion
WISPR Systems has secured a significant role in the rapidly growing drone industry by consistently delivering robust, American-made solutions for commercial applications. The company's focus on integrating advanced technology, like YellowScan’s LiDAR, into its systems promises continued innovation. With strategic leadership and ongoing product enhancements, WISPR is poised for expansion in both existing and new markets, affirming its status as a key player in drone manufacturing.