Automate Educator Day Speakers
AMANDA BEATON
US Education Program Manager
Siemens
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Amanda Beaton has been with Siemens since 2003.
As the U.S. Program Manager for Siemens Automation Cooperates with Education (SCE), she bridges academia and industry by helping educators equip the next generation of workers with essential automation skills.
In earlier roles at Siemens, she developed an apprentice program for field service technicians and led a leadership development program for engineers and employees. She began her career in Siemens' Operations Leadership Development program, gaining hands-on experience in manufacturing operations in both Mexico and the U.S. She later served as a Project Manager and Product Manager for Low Voltage and Energy Management product lines.
Amanda holds a Bachelor's degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Georgia Tech and an MBA from Georgia State University.
She actively serves on several industry advisory boards for colleges, universities, and nonprofits across the United States.
Session(s):
Educator of the Year Award | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:45 PM (CDT)
RICK BROOKSHIRE
Director, Product Development
Epson America, Inc.
Rick Brookshire is Director of Robotics and Automation Solutions at Epson, leading robotics strategy and sales across North and Latin America. With 40+ years in robotics, he helped pioneer PC-based robot controllers, integrated robot vision, and the foundational software behind Epson Robots’ RC+ platform—now used in thousands of factories worldwide.
Today, Rick focuses on practical automation that addresses labor constraints, quality, and customization while lowering barriers to adoption. For education audiences, he brings a clear, real-world view of how robotics is reshaping careers and the skills students need to succeed. He holds a B.S. in Computer Science and Marketing from Clemson University.
Session(s):
Building Scalable Robotics and Automation Pathways from K-12 to Industry | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:00 PM (CDT)
KEVIN CABANISS
Channel Development - Education
Teradyne Robotics
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Kevin Cabaniss serves as Channel Development Manager for Education at Teradyne Robotics, where he bridges the gap between advanced automation technologies and modern education. With experience in technical education consulting, Kevin is passionate about bringing innovative robotic solutions into today's learning environment.
Session(s):
Teaching AI-Enabled Robotics and Automation Without Chasing Technology Fads | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 10:15 AM (CDT)
CLINT CHAPMAN
Sr. Manager Strategic Partner Relations - EDU / WD
Yaskawa America Inc.
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Clint Chapman is the Senior Manager of Strategic Partner Relations for Education and Workforce Development at Yaskawa America. With more than 30 years in robotics, manufacturing, and automation, Clint has worked both on the plant floor and in supplier leadership roles supporting major manufacturers, including Toyota, Honda, and Hitachi. His early career at the NUMMI plant in California helped shape his perspective on the Toyota Production System (TPS), continuous improvement, and the critical connection between people, process, and technology.
Today, Clint focuses on helping bridge the gap between education and industry by working with school districts, career centers, universities, manufacturers, and workforce organizations to better align student pathways with the realities of modern manufacturing. He actively collaborates with organizations, including SkillsUSA and the ARM Institute, to support workforce awareness, robotics education, and emerging talent development initiatives across the country.
Known for his practical industry perspective and energetic presentation style, Clint is passionate about helping students, parents, educators, and industry leaders better understand the human side of manufacturing and the opportunities that exist within automation, skilled trades, and advanced technology careers. Outside of work, he is busy in December, an avid RC pilot, husband of 30 years, and proud father of three.
Session(s):
Robotic Safety, Risk Assessment, and Responsible AI in Education and Training | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
CLAUDE DINSMOOR
Vice President - Robotics Research & Development
FANUC America
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Claude Dinsmoor is Vice President of Robotics Research & Development at FANUC America, leading U.S. development of robotic controller software, simulation systems, and FANUC’s global paint robot platforms in collaboration with global engineering teams. He oversees electrical, mechanical, process, and software organizations, including robot software, simulation tools, and connected IoT monitoring systems that support industrial automation. Dinsmoor’s teams drive the integration of physical AI and advanced AI applications, enabling intelligent robotics for manufacturing, process optimization, and predictive maintenance. With over 40 years in the FANUC group, Dinsmoor previously led FANUC America’s Application Segment with focus on product planning, and new robotic applications for automotive and general industrial manufacturers.
