Robotics Pathways and Careers Speaker Series

Abstract

Data is a key bottleneck to improving the performance of robotic policies. There are multiple potential sources of data, including non-robotic data, teleoperation, instrumented humans, simulation, and on-robot RL. Each source of data has their own advantages and disadvantages, which are sometimes complementary. I will discuss the Robotics and AI Institute’s work in these areas, with a focus on some of our recent results in simulation and on-robot reinforcement learning.

Bio

Karl Schmeckpeper leads the Foundation Models team at the Robotics and AI Institute. Prior to joining the institute, Karl completed a PhD in Computer Science and a Masters in Robotics at the University of Pennsylvania.

Abstract

In this talk, we explore the rapidly evolving landscape of humanoid robotics from an industry lens, focusing on Schaeffler's multifaceted role as a user, integrator, and developer of advanced components and actuators. Drawing on our expertise in precision engineering and automotive technologies, we'll discuss key challenges and innovations in bringing humanoid robots from prototypes to scalable mass production, including actuator design, system integration, and real-world applications in manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond. Emphasizing collaboration, the presentation will highlight how University of Michigan students can contribute through cutting-edge robotics research, capstone projects, and partnerships—potentially accelerating breakthroughs in AI-driven mobility, sensor fusion, and sustainable robotics. Attendees will gain insights into career pathways and ways to align academic pursuits with industry needs, fostering the next generation of roboticists to drive humanoid technology forward.

Bio

Born and raised in Germany, Daniel started his career in Herzogenaurach, at the global Schaeffler headquarters. In 2016 he moved to Troy, MI to work on transmissions and electric axles. He is now manager for R&D and Product for Humanoid robotics at Schaeffler.

Abstract

At Path Robotics, we’re building the future of embodied intelligence. Our AI-driven systems enable robots to adapt, learn, and perform complex manufacturing tasks in the real world, closing the skilled labor gap and transforming industrial production. In this talk, we’ll explore how we taught robots to weld with precision across diverse parts, from a truck chassis to a utility pole to a ship, and how this progress is paving the way toward fully autonomous, learning-driven manufacturing.

Bio

Nima Gard is the Director of AI at Path Robotics, leading the Robot Learning team focused on fine-grained control tasks in manufacturing and weld intelligence. He helped launch the Autonomous Fit-Up system (AF-1), a lights-out robotic assembly and welding solution. Nima holds a PhD in Geodetic Engineering from Ohio State University, where he studied computer vision and deep learning from a geometric perspective.

Abstract

Burro is an autonomous robotics company that helps people in outdoor, unstructured environments. This talk will cover the journey from a handful of prototypes to more than 500 deployed robots, and the key technical challenges we faced in scaling autonomy to the real world.

Bio

Shreshtha completed her M.S in Robotics from the University of Michigan. She has previous experience in building software and AI systems for autonomous robotics applications. She is now the Senior Manager of the Perception, Planning, Controls and AI team at Burro, where she leads the development of navigation and safety features for robots operating in agricultural environments.

Abstract

SpaceX’s Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket – collectively referred to as Starship – represent a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Join Evan and Mitchel to learn more about their journeys to and at SpaceX, the work they currently do in the Starship program, lessons they learned from the University of Michigan, and ask them questions at the end!

Bio

Evan is a Booster Structures Build Engineer at SpaceX, originally from Dallas, TX; he holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Robotics from the University of Michigan. Evan's previous career has spanned a number of past roles in biomedical device manufacturing, electric vehicle design, and marine racing. In his free time, Evan is an avid powerboater.

Abstract

Are Satellites and Robots really all that different? In this talk, Brandon Heidt compares their subsystems and operating environments in a story based on personal experience. Along the way, we'll discover many similarities and some differences in the design and operation of these remotely-controlled vehicles. If you think rovers are the only space robots, we hope you'll leave this discussion with a new perspective on the opportunities available to you in the space industry as a robotics student.

