NextGen Theater Speakers
NUSHRAT AHMED
CEO
Sisterhood of Trades
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Nush is a machine operator-turned-community-builder whose career spans CNC machining, Swiss lathe setup, automotive tech, and aerospace quality inspection. Today she channels that hands-on background into her work at ProShop ERP, where she focuses on customer engagement and marketing, and into the community she helped build from the ground up.
She's one of the co-founders of Sisterhood of Trades, a global community of 1,200+ tradeswomen that started as a group chat and grew into a thriving Discord-based network connecting women across the skilled trades. She also hosts the Next Gen MFG podcast, which is just one of three, where she explores what it takes to build the next generation of manufacturing and STEM talent.
Nush speaks at the intersection of trades identity, community building, and what it actually looks like to grow a grassroots movement into something real.
Session(s):
Built in the Group Chat: How Community is Reshaping Manufacturing Culture | Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 10:30 AM (CDT)
CARLOS ALFARO FLORES
Mechatronics Application Engineer
Mechatronics Application Engineer
Carlos Alfaro Flores is an accomplished automation and controls engineering professional with expertise in robotics, motion control, machine vision, PLC/HMI programming, and electro-mechanical systems integration. Originally from Juarez, Mexico, Carlos began his career as a tool maker and controls builder at Dimeyco before earning his degree in Mechatronic Engineering from UACJ. He went on to hold engineering and leadership roles at Dimeyco and Delphi, while also serving as a contractor supporting leading industrial companies including Continental, Bosch, Festo, and CMV Automation. Carlos later continued his career in the United States with Calvary Robotics, Rockwell Automation and currently serves as Mechatronics Application Engineer at Festo in Chicago, IL.
Throughout his career, Carlos has developed expertise across a wide range of industrial automation technologies, including robot programming for KUKA, ABB, Staubli, Epson, and Comau systems, as well as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Bosch Rexroth, and Codesys PLC platforms.
Session(s):
Diversity and Emerging Leaders in Automation | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
CHRISTOPHER ANDERSON
Senior Manager, Professional Development
SkillsUSA
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Christopher Anderson serves as the Senior Manager of Professional Development in the Office of Member and Chapter Development at SkillsUSA. In this role, Chris leads the development and delivery of professional learning experiences for educators across the country, with a focus on supporting advisors, improving instruction, and aligning with SkillsUSA’s mission.
Chris brings more than 15 years of experience with SkillsUSA, beginning as a student competitor and state officer. Since then, he has served as an engaged alumnus, officer trainer, chapter advisor, and state association leader. Before joining the national team, he was a tenured Career and Technical Education teacher and later took on several leadership roles at SkillsUSA Illinois, including Director of Education, Associate Executive Director, and Chief Operating Officer. In those roles, he oversaw statewide educator training, led major events like the state championships, and supported thousands of students and teachers.
He has also been deeply involved in workforce development, playing a central role in expanding work-based learning and Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs across Illinois and beyond. Based in Chicago, Chris brings a strategic mindset, deep commitment to educator support, and a passion for helping students access high-quality, career-connected learning.
Session(s):
Designing Talent Pipelines With High-Impact Through SkillsUSA Work-Based Learning | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 3:45 PM (CDT)
SARAH ANDRZEJEWSKI
Product Manager
Yaskawa America, Inc.
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Sarah is the product manager for software solutions at Yaskawa Motoman. Earning her MBA in 2020, she brings her years of experience in project management, scrum, and lean six sigma to deliver innovative and user-friendly software solutions to industrial robotics.
Session(s):
Empowering Students with Motoman NEXT and Physical AI | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 10:30 AM (CDT)
JOSEPH BALDIGA
National CNC Education Account Manager
FANUC America
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Joseph “Joe” Baldiga is a leader in advanced manufacturing education and workforce development, serving as National CNC Education Account Manager at FANUC America. Based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, he leads national strategies to expand technical training in CNC, robotics, and automation across educational institutions.