Session(s):
Teaching AI-Enabled Robotics and Automation Without Chasing Technology Fads | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 10:15 AM (CDT)
TAD DOUCE
Executive Director
EduEverything / The National Robotics Challenge
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Tad Douce has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and school administrator since beginning his career in 1996. He started his career as a middle school pre-engineering instructor in central Ohio and has authored numerous books, tutorials, and curriculum packages in robotics, STEM, manufacturing, and making. In 2011, he was awarded the Professor George Schneider, Jr. Manufacturing Technology Education Faculty Award from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers -Education Foundation and the prestigious SME-EF “Building the Future” award in 2008. He is currently the Director of Educational Technology and Communication (a.k.a. Head Nerd) for River Valley Local Schools near Marion, Ohio. He also serves as the Executive Director for the 501c3 organization EduEverything, Inc., where he oversees operations for the National Robotics Challenge, Drones in School, and Advanced Vertical Robotics (AVR) STEM programs. His great purpose is to help people find their passions and unleash their full potential.
Session(s):
Robotic Safety, Risk Assessment, and Responsible AI in Education and Training | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
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):
Welcome | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 10:00 AM (CDT)
CARRIE GILES
ACTE Past-President
Association for Career and Technical Education
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Carrie Giles has 21 years of experience working in secondary and post-secondary career-technical education. She currently serves as the Regional Lead for Ohio's Central Region Career Pathway Support Network and as the National Board Past-President for ACTE. Carrie is a graduate of Ashland University, ACTE's National Leadership Fellowship and Post-Secondary Leadership Programs, Ohio's Shoemaker CTE Institute, and The National Career Pathway Network's (NCPN) Leadership Development Academy.
Giles previously served as ACTE's Region 1 VP and President for The Ohio's Career-Technical.
Administrator's Association. She also serves on ACTE's Region 1 Policy and Conference Planning Committees and a mentor for new ACTE Board Members and ACTE Leadership Fellows.
Session(s):
Building Scalable Robotics and Automation Pathways from K-12 to Industry | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:00 PM (CDT)
BRANDON HUDSON
Director of Workforce Development
SkillsUSA
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Brandon Hudson is the Director of Workforce Development for SkillsUSA. As part of his role, Brandon is responsible for SkillsUSA’s experiential workforce development initiatives and oversees 115 different national competitions that serve as premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education students and one of the largest hands-on workforce development events in the world. Prior to his arrival at SkillsUSA, Brandon served as the Senior Director of Workforce and Economic Development with the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. At THEC, Brandon assisted with the administration of the Governor’s Investment in Vocational Education (GIVE) grants and the Supporting Postsecondary Access in Rural Communities (SPARC) grants and worked to align postsecondary Career and Technical Education with workforce needs by facilitating partnerships and sharing best practices across the State of Tennessee. Prior to THEC, Brandon was the Vice President at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Shelbyville and was the Coordinator of Special Projects at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Nashville.
Brandon and his wife, Julia, live in Englewood, CO, where they have two dogs: Olive and Otis.
Session(s):
Building Scalable Robotics and Automation Pathways from K-12 to Industry | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:00 PM (CDT)
SARAH JONES
Sr. Program Manager, Workforce Development
Robotics Education & Competition Foundation
Sarah has been in education for 18 years. She started her career teaching secondary mathematics before transitioning to higher education as the Director of STEM Outreach at a local university. Throughout her career she has mentored new educators, worked with existing educators to create new and meaningful pedagogy for their classroom, promoted STEM education across the K-16 pathway, and worked with the AR Department of Education to expand the Computer Science initiative. She currently works with schools to provide students with the opportunity to earn Industry Certifications in Pre-Engineering and Robotics, and to expand their CTE pathways to be more industry relevant.
Session(s):
Robotic Safety, Risk Assessment, and Responsible AI in Education and Training | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
CHRISTELLE KEEFER
Director of Training and Certification
The Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
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Christelle is passionate about advancing automation and creating opportunities that strengthen and prepare the workforce. She currently leads the strategy, development, and execution of training and certification programs at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), supporting professionals across robotics, automation, machine vision, motion control, and AI. Her work focuses on building industry-relevant learning pathways, certifications, and curriculum that help individuals and organizations develop the skills needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving automation landscape.