Bio

Brandon Heidt is a Principal Integration & Test Engineer at K2 Space, and University of Michigan alum (BSE Aero/MEng Space Systems '12/'13). Since joining K2 Space in early 2024, Brandon has been instrumental to the maturation of satellite and process design; understanding, simplifying, and automating Space Operations problems across departments and organizations in anticipation of our first satellite launch in Feb 2026. Prior to joining K2, he was deeply involved with the development of the Dragon 1 and 2 spacecraft – delivering results across Integration, Test, Software, and Operations. His exposure to complex problems and experience working across organizations and hierarchies has granted a unique perspective on the meaning of "Integration".

Abstract

MITRE is a not-for-profit organization the operates six Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC) aligned with different government agency sponsors. By law, FFRDCs can’t manufacture produces or compete directly with industry, but MITRE serves in the public interest to bridge government and industry to solve complex national challenges. This discussion will illuminate the unique role FFRDCs span within and across the government, and provide examples of otherwise unsolved problems in robotics and autonomy that MITRE leads. The first case study discusses Digital Copilot, a prototype information system designed to supplement information for general aviation applications. The second case study highlights justified assurance and the process to evaluate if machine learning-enabled capabilities should be designated safe for public use.

Bio

John B Wurts is an autonomous systems engineer at the MITRE corporation and local to Ann Arbor. John primarily supports work programs related to the Department of Defense, but has supported projects related to Federal Aviation Administration and National Science Foundation. Prior to joining MITRE, he completed his PhD from UMich – Mechanical Engineering in 2020 under Prof Tulga Ersal and Prof (Ret) Jeffery Stein. His research focuses on nonlinear optimal control with applications to parallel and GPU-enabled computations. Previously, John was an automotive engineer local to Detroit with interests in active and passive crash safety.

Abstract

While you may have seen promo videos and headlines for humanoid robots, this talk will give an inside perspective on working at one of these startups. Grant will also overview the windy road his career path took to get there–from athletics to aerospace and automotive to Figure AI. His trajectory speaks to the importance of navigating towards passion and curiosity over hype.

Bio

Grant Gibson is a Senior Robotics/AI Engineer on the Locomotion Controls Team at Figure AI. His work focuses on the autonomous locomotion and navigation of their next-gen humanoid robot, Figure 02. He earned his Ph.D in Robotics from the University of Michigan while working with Prof. Jessy Grizzle in the Biped Robotics Lab. Prior to this, he received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Virginia.

Bio

After graduating from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh with a degree in entertainment design then later her masters in puppetry arts from the University of Connecticut, Alyssa found herself taking contract jobs all over the east coast before landing her first full time position in the toy industry. From there, she transitioned into the entertainment industry where she would spend up until recently the majority of her professional career. Alyssa spent years designing, building, and collaborating alongside some of the greatest minds in the respective field and working with almost every major entertainment company across the globe. Now being a part of the University of Michigan, she has a strong focus on hands-on learning and STEAM programs. Alyssa pushes students to take alternative and creative approaches to their research, projects and class work and strives to create safe and inclusive environments where students can foster and grow new ideas.

Bio

Daniel started his journey in robotics at ETH Zurich, earning his Master’s in Robotics, Systems, and Control in 2015 after completing his thesis at JPL in Los Angeles. Inspired by an internship at a Silicon Valley drone startup, he co-founded his first spin-off in drone entertainment before transitioning to drone-enabled automated inventory monitoring with his second robotics startup. Now part of M Robotics, he is passionate about driving value creation and tackling the challenges that come with the rapid growth of the department.

Abstract

How do I decide what career to pursue? What options do I have? When you think “career” it can feel like a big commitment, but what if we could see work differently – as a temporary gift? Along with navigating career path decisions and giving a framework for life outside the University, Michka will highlight KUKA robotics work in automation for the last 120 years. The talk will include what makes KUKA a great company to join, and a deep dive into the surgical robotics space where Michka spends most of his time.

