Joydeep Acharya
Senior Manager
Hitachi America
Joydeep Acharya is a Senior Manager in Silicon Valley Research Center for Hitachi America R&D Division. He has over 15 years of experience in architecting and developing end-to-end digital transformation solutions encompassing edge compute, ML/AI and cloud based application design and development. In his current role, he is responsible for developing innovative R&D solutions and customer co-creation for smart manufacturing and transportation. He holds 18 U.S. patents and has authored 25 technical publications. He co-authored a book on 3GPP LTE Heterogeneous Networks published by John Wiley. He received his PhD in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University.
Session(s):
Everything in the Factory is Smart & Autonomous Now–That’s Why 5G is Critical | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Reyk Alexander Knuhtsen
Analyst
SemiAnalysis
Reyk is the leading analyst on robotics and automation at SemiAnalysis. He covers a wide range of form factors -- from industrial robots to humanoids -- providing insights on their respective supply chains, bottlenecks, risks, and innovations.
Session(s):
The Politics of Automation: Policies That Will Define the Future of Work | Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Kence Anderson
CEO & Founder
Amesa
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As the CEO and Founder of Amesa, Kence is a pioneering autonomous AI leveraging his deep expertise in the industrial sector. With a background in mechanical engineering and a passion for teaching, Kence has authored the book "Designing Autonomous AI" along with having developed courses for the University of Washington and the Association for Advancing Automation.
Previously the Director of Autonomous AI Adoption at Microsoft and the lead customer engineer for Bonsai (acquired by Microsoft), Anderson has spearheaded the creation of over 200 autonomous AI systems for commercial applications. Collaborating with industry giants such as PepsiCo, Bell Flight, BP, Shell, Bayer, Delta Airlines and others, Anderson’s impact is evident in projects across manufacturing.
Anderson’s unparalleled talent lies in integrating human expertise with AI principles, exemplified by the innovative Amesa platform. Motivated by the desire to empower the 100M industry machine engineers, Anderson and the Amesa team developed a groundbreaking no-code production-ready AI Agent Builder tool kit. This enables operators and engineers to build “Intelligent Agents” that the engineer can teach to solve nuanced and real-world problems that supersede the current capabilities of manufacturing floor automation.
Through Anderson’s Machine Teaching Methodology, detailed in his book, a new paradigm emerges, highlighting the abilities of AI to upskill workers and preserve legacy knowledge and expertise. #TheKingofMachineTeaching
Session(s):
AI Everywhere: How Intelligent Systems Are Reshaping Industrial Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Darcy Bachert
CEO
Prolucid Technologies
Darcy Bachert is the Founder and CEO of Prolucid, a software engineering firm that specializes in custom software design, development, and maintenance for customers in medical, nuclear, and other regulated industries. Over the past 17 years Darcy has grown Prolucid to a team of 23, supporting with innovative projects and companies across the world in successfully bringing their applications and devices to market.
Bachert graduated from Western University with a degree in Software Engineering. In addition to his degree, he holds a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation from Professional Engineers Ontario, representing high standards of engineering excellence, skills and experience, and professionalism.
Session(s):
The State of the Automation Industry–Leadership Roundtable | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 12:30 PM (EDT)
Kevin Barker
President
Beckhoff Automation LLC
Kevin Barker is president of Beckhoff Automation LLC where he oversees all U.S. operations of the global leader in PC-based automation. Since assuming his leadership position in 2019, Barker has strategically driven rapid development in all areas at Beckhoff USA, including demand generation, customer support, and business infrastructure. Since Kevin has Joined, Beckhoff has exceeded 25% year over year organic growth. Under Barker’s leadership, Beckhoff USA has more than doubled in size, and dramatically diversified its talented team.
A seasoned presenter, thought leader, and technologist, Barker is a driving force behind emerging concepts already shaping the future of the industry. Barker is a noted advocate for modern machine control paradigms, adaptive automation, artificial intelligence, advanced mechatronics, and open technology standards.
Session(s):
The State of the Automation Industry–Leadership Roundtable | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 12:30 PM (EDT)
Marina Bill
Global Head of Marketing & Sales and Product Line Digital & Software, Robot
ABB
Marina Bill is the Global Sales & Commercial Operations Manager and Manager of the Product Line Software and Digital for ABB’s Robotics division. She has held this role since 2019.
Since joining ABB in 1997, she has held various Product Management, Sales and Marketing, Commercial Operations, and General Management positions in Robotics and Motion, Power Generation, Grid Automation, and Network Management.
As of 2020, she is a board member of PIAB AB, a Swedish automation company specialized on gripping, lifting and moving solutions and since 2023, she is a board member of the publicly listed Swiss company Huber + Suhner, who offers products and services for electrical and optical connectivity needs.
Marina is part of the Executive board of the IFR (International Federation of Robotics) since 2020 and was the President of the association in 2022-2024.
Marina served as the first president of ADRA, an AI, Data, and Robotics partnership in digital, industry, and space in Horizon Europe from 2021 – 2023.
Marina has lived and worked in Sweden, the UK, Germany and the Philippines. She is currently based in Zurich, Switzerland.
Marina holds a master’s degree in industrial engineering and management, specializing in thermodynamics from the Royal institute of Technology in Stockholm. She is a graduate of the International Institute for Management Development’s (IMD) Senior Leadership Development Program in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Session(s):
The Robotics Executive Roundtable: The Trends & Technologies Driving the Industry | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Amir Bousani
Co-Founder and CEO
RGo Robotics
Amir Bousani has over 20 years of management experience in global technology companies, delivering dozens of successful products to market in various industries. Prior to founding RGo Robotics Amir managed Intel’s RealSense Advanced Technologies Group, delivering the leading 3D vision products for robotics.
Amir's experience spans innovative industries - including robotics, semiconductor and consumer product technology. He is a skilled leader of multi-disciplinary product design teams including SW, HW, UI, UX and applications with deep competencies in camera system design, ASIC architecture, AR, VR, Robotics, 3D cameras, communication protocols and computer vision.technologies.