With more than 25 years at FANUC, Joe has held roles in customer service, sales, training, marketing, and business development. Joe credits his time in the training department and the launch of FANUC’s CERT Program for igniting his passion for education. As technology advanced at a rapid pace, there emerged a growing divide between the demand for skilled workers and the available talent pool. Determined to address this challenge head-on, the FANUC Certified Education Training (CERT) program was launched to develop the next generation of manufacturing talent. Joe is a great advocate for vocational education and apprenticeship programs, recognizing the importance of hands-on training to prepare individuals for careers in advanced manufacturing.
He currently drives growth of CNC education initiatives, developing go-to-market strategies for training equipment, simulation software, and curriculum. He works closely with a national network of partners, schools, instructors, and workforce organizations to implement industry-aligned programs, contributing to increased adoption of CNC systems, robotics automation, integrated training solutions, and student credentialing.
A recognized advocate for closing the manufacturing skills gap, Joe frequently speaks on automation, artificial intelligence, and workforce development. He is passionate about helping educators align programs with Industry 4.0 needs to prepare students with job-ready skills.
He serves as a National Coalition for Advanced Technical Centers board member, contributes to NSF-funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, and supports inclusive workforce programs through The Uniquely Abled Project and others. Outside of work, Joe is a husband and father who is active in Young Life youth mentorship, coaching soccer, and enjoys hiking and camping
Session(s):
Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing for Educators | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 1:30 PM (CDT)Better Together: Integrating Robotics and CNC in the Modern Classroom | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 12:00 PM (CDT)
SARA BURAKOFF
Area Sales Manager
Teradyne Robotics
Sara Burakoff is an Area Sales Manager at Teradyne Robotics with over a decade of experience in sales and team leadership, focused on accelerating the adoption of robotic automation across multiple industries. She brings deep expertise in working across cross-functional teams and within the Teradyne Robotics ecosystem of partners to deploy Universal Robots and Mobile Industrial Robot technologies in ways that drive efficiency, flexibility, and real operational impact.
Session(s):
Diversity and Emerging Leaders in Automation | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 12:45 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):
Cobots in the Classroom: Preparing Students for a Collaborative Robotics Future | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
CLINT CHAPMAN
Sr. Manager Strategic Partner Relations - EDU / WD
Yaskawa America Inc., Motoman Robotics Division
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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):
Robots, Role Models, and Reality | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
MATT CHURCHILL
Director of Sales Engineering
OSARO
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Matt Churchill brings over a decade of expertise in solutions architecture, project management, and mechanical design to his role as Director of Sales Engineering at OSARO, where he turns customer challenges into practical automation.
Session(s):
Automation 101: The Pursuit of Impact | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
MANDY DALZIEL
Employee Development & Documentation Manager
Mission Design & Automation
Mandy Dalziel serves as the Employee Development and Documentation Manager at Mission Design & Automation. With a non-traditional path into the automation industry, Mandy began her career in higher education before transitioning into a training specialist role supporting customers and employees in food and beverage manufacturing. From there, she expanded into technical writing and documentation, eventually growing into leadership roles focused on employee development, recruiting, and organizational growth.
At Mission, Mandy leads the documentation team and is responsible for developing training and development programs that support employees at all stages of their careers. She has played a key role in building structured onboarding, leadership development initiatives, and scalable documentation processes that improve both employee experience and customer deliverables.
Mandy is passionate about bridging gaps between people, processes, and priorities, connecting leadership vision with day-to-day execution. She is committed to helping individuals navigate careers in automation and creating environments where people can grow and succeed.
Session(s):
Automation 101: What Careers Actually Look Like | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 3:45 PM (CDT)
ERIC DEYOUNG
Sales Engineer
Mission Design & Automation
Eric DeYoung is a Sales Engineer with over 10 years of automation experience. Before joining the manufacturing world, Eric worked in direct-sales roles. He transitioned into manufacturing, starting in tool and die, where he began learning the ins and outs of a skilled trade. Although manufacturing wasn’t the fulfilling job he desired, it helped him learn many of the skills required to become a machine builder, and he would later earn his journeyman’s card as a Tool Maker. Throughout his journey at Mission Design and Automation, Eric transitioned from being a Lead Machine Builder to an Applications Engineer, and he now serves as a Sales Engineer. Although sales isn’t new for his career, the industry he now serves is drastically different, and the skills and knowledge he acquired through his various roles have been paramount to his success.