Bio

Michka graduated from Mercer University with a BSE and MSE in Biomedical Engineering, he joined KUKA Robotics as a sales application engineer supporting R&D development in medical device manufacturers. Today, working as an Account Manager, he continues to help companies implement robotics into medical devices and release new products into the market. Michka lives outside Detroit with his wife and three kiddos where he enjoys many activities including working on another master’s degree in his free time.

Abstract

Danny started building drones in 2009 as part of his senior design in Aerospace Engineering at Michigan. While pursuing his Masters degree, Danny and his team joined the Center for Entrepreneurship to try to turn their project idea into a business. Danny will tell the story about how he began as an engineering student working on robots and built SkySpecs into a global leader in wind turbine asset management.

Bio

Danny is a two-time graduate of the University of Michigan with his BSE and MSE in Aerospace Engineering. He cofounded SkySpecs in 2012 and has grown the team to over 250 people worldwide. Danny is a Techstars alum, Forbes’ “30 under 30” award winner, Endeavor Entrepreneur, Detroit Crain’s “40 under 40” winner, 2023 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Regional winner, and 2023 Michigan Entrepreneur of the Year. Danny lives in Ann Arbor with his wife, three daughters, and two dogs.

Recording

Play

Abstract

This talk explores the holistic integration of AI and robotics in modern manufacturing, examining how these technologies complement and enhance each other to create more intelligent and efficient industrial systems. We’ll delve into the dual role of AI - both as the brain-driving robotic systems and as the intelligence layer optimizing broader manufacturing processes. Drawing from real-world implementations, we’ll explore how AI enhances robotic capabilities through improved perception, decision-making, and adaptability while simultaneously orchestrating business systems to streamline operations. The presentation will showcase practical applications ranging from AI-powered quality control and predictive maintenance to advanced human-robot collaboration, demonstrating how this technological convergence is reshaping the future of manufacturing.

Bio

Victorio Pellicano’s journey from a blue-collar background to becoming a pioneering force in AI and manufacturing technology embodies the transformative power of resilience and innovation. Teaching himself to code at age 13, he pursued degrees in Computer Science and Mathematics while working full-time, becoming the first in his family to attend college. After founding Verenia, a manufacturing software company that grew through a “people-first” approach, he led it to a successful acquisition by Oracle in 2022. His current venture, Seraf, is revolutionizing manufacturing operations through advanced AI systems, building upon his experience with Avianna, where he integrated AI into robotics. His unique perspective combines deep technical expertise with practical manufacturing experience, making him particularly attuned to the challenges and opportunities in industrial automation and robotics. Victorio’s approach to technology development is shaped by his background in manufacturing sales and hands-on experience in factory environments. He brings a unique perspective on how AI and robotics can transform manufacturing while empowering workers and improving operational efficiency. His work focuses on creating practical, implementable solutions that bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and real-world manufacturing challenges.

Recording

Play

Abstract

The early 1980’s, when I was a student at the University of Michigan, was the time that industrial robots for material handling, assembly, and inspection were becoming well established in product manufacturing environments. Robotic capabilities have continued to develop and expand into the products themselves, made possible as the enabling technologies have become “retail market mature” in their performance, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. Consumer products apply these technologies to enhance their customer-facing capabilities using robotics technology… and transportation products are no exception. Automobiles have become more technologically advanced and feature-laden, particularly in the areas of active safety systems and varying levels of autonomous operation. In each case the vehicle itself takes over or augments safety-critical tasks that the driver was fully responsible for previously. This has pulled robotics engineering to intersect with the world of automotive product engineering. Both are highly interdisciplinary and require broad thinking to pull it all together as a retail consumer product. Deep technical specialization is also required in critical areas along the engineering supply chain. In this talk I will share my education and career path in the automotive industry, similarities between automotive and robotics engineering, and how today’s robotics engineering education can apply to this industry. I will also discuss some of the skills and behaviors that employers are looking for that we are not directly taught in school. We will also have time for Q&A at the end.