Named one of the 10 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics by the International Federation of Robotics, and recognized with the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce Tomorrow’s 20 Award and Oakland County’s 40 Under 40, Christelle is committed to driving progress across the industry. She is also a strong advocate for women, underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities, and diverse communities to explore and thrive in automation.
Through advisory committees, industry collaboration, and mentorship initiatives, she works to connect industry, education, and community. Having partnered with professionals, educators, and students across more than 40 countries, Christelle continues to help shape the future of automation by expanding access to knowledge, opportunity, and innovation.
Session(s):
Building Scalable Robotics and Automation Pathways from K-12 to Industry | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:00 PM (CDT)
DANIEL LAU
Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
University of Kentucky
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Dr. Daniel L. Lau received his B.Sc. degree (with highest distinction) in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, in 1995 and his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Delaware, Newark, in 1999. He is the Databeam Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Kentucky, Director of Graduate Studies, and a Certified Professional Engineer. Dr. Lau was elected to the A3 Vision Technology Strategy Board of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), where he provides strategic direction for the advancement of machine vision technology. Dr. Lau is widely published, including proceedings such as the IEEE and the book Modern Digital Halftoning (CRC Press, 2nd edition). His research spans 3D imaging, machine vision, digital halftoning, and optical engineering, and has appeared in Vision Systems Design, Photonics Spectra, Imaging Insight, and Inspect Magazine, with numerous patents granted in halftoning and structured light systems.
Session(s):
Teaching AI-Enabled Robotics and Automation Without Chasing Technology Fads | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 10:15 AM (CDT)
DAN MANTZ
CEO
Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF)
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Dan Mantz is the Chief Executive Officer for the Robotics Education and Competition Foundation (RECF), where he is responsible for the strategy, organizational structure, and fiscal health of the organization. An executive leader with over 25 years of engineering experience, Dan has a proven track record of building high-performance teams and promoting financial growth across the software, electrical, and mechanical fields.
Dan was previously President of Rack Solutions for four years, helping increase sales and improve profitability. During his tenure, RackSolutions developed hundreds of new infrastructure products for the IT industry, including a patented universal rail system. Dan also oversaw product expansion into Europe, Canada, Mexico, and Asia, launched the “Lone Star Racks” line, and led the acquisition of H-Squared.
Prior to Rack Solutions, Dan spent 19 years at FANUC Robotics. As Director of Paint Robot Systems, he oversaw the global development of industrial painting robots and equipment. He also served as Electrical Engineering Manager and Senior Staff Engineer, developing cables, controllers, and circuit boards. Earlier, as a Senior Program Manager, he specialized in pneumatic and electrical products and was awarded two patents for the P-500 Paint robot. He began his career implementing control systems at manufacturing facilities across five continents.
Dan is a respected leader and innovator in the robotics industry who quickly recognized the value that robotics brings to students worldwide. He has embraced competitive robotics, mentoring teams and engaging in all aspects of the experience. He understands firsthand that the skills gained through robotics have a positive, lasting impact on a student’s education and lifetime.
A native of Seven Valleys, Pennsylvania, Dan is an alumnus of Kettering University and began his career at General Motors as part of the Kettering co-op program.
Session(s):
Teaching AI-Enabled Robotics and Automation Without Chasing Technology Fads | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 10:15 AM (CDT)
RITCH RAMEY
Director of Education
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Ritch Ramey has more than 35 years of experience advancing robotics and automation workforce development. As Director of Education for the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), he supports national education initiatives serving more than 1,450 member companies and institutions. Ritch manages the growing Education Pavilion at the Automate Show, the largest robotics and automation event in the Americas, and works to expand industry training and workforce outreach programs.
His current work includes supporting the development of automation training curriculum, LMS-based credential pathways, and workforce partnerships with organizations such as ARM Institute, FIRST Robotics, the National Robotics Challenge, SkillsUSA, and the RECF VEX Robotics program. He also contributes to grant development and workforce pilot programs designed to expand robotics and automation training across the United States.