Session(s):
Intelligent Autonomy | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Jeff Burnstein
President
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Jeff Burnstein is President of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), the world’s leading robotics & automation trade group, representing over 1300 global companies involved in robotics, artificial intelligence, machine vision, motion control and related automation technologies. Burnstein joined the association in 1983 and has held a variety of senior positions, culminating in his promotion to President in 2007. He is a frequent commentator in the media, often discusses automation issues with policy makers, and regularly speaks at global conferences on issues such as global automation trends, the impact of automation on jobs and the future of automation beyond the factory floor. Burnstein also serves on the Executive Board of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). In 2023 he received the Engelberger Award for Leadership, considered the “Nobel Prize of Robotics.”
Session(s):
The Politics of Automation: Policies That Will Define the Future of Work | Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Corwin Carson
Chief Executive Officer
Acieta
Corwin Carson is a proven industrial automation executive known for building high-performing teams, scaling businesses, and driving transformational growth in complex, project-based environments. With a strong commercial foundation and a track record of operational turnaround, he brings a systems-driven approach to value creation across sales, engineering, and delivery.
Corwin currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Acieta, a leading robotics system integration company backed by Angeles Equity Partners. He initially joined the platform as a Board Member, helping shape strategy and direction, before being recruited into an operating role. Since then, he has led the transformation of a multi-site automation business, driving significant revenue growth, improving margins through pricing and execution discipline, and integrating multiple acquired companies into a unified commercial and operational model.
Prior to Acieta, Corwin served as CEO of United Robotics Group of America and as President of QComp Automation Technologies, where he accelerated growth and expanded capabilities in advanced automation. Earlier in his career, he held executive leadership roles at JR Automation, where he helped scale a major division during a period of rapid global expansion, and served as Chief Revenue Officer at inVia Robotics, contributing to the commercialization of next-generation e-commerce automation solutions.
Corwin also held senior leadership roles with Rethink Robotics and Keyence Corporation, where he spent over a decade developing a deep foundation in industrial automation, sales leadership, and market development. Across these roles, he built a reputation for turning underperforming regions and business units into high-growth, market-leading organizations.
He is widely recognized as a thought leader in industrial automation, frequently speaking on topics such as digital innovation, operational excellence, and the role of robotics in modern manufacturing.
Corwin holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Georgia and was a member of Alpha Tau Omega.
Outside of work, he is based in Los Angeles and enjoys sailing, golf, tennis, cycling, and real estate investing. He is also actively involved in ministry leadership and nonprofit work, serving his local community and broader causes.
Session(s):
Getting Started With Automation: Lessons from System Integrators | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Mike Cicco
President and CEO
FANUC America
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Mike Cicco is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FANUC America Corporation. As President and CEO, Cicco has responsibility for all the company’s operations in North and South America. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of FANUC CORPORATION (Japan).
Cicco joined FANUC in 1999 and has held a variety of management positions over the years including software/controls manager and district sales manager at the company’s Southern California facility. In 2005, Cicco transferred to FANUC’s headquarters in Rochester Hills, MI to take on the role of national account manager of the company’s Authorized System Integrator sales group. As his career progressed, he was named general manager of several robot division groups including Material Handling Engineering, Authorized System Integrator sales, and Domestic Automotive/Michigan Regional sales. In 2015, Cicco was promoted to vice president of FANUC’s North and South American sales and execution. In April 2016, Cicco was named President and CEO.
Before joining FANUC, Cicco served as lead automation engineer for Northrop Grumman in the Automation and Information Systems group.
Cicco holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA. In addition, he is First Vice Chairman of the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT).
Session(s):
The State of the Automation Industry–Leadership Roundtable | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 12:30 PM (EDT)
Alex Coleman
Market Research Analyst
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Alex Coleman is A3’s Market Research Analyst. With a background in finance and data analytics, he is focused on providing A3’s members with useful, quantitative research.
Session(s):
The Automation Market: The Statistics & Trends You Should Be Watching | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 1:00 PM (EDT)
Luke Corbeth
Head of R&D Sales
Cypher Robotics
Luke Corbeth is the Head of R&D Sales at Cypher Robotics, a company developing drone and AMR-based systems for autonomous inventory cycle counting in warehouses and factories. With a background in emerging technologies and business strategy, Luke helps organizations adopt scalable automation solutions that improve inventory accuracy, operational efficiency, and real-time visibility.
At Cypher, he leads the go-to-market efforts for advanced R&D initiatives, working closely with clients to integrate cutting-edge robotics with enterprise systems. His work focuses on enabling practical deployments of autonomous technologies, supported by robust connectivity infrastructure—particularly private 5G networks that are critical for real-time data transfer and safe operation at scale.
Session(s):
Everything in the Factory is Smart & Autonomous Now–That’s Why 5G is Critical | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Christi DeCuir
Senior Director, Robotic Strategic Alliances
NVIDIA
Christi DeCuir is Senior Director of NVIDIA's Robotic Strategic Alliances, responsible for integrating NVIDIA's AI and simulation technologies into the robotics ecosystem through strategic partnerships.
Christi has been with NVIDIA for eight years, with responsibilities from the cloud to the edge. She brings over 20 years of experience in sales, business development, product engineering, operations, and customer success to NVIDIA. She holds a BS in engineering from Missouri's University of Science and Technology, an MS in information management, and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.
Session(s):
AI Everywhere: How Intelligent Systems Are Reshaping Industrial Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Jan Diekmann
Head of Business Development, Enterprise 5G, Manufacturing
Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions
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Jan Diekmann is Head of Business Development, Enterprise 5G, Manufacturing in Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Technologies making the shift to 5G for industries happen. Jan’s current focus is on manufacturing and cargo ports. Jan has been working in various fields and positions over the last 25+ years in Ericsson, including services, portfolio management, media, open innovation, digital advertising and industry digitalization. Jan holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Dortmund Germany.
Session(s):
Everything in the Factory is Smart & Autonomous Now–That’s Why 5G is Critical | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Dianne Eldridge
AI Go-to-Market Lead, Power & Energy
Google
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Most AI executives have never set foot on a plant floor. Dianne Eldridge spent 20 years on them.