Bio

Andrew J. Farah, most recently the Executive Director of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) at General Motors, has stepped back from his 36-year career with the automaker in September 2023. He has held various leadership positions in Engineering, Planning, and Aftersales. He plans to continue in the industry to advise leaders and businesses, while also focusing on developing the engineering talent that the industry needs today and tomorrow. With over 40 years of total automotive technical and business experience, Mr. Farah has had the opportunity to work on and lead many groundbreaking vehicle programs. He made major contributions to the EV1 electric vehicle as Engineering Manager for Propulsion Software & Controls, the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle as Vehicle Chief Engineer, and the Cruise AV and Cruise Origin as vehicle Chief Technical Architect and program Executive Director. He has also been involved in the automotive launch of several electrical/electronic technologies that are now considered commonplace in the industry. In his most recent ADAS role he was responsible for the development and execution of active safety features, Super Cruise, and Ultra Cruise for GM’s retail and fleet portfolio. Mr. Farah holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering (BSE CE ‘82) and a master’s degree in Electrical Science (MSE ‘84), both from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He is also a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).

Recording

Play

Abstract

In this university talk, we will explore the intersection of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, and how this combination can fuel career growth. Fostering a passion for innovation is crucial in creating impactful projects. We will delve into the importance of seeking out interesting and challenging projects that push the boundaries of what is possible. By actively engaging in hands-on work and building “cool toys,” individuals can showcase their skills and demonstrate their ability to translate ideas into practical applications.

Bio

Demarcus Edwards is a driven and hands-on tinkerer in the field of machine learning (ML) with a strong focus on generative AI. As a Ph.D. candidate, he is on the verge of defending his thesis within the next two weeks. In the private sector, DeMarcus has worked with notable companies such as Google X, Facebook, Netflix, and Apple, where he has worked on a broad range of Applications of AI from Recommendation to Language and Video Generation. His experience includes leading the development of the currently used Graph entity resolution at Netflix, Text to Kinematics sequence modeling systems at Google X, implementing novel attention-based ranking models at Instagram Reels, and designing a 3D perception-based kinematic modeling system for action recognition at Apple. His passion for generative AI has been a driving force in his research and career journey, as he explores the creative potential of AI systems to generate novel and realistic outputs. In the public sector, DeMarcus has contributed his expertise to organizations such as NightVision Research Labs and the DOD Center of AI/ML Excellence. His research in adversarial machine learning, GAN algorithms for infrared imagery, and spectral image recognition has advanced the field and demonstrated his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the industry.

Recording

Play

Abstract

Come learn about Spatial AI at Skydio, including 3D Scan, Skydio’s Visual Positioning System and Onboard 3d modeling, and learn about Karl’s path to working at Skydio, including how working in a lab at UM Robotics played a pivotal role in Karl’s shift from full stack cloud and mobile software engineering to robotics. Karl will detail the latest technology at Skydio, including a live telop demo planning an autonomous mission from over 2000 miles away. Karl will also discuss his career since graduating from U of M Engineering, and give tips for continuing to learn and stay on the cutting edge throughout one’s career.

Bio

Karl is a Software Engineer on the autonomy team at Skydio, where he helps develop Skydio’s Visual Positioning System. Karl graduated from UM with a BSE and MSE in Computer Engineering and started his career at Google working on Adwords and Android before leaving to start his own company in the food / tech space. After continuing to work in that space for a bit, Karl decided to shift gears and get into robotics. This is where U of M came back into the picture, as Karl worked in the UM Ford Center for Autonomous Vehicles as a research engineer, which launched him solidly into the robotics field, first at Toyota Research Engineer (TRI) working on autonomous vehicles, and now Skydio.