Eric has a passion for problem solving, teaching, and winning. Problem solving has been a constant throughout his career, but from the start of his automation journey to now, the problems have looked much different. It started with how to build an excellent machine that always works, and now it’s how to take care of the customers’ needs by developing a machine that has never been built before. He really enjoys the process of collaborating with customers and colleagues to develop concepts for custom-built automation solutions.
Session(s):
Automation 101: What Careers Actually Look Like | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 3:45 PM (CDT)
JIM DEVAPRASAD
Professor and Director of Robotics Engineering
Lake Superior State University
Jim Devaprasad is a Professor in the School of Engineering and Technology and Director of the LSSU Robotics Center, which houses more than $3 million in robotics and automation equipment. He is the architect of LSSU’s robotics program, the first bachelor’s degree program in robotics in the United States, established in 1985.
Hundreds of LSSU robotics graduates have gone on to successful careers with robot manufacturers, system integrators, and end-user companies across North America and beyond. Many have risen to leadership positions, including CEO, Vice President, and Director roles, while others have founded their own successful automation companies.
Over his 40-year career at Lake Superior State University—one of Michigan’s 15 public universities—Prof. Devaprasad has earned numerous accolades, including A3’s Educator of the Year award, the Distinguished Professor Award from the Michigan Association of Governing Boards, and the Outstanding Manufacturing Engineer Award from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. He has presented at numerous conferences and events, including at NIST, IEEE’s IROS, and Automate.
Jim is actively engaged in fostering partnerships with industry and promoting STEM education through a variety of committees and service activities. He serves on multiple A3 committees, including the Membership, Advocacy, and Education Committees, and his dedication to robotics education and applied research continues to make a strong impact on both the academic and industrial sectors.
Session(s):
AI-Proof Your Career in Robotics Engineering | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 3:45 PM (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):
From Classroom to Career: Scaling Work-Based Learning (WBL) for Automation Pathways | Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
RYAN GUTHRIE
Executive Vice President
TM Robotics
Ryan is an accomplished automation professional with nearly two decades of hands-on experience in robotics, system integration, and global business development. Currently serving as Executive Vice President at TMRA, he leads new business initiatives across North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa, bringing a truly international perspective to the evolving automation landscape.
Since entering the industry in 2007, Ryan has worked extensively with industrial robotic systems, supporting integrators and end users across a wide range of applications. His expertise includes robot programming and training, vision systems, PLC and HMI design, end-of-arm tooling, and system optimization. He also spent seven years in Europe as a Service Manager, further strengthening his global experience and focus on building long-term customer relationships. Most recently, he joined Shibaura Machine’s Casting & Molding Division, helping drive its evolution into a full turnkey solutions provider.
Passionate about mentorship and knowledge sharing, Ryan is committed to developing the next generation of automation professionals. He believes that strong relationships, continuous learning, and hands-on experience are key to long-term success in this industry—making him a valuable voice in today’s conversation on mentoring in automation.
Session(s):
Mentors, Mistakes & Momentum | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
KYLE JOHNSON
Terramechanics Engineer
NASA Glenn Research Center
Kyle Johnson is a NASA engineer at NASA Glenn Research Center with 18 years of experience in robotic testing and terramechanics research. He specializes in the design and evaluation of non-pneumatic, shape memory alloy tires for next-generation lunar rovers, with expertise in both mobile and stationary test systems.
Session(s):
Rovers from the Classroom to the Moon | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 2:15 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):
Inspiring Youth to Invigorate the Future STEM Pipeline | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 1:30 PM (CDT)
CASEY JULIANO
Robotics Teacher & Program Developer
Tomorrow Tech Academy | Juliano Ventures
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Casey Juliano is an award-winning educator, robotics coach, and founder of Tomorrow Tech Academy, with more than 27 years of experience empowering students through hands-on, innovative learning. She has taught across every elementary and middle school grade level, building a career centered on creativity, problem-solving, and developing student confidence through real-world application.