That's the gap she bridges—the distance between an industrial control room and a hyperscale data center, between an operations manager's reality and a Silicon Valley pitch deck. After two decades at industrial giants Emerson and Schneider Electric, she crossed into Big Tech, spending five years leading Industrial AI go-to-market strategy at AWS before joining Google as AI Go-To-Market Lead for Power & Energy—helping the sector's biggest players figure out what AI actually means for their operations, their margins, and their workforce.
Her credibility is institutional: AI Technology Strategy Board member for A3 (Association for Advancing Automation), Advisory Board Chair for Women's Energy Network Houston, and "50 Women to Watch For Boards" finalist. Her perspective is global: bi-cultural, fluent in Mandarin, with operations experience spanning the U.S., China, Italy, Singapore, and Canada.
From TEDx to AWS re:Invent to the World Bank AI Roundtable, Dianne commands the stage with the energy and authority that comes from actually knowing how things work. She speaks fluent Industrial and fluent AI—and brings both to every conversation about where heavy industry and artificial intelligence collide.
Session(s):
AI Everywhere: How Intelligent Systems Are Reshaping Industrial Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Joseph Gemma
Engelberger Robotics Award Recipient; Advisory Board, Integrion Automation
Mr. Joe Gemma has 35 plus years of experience working in the automation industry. Early in his career, he spent 12 years working for a System Integrator and then 20+ years working for Robotics OEM’s. Strongly supporting the industry by participating on the RIA Board of Directors and as past Chair, as well as severing on several committees. He currently serves on the Technology Sector Board of the Association for Advancing Automation. He has served on the Board of the IFR and past President for International Federation of Robotics. At Wauseon Machine, Joe is responsible for the front end of the business as the (CRO) Chief Revenue Officer. Previously he spent 5 plus years as the CEO/Chief Regional Officer for KUKA Robotics Division - Americas. Spending 18 years at Stäubli, Mr. Gemma was CEO the Stäubli Group North America. Until 1997, he worked for the US enterprises, Advanced Technology Systems, Crellin Technologies and Corner & Lada, working in engineering, project management, business development and sales management.
Mr. Gemma received the recognition from Association for Advancing Automation (A3) as the 2024 Joseph F. Engelberger Award recipient for leadership and currently serves on various committees of the A3, which covers the North American automation industry. Joe is committed to working to get broader visibility of the automation industry in general.
Session(s):
Getting Started With Automation: Lessons from System Integrators | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Francois Giguere
Chief Technology Officer
Vention
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Francois is Vention’s Chief Technology Officer, leading the company's technology strategy across automation, software, robotics, applications, and R&D. His role builds upon his successful tenure as the Head of Automation where he played a pivotal role in shaping Vention's trajectory. François began his journey at General Electric, as a Power Electronics Designer, crafting sophisticated converters for solid-state lighting. His career path then led him into automation, showcasing his proficiency in embedded system design, real-time control, power electronics, and software development. Francois holds a Bachelor of Engineering from McGill University, a Master of Engineering from Queen’s University, and is Green Belt Certified from Six Sigma Global Institut
Session(s):
Accelerate AI-powered Automation: Vention's Journey with NVIDIA | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 2:00 PM
Wolfgang Hackenberg
CEO and Co-Founder
SYNAOS
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Dr. Wolfgang Hackenberg is CEO and co-founder of SYNAOS, an intralogistics software company based in Hannover, Germany. He studied in Cologne and Beijing, earning his doctorate in logistics monitoring from the Clausthal Technical University. Hackenberg spent ten years at Volkswagen, where he most recently led the shopfloor IT and established the Smart Production Lab. At SYNAOS, he is responsible for the strategic direction and development of the company.
Session(s):
Intelligent Autonomy | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Deon Hamilton
Sr. Manager of Strategic Projects
Siemens
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Deon Hamilton is a Senior Manager of Strategic Projects at Siemens US. From Detroit, Michigan, Deon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Engineering Science from Michigan State University. With nearly 20 years of industry experience, he has honed his expertise in understanding the voice of the customer and aligning their needs with Siemens' innovative solutions. Currently, Deon manages strategic projects across various Siemens businesses, enhancing their market leadership in the US. He is eager to share his insights on how Siemens is shaping its portfolio to help manufacturers achieve digital transformation more easily and quickly than ever before.
Session(s):
The Digital Advantage: How Siemens Xcelerator is Empowering Small and Medium Businesses to Thrive | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Daniel Harr
CEO
Delta Systems & Automation
Daniel Harr is the Chief Executive Officer of Delta Systems & Automation, bringing over 25 years of industry experience, including more than a decade in leadership roles at Delta Systems. Since joining the company 12 years ago, he has held progressive positions across purchasing and operations, eventually serving as General Manager before being appointed CEO.
Delta Systems & Automation, headquartered in Northwest Arkansas, is a leading provider of automated flow wrapping solutions. The company operates out of an 80,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that integrates technical support, project management, engineering, CNC machining, finishing, assembly, and customer care. With advanced 3D design and modeling capabilities, Delta delivers comprehensive system solutions, rapid turnaround on parts, and ongoing innovation through dedicated R&D efforts.
Daniel is also a frequent presenter at automation industry conferences, where he shares insights on operational efficiency, emerging technologies, and the evolving role of automation in the industry.
Session(s):
Innovate to Dominate: Real Word Strategies from U.S. Manufacturing Excellence | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 3:00 PM (EDT)
Brian Heater
Managing Editor
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Brian Heater is A3’s Managing Editor. During his 20+ year career in technology journalism, he has worked as Hardware Editor at TechCrunch, Managing Editor at Tech Times, and Director of Media at Engadget. He is the host of the RiYL podcast and lives in New York’s Hudson Valley with his two rabbits, June and Flash.