Before joining A3, Ritch served as State Coordinator and Founding Technical Lead of the RAMTEC Ohio initiative, one of the nation’s most successful advanced robotics workforce training models. At RAMTEC, he led curriculum development, grant implementation, and technical training across major industrial platforms including FANUC, Yaskawa, Universal Robots, and PLC systems from Siemens, Omron, Mitsubishi, and Allen-Bradley.
For more than two decades, Ritch has also coordinated VEX and SkillsUSA robotics competitions, promoting hands-on robotics education, safety awareness, and Industry 4.0 career pathways from middle school through adult workforce upskilling.
Session(s):
Welcome | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 10:00 AM (CDT)
JASEN RITTER
Senior Director Partnerships | Work-based Learning
Project Lead The Way (PLTW)
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In his role on the Strategic Partnerships team for Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a non-profit specializing in PreK-12 transformative educational experiences for students and teachers, Jasen provides strategy, analysis, and leadership related to industry-education engagement and community involvement.
Prior to joining PLTW, he started his career in the computer science and information technology industry before transitioning to the classroom. In the classroom, he was one of the first PLTW Aerospace Master Teachers; co-authored “Aerospace Engineering: From the Ground Up” in 2011 and founded the FIRST Robotics team “Viperbots”, now one of the premier robotics teams in Texas serving as a model for industry, education, and community partnerships.
Jasen has presented across the nation to industry and education audiences, such as at PLTW Summits, STEM symposiums and Workforce Development conferences, on the value and logistics of building K to Career talent pipelines.
He received his Bachelor of Science and graduate degrees from Florida State University and currently lives in Indianapolis, Indiana with his wife, where he is a member of the USA Track and Field National Championship Team, Indiana Elite Athletic Club.
Session(s):
Building Scalable Robotics and Automation Pathways from K-12 to Industry | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:00 PM (CDT)
TED ROZIER
Director Of Digital Advanced Technology & Robotics
Festo Didactic
Ted Rozier is the Director Of Digital Advanced Technologies and Robotics for Festo Didactic Solution Center North America, head quartered in Eatontown NJ,
Before Joining Festo Didactic, He Brings 18 years of experience in leading the Automation Engineering Department for Doosan Infracore Machine Tool Corporation. He specialized in the design and development of Robotics and Machine tool turnkey systems for the Automotive, Aerospace and Pharmaceutical industry.
Ted has managed the development of several User friendly automation control turnkey systems on a global scale.
As Director of Digital Advanced Technologies and Robotics of Festo Didactic, Ted is passionately looking to advance Festo Didactic as a global leader in designing and implementing Industry 4.0 learning factories and training programs with the view to systematically prepare individuals to excel working in dynamic and complex industrial automation environments.
Session(s):
Robotic Safety, Risk Assessment, and Responsible AI in Education and Training | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
BRYAN SELLARS
Strategy & Business Exploration
SICK, Inc.
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Close to 30 years in factory automation as a segment marketing manager, national product manager, direct salesperson, territory manager, office manager, and regional manager. Have worked in both distribution and for a manufacturer in the factory automation sector. Most recently shifted focus to education and workforce development to help create and promote industry relevant solutions to help bridge the gap between educational efforts and industry needs.
Session(s):
Robotic Safety, Risk Assessment, and Responsible AI in Education and Training | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
JERITT WILLIAMS
Assistant Professor of Engineering Technology
Illinois State University
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Dr. Jeritt Williams is an Assistant Professor of Engineering Technology at Illinois State University, where he specializes in the advancement of robotics and automation education. Recognized for his leadership and impact on the industry, he was named the 2025 A3 Educator of the Year. At Illinois State, he directs the Caterpillar Integrated Manufacturing Lab, a premier facility, aimed at transforming technical education through high-impact, hands-on instruction in systems integration, including industrial robotics, PLCs, and digital twin technologies.
Drawing on two decades of experience across industry and education, Jeritt is dedicated to bridging the gap between the theoretical aspects of academia and practical applications in the real world of work. With a focus on workforce development, Williams’s most recent work includes projects like SUPERCHARGE (NSF Award #2148429), which aims to develop STEM talent pipelines invoving robotics and renewable energy, that can then return to positively impact communities in need, and the development and pilot testing of an “AI+Robotics” micro-credentials for STEM educators, ensuring that graduates are "day-one ready" to meet the rapidly evolving demands of the next generation workforce.
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