Over the past decade, Casey has established herself as a recognized leader in K–12 robotics education, translating classroom instruction into high-impact competitive success. Under her leadership, her teams have achieved historic milestones on the global stage. In 2025, her students earned the VEX World Championship Excellence Award, followed by the 2026 CREATE U.S. Open Championship Excellence Award, making them the first teams from Nevada to achieve both honors. These accomplishments reflect not only technical excellence, but a deep commitment to the engineering design process, iteration, and student-driven innovation.
In addition to her work in the classroom and in competition, Casey collaborates with schools, organizations, and industry partners to provide consulting, program development, and event planning that expand access to high-quality STEM and robotics opportunities.
Casey’s contributions to STEM education have earned her national recognition. She was inducted into the VEX STEM Hall of Fame and named an Inspiration All-Star. She has also been recognized as the 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year for Area 3 in the Clark County School District and as Nevada’s first K–12 Digital Day of Learning Teacher of the Year by the Nevada Department of Education.
As the founder of Tomorrow Tech Academy, Casey is focused on expanding access to high-quality robotics and engineering experiences through camps, enrichment programs, and competitive pathways, connecting education with industry-relevant skills and preparing students to become the next generation of innovators, engineers, and problem-solvers.
Session(s):
Student-Centered Engineering Design Notebooks: Teaching Students to Think, Document, and Iterate | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 3:00 PM (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 the Automation Workforce: From Early Education to Industry Skills | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 3:00 PM (CDT)
DEB KLING
VP Marketing
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
Deb Kling is the Vice President of Marketing for the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) and a key member of the A3 Leadership Team. In this role, Kling leads a dynamic marketing team and advocates for the transformative benefits of automation across all industries. With a strong 1400-member foundation, they are committed to driving awareness and growth in the fields of robotics, vision, motion control and AI. Before joining A3, Deb spent her career in the motion control and robotics sectors with advancing technical and commercial roles at Parker Hannifin and Lenze. She holds an engineering degree from the University of Illinois and an MBA and executive credentials from Northern Illinois, Northwestern, and Harvard Business School.
Session(s):
Diversity and Emerging Leaders in Automation | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
BROOKE LAING
CSO, BDR, Growth + Visibility
Sisterhood of Trades, The MFG Connector, AeroGrowth
Brooke Laing is a steamfitter/welder turned manufacturing storyteller and business development specialist. Through podcasts, social media, and industry media, she shares real conversations from the shop floor to help connect the next generation of talent with modern manufacturing.
Session(s):
Built in the Group Chat: How Community is Reshaping Manufacturing Culture | Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 10:30 AM (CDT)
TODD MCINTOSH
Service Robotics and Sr. Mechanical Engineer
Mission Design & Automation
Todd McIntosh is a Service Robotics and Sr. Mechanical Engineer at Mission Design & Automation. Todd graduated from Michigan Technological University with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2010 and has built his career through various roles in automation since then. Todd’s initial focus in automation was primarily large, custom machine design, and has grown and shifted into designing and building high-volume and rapid prototype projects, research and development, and service and robotics work. Todd recently achieved his FANUC Service Engineer Master Certification. Todd thrives on variety and enjoys the multiple areas of focus in his work, which include not only conceptual design but also hands-on implementation and troubleshooting.
Todd is self-described as a gearhead, as he loves to tinker with and fabricate things. This also plays into his satisfaction in his role at Mission, since he gets to do those things both in and outside of work.
Outside of that, Todd enjoys rock crawling, off-roading, skiing, boating, and mountain biking.
Session(s):
Automation 101: What Careers Actually Look Like | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 3:45 PM (CDT)
TRAVIS MILLER
President
Miller Resource Group
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Travis Miller grew up in a recruiting family and sixteen years into his career, he's still convinced most hiring processes ask the wrong questions.