Session(s):
Humanoid Robots: Hype, Reality, & What’s Next | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 1:00 PM (EDT)AI Everywhere: How Intelligent Systems Are Reshaping Industrial Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Robert Huschka
Vice President of Education Strategies
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Robert Huschka is the Vice President of Education Strategies at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), where he leads the development of educational programs and identifies emerging technology trends to integrate into A3's offerings. Before joining A3 in January 2018, Huschka spent 18 years at the Detroit Free Press, including serving as Executive Editor, where he was recognized for his expertise in audience growth, community building, and content strategy. He holds a degree from the University of North Dakota.
Session(s):
The State of the Automation Industry–Leadership Roundtable | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 12:30 PM (EDT)The Robotics Executive Roundtable: The Trends & Technologies Driving the Industry | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Balaji Iyer
Industry Leader, Americas Discrete Manufacturing
Microsoft Corporation
Balaji Iyer leads Microsoft’s Americas discrete manufacturing industry team empowering customers derive value across the end-to-end value chain from design to service and order to cash using Microsoft and Partner Solutions. Prior to joining Microsoft, Balaji was a Partner at McKinsey & Company, where he was a part of the Industrials sector leadership, served clients across North America, Asia, and Europe on operations, transformations, strategy & business building. Over the years, he has cultivated a track record of driving value creation in industrial companies and is a firm believer in the synergy of people and technology to create value simultaneously through large scale impactful transformations and meaningful, sustainable changes on the ground.
Session(s):
Innovate to Dominate: Real Word Strategies from U.S. Manufacturing Excellence | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 3:00 PM (EDT)
Scott Klososky
Founding Partner
Future Point of View
- Founding Partner at Future Point of View LLC
- Successful digital entrepreneur with multiple large exits
- Author of Did God Create the Internet?, The Velocity Manifesto, Enterprise Social Technology, and Managing with Social Technology
- Business Consultant to Fortune 500 corporations, universities & non-profits
- Client list includes AICPA, Cisco, IBM, John Deere, eBay, The Hartford, Marriott, Chick-fil-A, ASIS, Key Bank, Accenture
Session(s):
The Humalogy Future: Using AI to Amplify Your Team Capabilities | Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Paul Kramer
Vice President of Sales
JR Automation
Paul Kramer is Vice President of Sales at JR Automation, with responsibilities for the North America region. With extensive manufacturing and automation experience and expertise, Paul has held roles and led teams in product development and management, and plant management domestically and internationally prior to his current role leading business development, account management, and sales activities at JR Automation. Paul holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University, and has a robust skill set that includes Manufacturing Operations Management, 5S, Sales, Continuous Improvement, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA.) He has a passion for continuous learning and building life-time team and customer relationships.
Session(s):
Getting Started With Automation: Lessons from System Integrators | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Torsten Kroeger
Chief Science Officer
Intrinsic
Prof. Dr. Torsten Kroeger is the Chief Science Officer at Intrinsic. He's a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record in robotics and AI software innovation, having founded and successfully exited Reflexxes GmbH and Loom Vision GmbH. His extensive experience includes leading a Robotics Software Division at Google and a professorship at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. Prof. Kroeger's industry expertise is underscored by his consulting roles with major players like Volkswagen AG, KUKA, and Google, Inc. He holds numerous prestigious awards, including the 2022 IEEE RAS George Saridis Leadership Award, and is a member of the 2023 IEEE Fellow class.
Session(s):
The Robotics Executive Roundtable: The Trends & Technologies Driving the Industry | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Jim Leonard
Vice President Sales
Harmonic Drive
Jim Leonard, Vice President of Sales, Harmonic Drive LLC. Bachelor of Science, Ceramic Engineering, thirty-eight years’ experience in the electromechanical servo drive train industry.
Session(s):
The Synergy Between Cross Roller Bearing Technology and High-Performance Strain Wave Gear Reduction | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 3:15 PM (EDT)
Jimmy Li
Research Scientist
Vention
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Jimmy Li is a research scientist at Vention, where he develops and applies advanced AI technologies to drive innovation in industrial automation. With a strong academic background from McGill University and deep expertise in robotics, computer vision, and machine learning, Jimmy plays a key role in shaping intelligent automation solutions. Prior to joining Vention, he held a research position at Samsung Research, where he worked on advanced robotic systems and AI applications. His work bridges theoretical research and real-world impact, contributing today to Vention’s mission of democratizing industrial automation. Jimmy holds a Bachelor of Arts & Science and a PhD in robotics from McGill University.
Session(s):
Accelerate AI-powered Automation: Vention's Journey with NVIDIA | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 2:00 PM
Chris Liu
Product Portfolio Manager, Industrial Edge
Siemens Industry, Inc
Chris Liu is the US Product Portfolio Manager for Siemens Edge computing platform Industrial Edge. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University with years of industry experience in engineering, manufacturing, and product management. Chris focuses on leveraging Industrial Edge to help customers make practical use of their machine and plant data to enhance efficiency, save resources, and improve quality.
Session(s):
Unlocking Shopfloor Potential: AI-Powered Continuous Improvement | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Jyoti Malhotra
Senior MEP Leadership
NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership
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Dr. Jyoti K. Malhotra currently serves as the Division Chief for National Programs with the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). She is a member of NIST MEP’s senior leadership team, responsible for strategic planning, operations, and building partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders such as NIST labs, federal and state agencies, industry trade groups, educational institutions, Manufacturing USA institutes, nonprofits, and other organizations.
The NIST MEP National Programs Division is the primary interface with the MEP National Network, helping develop and deploy products, technology innovations, and business services for small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs). The division conducts industry analyses for emerging markets and technologies to determine which services can advance SMMs to be competitive in the global market.
Dr. Malhotra provides direction for national initiatives, including implementation of the MEP National Network 2023-2027 Strategic Plan as it relates to technology innovation for U.S. manufacturers. The diverse partnerships developed by this division support the strategic plan’s supply chain and workforce goals. Most recently, she was recognized with the prestigious NIST George Uriano Award for building new partnerships with other agencies and industry-led consortia.
Dr. Malhotra has vast experience in interdisciplinary materials and devices research, product development, manufacturing, and commercialization. Her work includes applications in semiconductor, electronics packaging, energy storage, microelectromechanical systems, flexible printed electronics, LED lighting and medical devices. She is an inventor with multiple U.S. patents and many scientific publications.
