Autonomous systems are rapidly reshaping industries; from defence and aerospace to rail, logistics, energy, and healthcare.  But how do we verify, validate, and trust systems that make decisions independently?

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion which will explore the practical challenges of test and evaluation (T&E) in autonomous systems.

Through a systems engineering lens, our panelists will unpack:

• How autonomy is implemented in real-world systems across sectors
• The challenges and strategies in planning, conducting, and assuring credible T&E for autonomous systems
• The future outlook for verification and validation of autonomous systems

Whether you work directly with autonomous platforms or are simply autonomous systems-curious, this session will offer insights and cautionary tales to apply in your own engineering contexts.

By attending this session, participants will:

• Discover how autonomous systems are currently deployed across industries
• Understand key challenges in testing and evaluating autonomous technologies
• Learn strategies to manage uncertainty in autonomous system operations
• Gain insights into the evolving mindset and skills needed for future autonomy assurance.

5.30 pm AEST – Presentation begins
6.30 pm AEST – Presentation concludes

5.00 pm AEST – Guest arrival & networking
5.30 pm AEST – Presentation begins
6.30 pm AEST – Presentation concludes networking and light catering
7:00 pm AEST – Event concludes

Registration Link 

Ben is an experienced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) pilot and instructor. He presently works with Toll Aviation, where he leverages UAV technology to solve real-world challenges for both civilian and defence aviation customers, with a particular focus on enterprise drone operations, technical integration, and training.

He has contributed to several projects from concept to completion, including active involvement in Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operational development, where he provided practical test data, operational feedback, and risk assessments to support approvals processes. He has also overseen improvements in operational compliance, helping reduce breaches against aviation safety and organisational standards through training, standardisation, and technical oversight.

Ben has many years of experience leading UAV training exercises for clients across defence, mining, energy, construction, agriculture, and forestry. His training has included scenario-based drills and real-world simulation activities, ensuring clients are prepared for operational demands while improving safety, efficiency, and mission success rates.

Previously, Ben was a Ground Support Operator at Wing, where he managed a fleet of 100+ drones for delivery operations. He supported more than 2,000 deliveries per week across Logan City Council, ensuring operational safety, regulatory compliance, and fleet readiness in one of the world’s first large-scale drone delivery services. Ben is currently completing a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electronic & UAV Engineering at Griffith University.

Adam Henrichs is a defence technology leader with deep expertise in command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) systems, advanced development, and autonomous capabilities. He is currently Director of Advanced Development at Rheinmetall Defence Australia, where he leads innovation and capability exploration across emerging technologies.

Adam brings more than a decade of experience spanning systems engineering, architecture, and integration roles within both industry and defence programs. At Rheinmetall, he has served as C4ISREW System Architect and C4I Lead delivering next-generation capabilities. He has also contributed as a C4I Engineering Consultant across major programs including LAND 400 and AIR 6500, and previously held senior engineering and integration roles at Boeing Defence Australia, working on JP2072 and other critical defence communications projects.

With a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering from QUT, Adam combines strong technical foundations with strategic insight into complex, networked defence environments. His career has consistently focused on delivering mission-ready solutions that enhance operational effectiveness, from systems integration to advanced concept development.