CEO and Founder, Linebird
Linebird uses unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to make contact with live power lines.
Linebird is a natural extension of founder Michael Beiro’s lifelong passion. Interested in robotics and automation since he was young, Michael studied mechanical engineering at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Advisers at VCU helped connect Beiro with local professionals who could identify engineering-related problems he could tackle. These industry experts encouraged Michael to work on further adapting drone technology for power line monitoring.
Encouraged by the results of his independent studies work, Michael decided to take the entrepreneur’s leap by founding Linebird in 2019. Since then, the proof of concept prototype has been proven in lab environments, presented at industry workshops, and improved over several iterations.
To develop Linebird’s innovative system, Beiro partnered with Chase Coble and David Schul, co-founders of RVA Aerial, to utilize their skills and expertise in UAS technology. They have been using drones for technical purposes, including photogrammetric structural mapping and modeling, utility storm response, and thermographic inspections for over five years. Lee Corbin, an ex-transmission and helicopter lineman, also joined the team soon after, bringing with him vast experience and knowledge in the utility world and UAS fleet management.
The Linebird team represents decades of diverse industry experience in the energy, engineering, and UAS fields.
Q&A
What did you study in college?
I studied Mechanical Engineering in college.
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is a tough one, lots of good cooks in my family. Paella is definitely one of my favorites.
Where is the place you want to visit the most?
I’ve been to Carnota in Spain before (my family and last name are from there) but I really want to go back. My wife and I really want to visit Paris and the Scottish Highlands too.
If you had a time machine, would you go back in time or visit the future?
Tough question, but probably the future.
What’s the one piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to start a company?
Tap into good mentor networks and be coachable!