Dr. Malhotra began her graduate work at the University of Hull (United Kingdom). She received her doctorate from the Missouri University of Science and Technology and her post-doctorate from the Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory.
Session(s):
Grow, Compete, and Get More Work Through Partnership with NIST MEP | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 4:15 PM (EDT)
André Marino
Senior Vice President Industrial Automation North America
Schneider Electric
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André Marino is Senior Vice President Industrial Automation North America, and a member of the Global Executive Leadership Team at Schneider Electric.
André leads the industrial automation business in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, leveraging his over two decades of industrial technology expertise to drive efficiency and productivity for Schneider Electric customers. His passion is driving industrial resilience and agility while reducing the environmental impact of the sector through digital and automation innovation.
Throughout his career with Schneider Electric, André has held several pivotal roles in software, industrial automation, and energy management. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President, Digital Buildings, where he led key business transformations and acquisitions, both globally and locally. Prior to that, Andréa was Global Vice President of Industrial Automation. In this role, he spearheaded end user and software go-to-market efforts worldwide. Earlier, André led the Schneider Electric Industrial Automation and Software Hub in Brazil.
Before joining Schneider Electric, André co-founded Lar Plásticos, a market leader in the circular economy in Brazil, where he continues to serve as a board member. His career in IoT (Internet of Things) began with SoftBrasil, and he later co-founded Envisia Gerenciamento de Ativos, an IoT asset management company. André is also a board member of Clockworks Analytics.
André holds a BS in Electronic Engineering, an MBA, and recently completed the Advanced Management Program (AMP) at MIT Sloan School of Management.
His extensive experience and leadership in the field make Andréa a prominent figure and sought after spokesperson in industrial technology.
André resides in Boston, Massachusetts.
Session(s):
Innovate to Dominate: Real Word Strategies from U.S. Manufacturing Excellence | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 3:00 PM (EDT)
Sarah McGhee
Product Owner
Siemens
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Sarah McGhee is a seasoned professional in industrial automation, currently serving as a Product Owner for Siemens SIMATIC AX. In this role, Sarah connects with stakeholders in the US and globally to share the vision behind SIMATIC AX and IT-Like Automation, and to understand the challenges they face in today's environment—challenges that are exacerbated without flexible tools.
Sarah brings expertise from her previous roles in Siemens' Process Automation and Factory Automation divisions, where she worked in various product marketing and product management positions. These roles focused on introducing IT-minded products and tools to the automation industry.
In this panel session, Sarah will share her insights on how IT-driven automation is revolutionizing manufacturing and addressing worker readiness issues. Her expertise and forward-thinking approach make her a key voice in the conversation on transforming manufacturing with IT-driven automation.
Session(s):
Revolutionizing Manufacturing with IT-Driven Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 1:45 PM (EDT)
Alan Minney
Sr. Director Global Strategic Partnerships, Enterprise Wireless Solutions.
Ericsson
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Alan Minney leads 5G innovation and new business development through strategic partnerships for Ericsson’s Enterprise Wireless Solutions organization. He has expertise in driving digital transformation, collaborative innovation, and co-development strategies that deliver business value. He works closely with global partners, and customers to utilize dedicated 5G connectivity solutions that enable new customer experiences, build engagement, and improve business outcomes.
Session(s):
Everything in the Factory is Smart & Autonomous Now–That’s Why 5G is Critical | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Steve Minniear
Director, Manufacturing Engineering
BorgWarner
With more than 39 years of experience in the Automotive Manufacturing industry with BorgWarner, Steve is a seasoned leader in operations, quality and global production strategies. Since 2019, he has been a Director of Manufacturing Engineering, currently supporting the industrialization and launch of a turbine generator at a greenfield site in North Carolina.
Previously, Steve held key leadership roles at BorgWarner, including Plant Manager and Director NA Operations, and Director NA Quality. His expertise in manufacturing efficiency, quality assurance, and team leadership has been instrumental in driving the success of diverse initiatives in global manufacturing environments.
Session(s):
Unlocking Shopfloor Potential: AI-Powered Continuous Improvement | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Rashmi Misra
A3 AI Tech Strategy Board Chair
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Dr Rashmi Misra is the Chief AI Officer for Analog Devices executing an AI strategy across enterprise, silicon manufacturing and product for the intelligent edge.
Prior to this, Rashmi headed Data and Artificial Intelligence, Business Development, for Microsoft where she led Microsoft’s strategic partnerships in AI including those with OpenAI since 2019, Meta, NVDIA, Mistral, and in Automation and Robotics with Kawasaki, Figure.ai, Wayve, and others.
Working closely with ecosystem partners, as well as customers and engineering teams, Rashmi was responsible for proving leading-edge solutions and partnerships combining AI, Data, mixed reality, Web 3.0 and other emergent technologies at Microsoft.
Rashmi has been at the forefront of intelligent systems for over 20 years, managing network applications, cloud, media, IoT and M2M businesses for HPE where she was the Head of AI Solutions for High Performance Compute solutions.
Rashmi previously led Motorola's worldwide System Integration portfolio and was instrumental in deploying some of the first expert and AI systems on mobile networks. She owns six international patents for intelligent optimisation, automated network health and monetisation of traffic on telecom networks.
Rashmi has a doctorate in Artificial Intelligence on Multi-Agent Reasoning Systems, from Exeter University, UK and an MBA from Warwick University, UK.
Session(s):
The State of the Automation Industry–Leadership Roundtable | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 12:30 PM (EDT)
David Nichols
CEO, Co-founder, Loupe and SASE
Loupe and SASE
David Nichols is the co-founder and CEO of Loupe, an engineering and automation company based in Portland, Oregon. David’s leadership role includes business development and management of projects, accounts, and our engineering team. David also founded SASE, the Society of Software Automation Engineers, an eminent thought leadership organization in software-defined automation. Together, Loupe and SASE, are pioneering the integration of software in machines, driving innovation straight from the plant-floor.
Session(s):
Revolutionizing Manufacturing with IT-Driven Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 1:45 PM (EDT)
Erik Nieves
CEO & Co-Founder
Plus One Robotics
Erik Nieves is co-founder and CEO of Plus One Robotics, a software company developing 3D and AI-powered vision software for robots in logistics automation. Before Plus One, Erik was Technology Director for Yaskawa Motoman Robotics, responsible for the technology roadmap and emerging applications. During his 25+ year tenure at Yaskawa, Erik held a variety of leadership positions in the U.S. and abroad. Erik serves on the board of directors at Robotics Industries Association (RIA) and is a frequent speaker and contributor to public policy on robotics.
Session(s):
The Politics of Automation: Policies That Will Define the Future of Work | Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Yichao Pan
Product Manager, Isaac Manipulator
NVIDIA
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Yichao Pan is a Senior Product Manager at NVIDIA, specializing in Isaac Manipulator, a suite of perception models, CUDA-accelerated libraries, and reference workflows designed for industrial robot manipulators. Before joining NVIDIA, Yichao held product management roles at KUKA, Universal Robots, Energid Technologies, and Rethink Robotics. Yichao earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Notre Dame and a Master of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Session(s):
Accelerate AI-powered Automation: Vention's Journey with NVIDIA | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 2:00 PM
Tracy Perdue
VP Sales
WiBotic
Tracy Perdue is the Vice President of Sales at WiBotic, a leading provider of wireless charging and power optimization solutions for robots. With over 20 years of experience in material handling and warehouse automation, Tracy has played a pivotal role in driving sales growth, developing strategic partnerships, and implementing cutting-edge automation solutions for some of the world’s largest logistics and supply chain organizations. At WiBotic, Tracy is dedicated to empowering organizations to maximize the uptime and performance of their robotic fleets through reliable, flexible power solutions.
Session(s):
Intelligent Autonomy | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Dan Radomski
CEO
Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Tech University
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Dan is currently the CEO of the Lawrence Technological University Centrepolis Accelerator, a program that helps accelerate and scale small manufacturers and innovators of new “hardware” products.
Dan was formerly the Chief Strategy / Operating Officer for the Optimal Group, small businesses and start-ups focused on product development, competitive business strategy, product benchmarking, product development and engineering. At Optimal Dan was responsible for diversifying the company’s business model to evolve into full vehicle development with specialization in electric vehicle development, growing the revenue by $20 million annually, and scaling the business globally to over 350 employees.
In his prior role as Vice President of Industry and Venture Development at NextEnergy, Dan led all market and technology analytic support for the growth of early-stage and mature energy technology firms in areas such as wind, solar, advanced batteries, power electronics, vehicle electrification, smart grid, micro-grid, natural gas, and energy efficiency. This included NextEnergy’s venture and incubator services, supporting the commercialization efforts of 1,000 new developers of advanced energy technologies; and helping over 120 manufacturers diversify into the clean energy supply chain.
Prior to NextEnergy Dan was co-founder of a clean energy technology consultancy with offices in Berkley, MI and Barcelona, Spain. Dan also worked for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers on product development for advanced manufacturing technologies, including lean manufacturing, machining, fabrication, composites, micro and nano-manufacturing.
Dan has served as a developer for DOE / Lawrence Livermore National Lab training curricula that educates product developers / companies with “hardware” based products on how to scale their business. He has been an instructor for DOE / ARPA-E I-Corps Program; and has served as an advisor for the National Governor’s Association’s (NGA) Clean Energy Economic Development Policy Academy program, and as a contributor to DOE’s Industry Peer and Annual Merit Review activities.
Dan was formerly the Chief Strategy / Operating Officer for the Optimal Group, small businesses and start-ups focused on product development, competitive business strategy, product benchmarking, product development and engineering. While at Optimal Dan was responsible for diversifying the company’s business model to evolve into full vehicle development with specialization in electric vehicle development, growing the revenue by $20 million annually, and scaling the business globally to over 350 employees.
In his prior role as Vice President of Industry and Venture Development at NextEnergy, Dan led all market and technology analytic efforts to support the growth of early-stage and mature energy technology firms in areas such as wind, solar, advanced batteries, power electronics, vehicle electrification, smart grid, micro-grid, natural gas, and energy efficiency. This included NextEnergy’s venture and incubator services, supporting the commercialization efforts of approximately 1,000 new developers of advanced energy technologies; and helping over 120 manufacturers successfully diversify into the clean energy supply chain.
Radomski frequently serves as an advisor, judge, mentor and committee member for regional and national accelerators and cleantech competitions, including TechStars Mobility, CleanTech Open, Clean Energy Trust Challenge, Accelerate Michigan Innovation Competition, DTE E-Challenge, Great Lakes Entrepreneur’s Quest, and the Michigan Clean Energy Venture Challenge.
Prior to NextEnergy Dan was co-founder of a clean energy technology consultancy with offices in Berkley, MI and Barcelona, Spain. Dan also worked for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers on product development for advanced manufacturing technologies and disciplines including lean manufacturing, machining, fabrication, composites, micro- and nano-manufacturing.
Dan has served as a developer for DOE / Lawrence Livermore National Lab training curricula that educates product developers / companies with “hardware” based products on how to scale their business. He has been an instructor and curriculum developer for DOE / ARPA-E I-Corps Program; and has served as an advisor for the National Governor’s Association’s (NGA) Clean Energy Economic Development Policy Academy program, and as a contributor to DOE’s Industry Peer and Annual Merit Review activities.
Session(s):
Intelligent Autonomy | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 2:15 PM (EDT)
Bernd Raithel
Director, Product and Solution Development, Factory Automation
Siemens
Bernd Raithel is Director of Product and Solution Development for Siemens Factory Automation in the US responsible for developing products and solution for the global automation market. Bernd has over 20 years of experience with Siemens in Factory Automation, creating products that help improve production and machines. Before joining Siemens, Bernd Raithel worked for nine years in various positions in R&D developing real-time software and in automation, building machines and production lines. Bernd has an engineering degree (Dipl-Ing(FH)) from the TH Nürnberg (Germany).
Session(s):
AI Everywhere: How Intelligent Systems Are Reshaping Industrial Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)Revolutionizing Manufacturing with IT-Driven Automation | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 1:45 PM (EDT)
Julia Astrid Riemenschneider
Business Development
Synapticon GmbH
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Speaker biography coming soon!
Session(s):
The Robotics Executive Roundtable: The Trends & Technologies Driving the Industry | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Craig Salvalaggio
President
Applied Manufacturing Technologies
Craig Salvalaggio has served the role as the Chief Operating Officer of AMT for the past 3 years which has recently allowed him to take on the additional responsibilities as Company President.
He leads overall operations of Applied Manufacturing Technologies along with sales, engineering, and talent management. His technical skills in automation and robotics combined with his leadership ability, led to his current role. His strategic mission is to continue driving growth and diversity of both the systems and services market segments. Craig brings over 20 years of automation experience to AMT and holds a BS in mechanical engineering from Lake Superior State University, a masters in operations management, and an MBA from Kettering University. Craig is actively involved in the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) as a board of director on the Robotics Tech Sector Board, committee member, and the Co-Chair of the Certified Integrator Committee. Craig is regular speaker and panelist on a variety of industry association events providing technical insights into emerging technologies, culture, and talent management.
Session(s):
Getting Started With Automation: Lessons from System Integrators | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Brendan Schulman
VP of Policy & Government Relations
Boston Dynamics, Inc.
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Brendan Schulman is the Vice President of Policy & Government Relations for Boston Dynamics, the global leader in developing and deploying robots equipped with advanced mobility, dexterity, and intelligence. In this role, he collaborates with policymakers and stakeholders on a wide range of policy and ethics issues relating to the integration of beneficial robots into society. Previously, Brendan was a prominent leader on the development of legislation, regulations, and safety technologies concerning uncrewed aircraft systems (commercial drones), playing a key role in solutions at the federal, state and local levels, as well as internationally. A technology advocate, thought-leader, and champion of pragmatic solutions to the concerns that are raised by emerging technologies, Brendan has served on federal and state policy advisory committees, testified in the U.S. Congress and the U.K. House of Commons, lectures frequently, and is often quoted in the media on technology law and policy.
Session(s):
The Politics of Automation: Policies That Will Define the Future of Work | Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT)
Stuart Shepherd
President
Shepherd Solutions, Inc.
Stu Shepherd has over 48-years’ experience transforming manufacturing in the Americas through his leadership in the robotic automation industry.
He graduated in 1983 from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
His past experiences include automation integration roles at General Motors, and sales and top leadership roles at FANUC America Corporation, KUKA AG, Güdel AG, Universal Robots A/S, and consulting with Gain & Co. and HowToRobot.com.
He is the Co-Founder and President of Shepherd Solutions, Inc. Based in Rochester, Michigan, Stu provides clients with valuable advisory and consulting services focused on the creation and growth of new business development for automation OEMs and integrators, plus for the planning and implementing robotic automation for end-users.
Stu is a Past Chairperson at both the Robotic Industries Association (now known as the A3 Robotics Tech Strategy Board) and Association for Advancing Automation (A3), current A3 Robotics Tech Strategy Board Member, and R15.05/R15.08/SEC/SDC/US-TAG-299 Robot Safety Committees Member (includes standards development for humanoid dynamic stability and interoperability). Also, an American Welding Society (AWS) member serving on the D16 Robotic and Automatic Welding Committee.
Lastly, Stu has been internationally recognized for his contributions to the robotics automation industry as the 2025 recipient of the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership.
Session(s):
Getting Started With Automation: Lessons from System Integrators | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Alex Shikany
Executive Vice President
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
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Alex Shikany is the Executive Vice President of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), the leading trade association for robotics, vision and imaging, motion control, and artificial intelligence. In this role, he oversees A3’s internal operations, serves as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, and leads strategic initiatives to enhance member value and industry impact. Since joining A3 in 2012, Alex has been instrumental in driving growth, including the rebranding that unified four organizations under the A3 umbrella and expanding membership to over 1,300 companies worldwide. A recognized thought leader and sought-after speaker, Alex is passionate about advancing the global adoption of automation technologies. He holds an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Michigan State University and brings over a decade of experience in market strategy, brand development, and industry leadership to his role.
Session(s):
The Automation Market: The Statistics & Trends You Should Be Watching | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 1:00 PM (EDT)
Sreedhar Sistu
VP, Artificial Intelligence
Schneider Electric
Sreedhar Sistu is the Vice President, Artificial Intelligence at Schneider Electric. He is a senior software product executive and leader with extensive experience in AI strategy and deployment at Scale, product strategy and growth, portfolio planning, cloud architecture, global teams and program management.
Sreedhar is currently working on applying Artificial Intelligence to address energy management, industrial automation and sustainability at scale leveraging a comprehensive platform approach. Responsibilities include end-to-end ownership of AI Offers, strategic planning, working with key customers and other stakeholders to define product roadmap, collaborating with solutions and technology teams to deliver products that meet and exceed these needs, defining pricing, packaging and go-to-market messaging for these products, managing internal and external partner interactions for commercial success.
Sreedhar has spoken at several product forums on AI and its application to enterprise, energy and sustainability, and was hosted on several podcasts. He also testified in front of congressional committee on Energy and Commerce on “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Powering America’s Energy Future”
He is a Mechanical Engineer with Masters in Operations Research and Statistics from Indian Statistical Institute followed by MBA from Duke University Fuqua School of Business.
Session(s):
Innovate to Dominate: Real Word Strategies from U.S. Manufacturing Excellence | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 3:00 PM (EDT)
Rich Solti
Vice President
PROLIM Global Corporation
Digital Transformation, IoT, and PLM Executive management professional with over 30 plus years of design, engineering, IT, manufacturing, amd quality related consulting services experience. Rich has worked on a wide vairiety of consulting engagements and helped source the right talent for many of his projects.
Specialties: Design, Digital Transformation, Dimensional Engineering, Engineering Services, GD&T, IoT, IT, Manufacturing , PDM/PLM, Quality, and Recruiting services.
Session(s):
The Digital Advantage: How Siemens Xcelerator is Empowering Small and Medium Businesses to Thrive | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Paul Stephens
Global Strategy Manager
Ford Motor Company
Paul Stephens is a next-generation manufacturing strategist who is rewriting the playbook for automotive production. As Global Strategy Manager at Ford Motor Company, Paul is building a new business unit that deploys autonomous robotics and AI-driven logistics solutions to streamline operations and achieve breakthrough value for customers.
Previously, Paul authored the Blue Oval City automated-material logistics strategy and spearheaded multiple Industry 4.0 programs that raised efficiency and trimmed over $100 million in lifecycle cost.
Paul brings a fresh approach to a traditional industry, challenging the status quo and driving next-level growth in automation, process strategy, labor relations, investment optimization, and industry partnerships.
Paul’s journey with Ford began in 2015 as a co-op student, prior to coming onboard full-time. Prior to his current assignment, he held positions in Quality, Industrial Engineering, Final Assembly, Vehicle Launch, and Technology Development.
Paul holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kettering University, and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business.
Paul holds multiple US and global patents, and is a frequent speaker at international automotive and manufacturing conferences. Outside his professional schedule, Paul enjoys exploring new cultures through travel, bringing global perspective to his Michigan home.
Session(s):
The State of the Automation Industry–Leadership Roundtable | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 12:30 PM (EDT)Intelligent Autonomy | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 2:15 PM (EDT)
John Tomik
Managing Director
Slalom Element Labs
John is the founder of Element Laboratories and a Managing Director in Slalom’s global strategy group. He created Slalom Element Laboratories to provide an inspirational and innovative physical space to fulfill Slalom’s purpose of helping people and organizations dream bigger, move faster, and build better tomorrows for all. John is a futurist by trade and brings a wealth of experience in technology, product, and business strategy to the clients he serves. His passion of bringing the future forward to people has expanded from the west coast (where he lives with his wife Melissa) to the east coast where he recently opened Lab212 in 1 World Trade Center. He has been pivotal in defining what Smart City strategies look like and helping organizations pragmatically navigate the complexities of technologies, networking, experiences, and adoption that many have faced.
Most recently, John launched a new immersion program in NYC, partnering with Chloe Taylor Technologies, schools, and city organizations to inspire local students to “Dream Bigger”. Prior to Slalom, John served as the Vice President at Synchronoss Technologies where he was pivotal in bringing some of the biggest consumer mobility, telecommunications, and entertainment products to market, transforming the experiences of how people interact with the world today.
Session(s):
Everything in the Factory is Smart & Autonomous Now–That’s Why 5G is Critical | Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 11:30 AM (EDT)
Martin Valkysers
Head of Xcelerator US
Siemens
With over 30 years of experience in consulting, manufacturing, and technology, Martin is a seasoned leader driving organizational change and digital transformation. Having worked across the public, scientific, and industrial sectors in both Europe and the US, Martin has progressed from his military background to increasingly responsible business positions.
Martin's expertise includes innovating process and technology-based capabilities for small and large organizations, leading international project teams delivering major optimization and transformation initiatives, and building and running a highly profitable operations consulting unit. His employer track record includes medium-sized companies like German simulation and testing firm IABG, where he invented critical new organizational capabilities for clients, multinational consulting firm Capgemini, where he built a new portfolio segment for the US market, real estate giant CBRE, where he drove organizational transformation and global technology leader Siemens, where he held multiple leadership positions.
In his current role as Head of Siemens Xcelerator US, Martin oversees the continuous development and growth of the Siemens Xcelerator Marketplace, Portfolio, and Ecosystem. He leverages his extensive experience and proven track record of success to drive transformative digital transformation and help organizations harness the power of advanced technologies to achieve their goals.
Session(s):
The Digital Advantage: How Siemens Xcelerator is Empowering Small and Medium Businesses to Thrive | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Francis Vatakencherry
Product and Solutions Development Team Leader
Siemens
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Francis Vatakencherry brings over 30 years of industry and solution domain experience across discrete and process manufacturing. As a customer journey leader at Siemens, he partners with manufacturers to meet them where they are and guide pragmatic digital transformation. His work focuses on closed-loop digital twins, AI-driven asset intelligence, and IT/OT convergence — turning operational data into continuous optimization across engineering and operations. Francis has led end-to-end digital transformation initiatives with Fortune 500 companies, delivering measurable improvements in performance, reliability, and sustainability through smart, connected factory outcomes.
Session(s):
Unlocking Shopfloor Potential: AI-Powered Continuous Improvement | Monday, May 12, 2025 - 12:00 PM (EDT)
Matthew Wicks
VP/GM Zebra Robotics Automation
Zebra Technologies
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Matt has more than 25 years of experience in the logistics industry with expertise in the areas of traditional MHE, robotics, controls and software integration. He has extensive experience in the field of advanced robotic solution development, integration and design. Matt is a thought leader in the robotics industry, holds numerous robotics patents and is a featured speaker at various robotics industry events. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri – Rolla (Missouri S&T) and serves on the Board of Directors for the Association for Advancing Automation (A3).
Session(s):
The Robotics Executive Roundtable: The Trends & Technologies Driving the Industry | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 10:30 AM (EDT).jpg)
Melonee Wise
Chief Product Officer
Agility Robotics
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Melonee Wise is the Chief Product Officer of Agility Robotics. Melonee has a deep history in developing autonomous robots and advancing the robotics industry as we know it today. Prior to joining Agility in 2023, Melonee was the Vice President of Robotics Automation at Zebra Technologies. She was CEO of Fetch Robotics until its acquisition by Zebra Technologies in 2021. Melonee was the second employee at Willow Garage where she led a team of engineers developing next-generation robot hardware and software, including ROS, the PR2, and TurtleBot. Melonee has received many accolades and awards including the MIT Technology Review TR35, Silicon Valley Business Journal’s Women of Influence and 40 Under 40, Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2021 Supply Chain Woman of the Year, the 2022 Engelberger award. Melonee received a BS in Mechanical Engineering and Physics Engineering and a MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois.
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