As President of Miller Resource Group, a 53-year-old executive search firm specializing in Industrial Technology, Travis leads a team that places sales, engineering, and operations talent from individual contributors through the C-suite. Since taking over the presidency two and a half years ago, he's helped grow MRG's revenue by more than 120%.
His approach is rooted in a simple but hard to execute belief that you can't find the right person until you truly understand what a company is building... not just what's in the job description.
Session(s):
Inside the Hiring Process: What Leading Automation Companies are Looking For | Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 12:00 PM (CDT)
TONI NEARY
Director of Community Engagement & Workforce Innovation
SME
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As the Director of Community Engagement and Workforce Innovation, I focus on pipeline development through diversity, equity, inclusion, and access , with a heavy focus on the early talent pipeline. My goal is to increase awareness and excitement among students about careers in manufacturing and engineering at all age levels.
With nearly 20 years in the field, I stumbled into my career in manufacturing education, but it ultimately ignited my passion for our industry. I have the privilege of witnessing innovative programs and projects from across the country and sharing these insights. It’s inspiring to be in a room where someone poses the question, “How do we?” and we can respond with successful examples from other regions.
What drives me is the desire to find solutions to the challenges industry has faced for decades. I believe every student deserves access to a relevant and engaging curriculum that prepares them for the real world and helps them unlock their true potential. I am committed to ensuring that both rural and urban schools across the United States have equal access to STEM & technology education.
At SME we are actively working to change the conversation around manufacturing. Our recruitment efforts span from “K through Gray.” What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to engage daily with amazing leaders in both education and industry. Hearing about the changes that are being implemented and the results they achieve is incredibly compelling. I truly believe that by uniting our efforts, we can close the skills gap and create opportunities for pathways in prosperity for all individuals.
Session(s):
Beyond the Traditional Talent Pipeline | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 2:15 PM (CDT)
HENRIKE NEULEN
Sr. Business Development Manager
Intrinsic
Henrike Neulen is a Senior Business Development Manager at Intrinsic, based in Munich/Germany. With a deep background in the European tech ecosystem, she previously led high-impact startup programs at UnternehmerTUM, Europe’s premier entrepreneurship hub. At Intrinsic, Henrike spearheads the European go-to-market strategy for AI-powered CNC machine tending and robotic inspection, collaborating with top-tier Solution Builders to scale intelligent automation. She holds an MBA from the University of Passau and Corvinus University of Budapest.
Session(s):
Diversity and Emerging Leaders in Automation | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
REBEKAH OESTREICH
Regional Channel Manager - Americas
Teradyne Robotics
Rebekah currently assists robotics and automation companies grow through smarter partnerships, stronger distribution strategies, and customer-focused sales execution. With over 15 years in industrial technology and channel development, she thrives at the intersection of strategy, relationship-building, and business growth. Rebekah is especially passionate about helping emerging technologies scale into real-world commercial success.
Session(s):
Diversity and Emerging Leaders in Automation | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
DUSTIN PYLES
CEO / Managing Consultant
VAZA Consulting
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Dr. Dustin A. Pyles is the CEO/Managing Consultant of VAZA Consulting, a firm specializing in strategic funding, public-private partnership development, and program alignment for amplifying education, workforce, and economic growth efforts. With nearly two decades of experience working across local and state governments, schools, higher education institutions, and non-profit organizations, Dr. Pyles has guided the development of impactful programs and secured more than $850 million in competitive local, state and federal grants and public-private investments to expand workforce training pipelines, strengthen industry partnerships, and foster economic resilience.
Related to robotics, automation and artificial intelligence, Dr. Pyles’s work explores and deploys actionable frameworks and plans for integration into education and workforce systems. He bridges innovation and implementation, helping communities align training, curriculum, and talent development strategies with the evolving demands of an automated and globally competitive economy.
Through VAZA Consulting, Dr. Pyles has partnered with the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) to advance national strategies connecting automation innovation, workforce readiness, and economic growth. His collaboration includes leveraging U.S. Department of Commerce funding to accelerate U.S. robotics and automation exports and supporting A3’s engagement with the U.S. Congressional Robotics Caucus to shape a National Robotics Strategy. He also champions the expansion of A3-supported, industry-recognized credentials, working with state and federal lawmakers to strengthen robotic safety, adoption, and technical competency nationwide for K-12 students and upskilling of the adult workforce, ensuring workforce readiness in robotics, AI, and machine learning.
Prior to VAZA, Dr. Pyles led the Ohio STEM Learning Network (OSLN), managed by the Battelle Memorial Institute, expanding Ohio’s STEM ecosystem from 10 to nearly 40 designated schools and hubs, while providing technical assistance for the establishment of other state networks. This was built upon numerous leadership, management and support roles within the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, Ohio Auditor of State and other organizations. Across his roles, he has continued to advocate for policies that strengthen innovation, talent pipeline development, and opportunity in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Session(s):
Embracing Automation: Engaging Schools, Community Organizations & Workforce Training Programs | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 2:15 PM (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):
A3 and Educational Partnerships | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 3:00 PM (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 Bridges Not Moats: Scaling Career-Connected Learning in Advanced Manufacturing | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 10:30 AM (CDT)
GEMMA ROSS
VP of Operations
OSARO
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Gemma Ross is the Vice President of Operations at OSARO, a leading developer of AI-driven robotics for e-commerce and logistics. With nearly a decade of experience in operational leadership, Gemma has been instrumental in scaling technology organizations and building systems that enable innovation at speed. At OSARO, she oversees global operations, including manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and customer delivery, ensuring seamless alignment between engineering and execution. Her leadership has been key to developing processes that bring advanced robotic solutions from concept to deployment with efficiency and precision. Throughout her career, Gemma has demonstrated a commitment to operational excellence, team empowerment, and strategic growth. She brings a pragmatic yet visionary approach to leadership, creating scalable frameworks that balance agility with structure—driving sustained success in the fast-evolving robotics and automation industry.
Session(s):
Mentors, Mistakes & Momentum | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
JACOB SANCHEZ
Community and Education Manager
Igus Inc
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Jacob Sanchez is a manufacturing and automation professional and advocate for skilled trades, with more than a decade of hands on experience across aerospace, consumer goods, and medical manufacturing environments. His work spans CNC machining, automation integration, and large scale industry engagement, with a focus on strengthening how companies present, adopt, and scale modern manufacturing technologies.
Jacob has hosted major trade show programming for audiences exceeding 60,000 attendees and leads an educational metalworking series that reaches millions of manufacturing professionals online. Through his industry work and national shop visits, he highlights practical automation strategies while elevating the visibility of manufacturers and the people who power them.
In his role at igus inc, Jacob helps build communities of solution driven professionals focused on implementing practical, cost conscious automation systems that improve competitiveness and production efficiency. Across every platform and initiative, his focus remains on expanding access to opportunity and ensuring the next generation of manufacturing talent is actively included in shaping the future of the industry.
Session(s):
12 Years in 30 Minutes: How to Further YOUR Career in Automation | Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
EVAN SCHUMACHER
Applications Engineer
Mission Design & Automation
Evan earned his Mechanical Engineering degree from Grand Valley State University in 2015. During his time at GVSU, he co-op’d at a West Michigan manufacturing company that produced automotive lighting components and products for the furniture industry. His initial role was making engineering improvements to multiple automated lines with the primary goal of increasing MTBI/MTBF, quality improvements, and fulfilling production orders. Evan’s experience led him into a product development support role, integrating lighting products into consumer goods. Afterwards, Evan transitioned to a traditional automation company supporting the applications development team performing R&D on projects that needed prove out or further up-front investigation. There he performed concepting, design, machining, build, and robot programming that would be able to display certain aspects of application technologies for a project, providing the applications team with results the customer could see in operation.
Evan joined the Mission Design & Automation team as an applications engineer in 2024. He now works closely with the sales team and customers to understand their needs and processes to develop an automated solution that achieves their manufacturing goals. While developing the concept, he also quotes the solution to put a price to the project. Evan most enjoys when a concept that has been developed with both the Mission team and the customer together is the best concept to move forward with into production and everyone gets excited about bringing it from concept to reality.
Session(s):
Automation 101: What Careers Actually Look Like | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 3:45 PM (CDT)
CLARISSA SCHWENDEMAN
Director of Marketing
Association for Advancing Automation
Clarissa Schwendeman is Director of Marketing at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), where she leads strategic marketing efforts that drive visibility, engagement, and growth across the organization’s various initiatives, including education, market intelligence, membership and events. She is responsible for shaping integrated marketing strategy across key business priorities, with a focus on strengthening A3’s market presence, expanding audience reach, and ensuring the organization’s programs resonate with both current and future industry stakeholders.
A significant part of Clarissa’s leadership has centered on advancing workforce and community-focused initiatives that support the future of automation. She has helped drive the growth and positioning of A3 NextGen, including mentorship programming, career development resources, and community platforms designed to better connect students, emerging professionals, and industry leaders. Her work reflects a broader commitment to building stronger talent pipelines and creating more intentional pathways for engagement, leadership development, and long-term industry participation.
Session(s):
Mentors, Mistakes & Momentum | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
DYLAN SHANAHAN
Global Training Manager, Americas
Teradyne Robotics
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Dylan Shanahan is the Global Training Manager for the Americas at Teradyne Robotics, a leading manufacturer of robotic arms and automation solutions. With 10 years of experience in automation and extensive work supporting the education market, Dylan specializes in workforce training programs, instructor development, and fostering strategic partnerships between education and industry.
Passionate about advancing technical competencies and raising awareness of automation technologies in education, Dylan plays a pivotal role in integrating emerging trends such as automation competencies into training materials. This forward-thinking approach helps develop unique, real-world solutions that equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving labor market.
Committed to professional development and collaboration, Dylan provides educators with the tools and resources necessary to stay current with industry advancements and effectively prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges.
Dylan holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering, is a member of the ARM Institute’s Endorsement Council, and regularly speaks at industry and education events to share insights on robotics education, curriculum innovation, and workforce development.
Session(s):
Empowering Educators: Training the Trainers in Robotics and Automation | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 12:45 PM (CDT)
JIM SHIMANO
Product Manager, Robotics Marketing
Epson America, Inc.
Jim Shimano has 20 years of experience in the robotics industry as a Product Manager at Epson and as Director of Marketing and Operations at Precise Automation. Additionally, he has 5 years of experience as an instructor at Cerritos College, Fullerton College and UPenn. He holds an MBA from UC Irvine, an MA from the UPenn, and a BS from UCLA.
Session(s):
From STEM to Staff: Leveraging Robot Software to Teach Concepts For All Levels of Education from High School to Trade School and Beyond | Monday, June 22, 2026 - 12:00 PM (CDT)Stories From the Lab: How a Software Centric Approach to Robotics Can Reduce Cost, Stimulate Growth and Mitigate Risk | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 - 1:30 PM (CDT)
ZARREN ZAFIRO
Regional Sales Engineer
LinMot USA
Zarren Zafiro is a Regional Sales Engineer at LinMot USA, specializing in advanced electric linear motion solutions for industrial automation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, giving him a strong foundation in system design, dynamics, and problem-solving skills he leverages to understand customer applications and deliver effective, data-driven solutions. Supporting customers across the Midwest and Southeast, he works closely with OEMs, integrators, and end users to design high-performance motion systems that improve precision, speed, and reliability.
Session(s):
Mentors, Mistakes & Momentum | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 11:15 AM (CDT)
JOHN ZAPPA
Sr. Director of Product Management
ARM Institute
John is the Senior Director of Product Management at the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute. With 30+ years of experience developing software-based services to enable lifelong learning, he is responsible for developing and promoting services that connect people with robotics opportunities in manufacturing.
During his career, he helped to found and serve as CEO of EdLink, LLC a leading provider of tuition assistance management services. Under John’s leadership, EdLink grew to manage over $220 million in education funding and was acquired by the Fortune 500 firm Bright Horizons Family Solutions.
John began his career at IBM implementing robotics as a manufacturing engineer. He received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from Dartmouth College.
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