Recording

Play

Abstract

How does someone who wanted to be an environmentalist as a high schooler end up dissecting frogs for a PhD in Robotics and then get a type of job he didn’t even know existed? In exploring this story, we will unpack (a) how a chance encounter got me into biorobotics, (b) how thinking of robotics as a human endeavor as opposed to a base of knowledge helped me land a PhD position and make award-nominated contributions to biology, and lastly (c) how a combination of soul searching and connecting with people helped me get unstuck after my PhD and land a job I didn’t even know existed. Ultimately, I hope learning of my journey gives you encouragement to follow your curiosity, hope that things will turn out okay, and some practical tools to soul search if you’re stuck in that process.

Bio

Dr. Laksh Kumar Punith is a Research Investigator in the Neurobionics Lab at the University of Michigan’s Robotics Department. He holds a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (‘15), and a Ph.D. in Robotics from Georgia Institute of Technology (‘22). As a roboticist, Dr. Punith has been fascinated by how animals move so much better than any robots we’ve ever built - all while having hardware that should make their job much harder - namely, slower communication (i.e. neurons), state-dependent actuators (i.e. muscles) and squishy transmission (i.e. tendons). To solve this conundrum, he (1) develops hypotheses of how animals move from comparative biomechanics literature and experiments in the lab and (2) directly tests them by attempting to generate movement in mathematical models and organic robots. He hopes this approach will not only shed light on the basic science of animal locomotion, but also serve as an accelerant to build better organic and inorganic robots.

Recording

Play

Abstract

In his talk, Matthew Dreisbach focuses specifically on his time as an undergrad, sharing the decisions made outside-the-classroom that helped him build a career in robotics. From networking to job hunting Matthew shares personal examples of what worked and what failed. Following his journey from undergrad-interested-in-robotics to software-engineer Matthew shares skills and tips to build a career in the growing, fun and impactful field of robotics.

Bio

Matthew is a Software Engineer at Woven By Toyota (Formerly: Toyota Research Institute), where he develops large-scale SLAM algorithms with a superb team. As a UM alumnus, BSE in Computer Science (2018) and Masters in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a focus on Robotics (2020), he was among the first employees at Mcity, an autonomous vehicle test track.

Recording

Play

Abstract

Robots are the key to exploring our Solar System and beyond. For decades, we’ve sent robotic spacecraft to our planetary neighbors and other bodies to understand essential scientific questions: How did the planets come to be? Is there or has there been life elsewhere? What else is out there? In this talk, I will speak about the next step in understanding one of our nearest neighbors, Mars, through a multi-spacecraft, multi-robot mission to return martian samples back to Earth for the first time ever. I will be discussing how we go about tackling such a massive engineering challenge, how I learned the skills to do so at Michigan, and how you can too.

Bio

Karthik is currently a Mechatronics Engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) building actuators for Mars robots. Before JPL, he earned a MS in Robotics (2021), BSE in Computer Engineering (2020), and BSE in Mechanical Engineering (2020) at University of Michigan. At the University, Karthik also spent two years as a Research Assistant in EMBiR Lab under Prof. Talia Moore building legged robots and actuators; instructed ME350 as a GSI and IA for seven semesters; and worked on the MRover project team in various capacities for four years. His interests lie in robotic mechanism design, actuation, system identification, and control.

Recording

Play

Abstract

Michigan Grad and Video Game producer Leon Pryor has combined a lifelong interest in robotics with a desire to promote better outcomes in Detroit. Learn how he’s working to change the culture of STEM in Detroit through competitive FIRST robotics.

Bio

Leon Pryor received his B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in 1997. After graduating from Michigan, Leon joined Microsoft, where he helped launch the Xbox and Xbox 360 game consoles and dozens of games from Electronic Arts, Microsoft Game Studios, Disney, and Lucasarts. Leon is currently a Senior Video Game Producer for META’s(Facebook) reality lab group, building games for Augmented and Virtual Reality headsets. Outside work, Leon is a passionate advocate for STEM enrichment in Detroit, Michigan, where he co-founded the Motor City Alliance: A non-profit organization that supports over 100 robotics teams in Detroit in after-school programs, summer camps, and FIRST Robotics competitions. