Robert Cheek is the COO at UVify, sponsor of this year’s drone show at LDI 2025, Monday, December 8 at 6:15pm outside of the LVCC West Hall.
He also presented the session, Expanding Creative Horizons: How UVify's IFO Swarm Drone is Transforming Entertainment, sharing his insights on drone technology.
Live Design: Can you describe yourself in less than 50 words?
Robert Cheek: As COO of UVify, I am a pioneering leader in drone, AI, and robotics innovation. Under my direction, UVify’s award-winning IFO platform I have redefined drone shows and cyberphysical content delivery worldwide. At LDI 2025, I bring insights on how cutting-edge aerial technology is transforming entertainment and immersive experiences.
LD: Please give a brief overview of your training/education/career path.
RC: Educated at Cambridge, Stanford, UF, and the Helsinki School of Economics, I helped launch the first League of Legends tournament and advanced Hyundai’s acquisition of Boston Dynamics. I also pioneered the concept of Cyberphysical Content at Yujin Robot, later realizing it at UVify through the IFO—the world’s leading swarm drone platform.
LD: Please describe your most recent project.
RC: My most recent project, KPop Demon Hunters, is the most viral and widely viewed drone show in history. It exemplifies Cyberphysical Content—the seamless fusion of digital storytelling and physical performance—using UVify’s IFO platform to transform the sky into a living canvas that bridges entertainment, technology, and emotion.
LD: What are you teaching at LDI and who is your target audience?
RC: At LDI, I taught about how companies and creators can instantly integrate drone shows using UVify’s IFO platform and Fleet Activation Bank (FAB) rental system. The session targets production professionals, event designers, and creative agencies—showing how UVify’s global network has removed traditional barriers, empowering anyone to deliver large-scale shows with a minimum upfront cost.
LD: What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
RC: My greatest challenge has been introducing breakthrough technologies and building entirely new industries around them. My work demands not only innovation but also vision—identifying and aligning with other forward thinkers who can see where the world is heading and have the courage to help shape that future.
LD: What is your advice for people just getting into the industry?
RC: I advise those entering the industry to be cautious of anyone promising a quick or easy path to success. I emphasize the importance of verifying experience—ask to see portfolios, proven success cases, client references, and real flight hours. With the market now crowded by self-proclaimed “experts” and “consultants,” I believe there’s no substitute for partnering with those who have genuine credentials, capabilities, and a track record of delivering results.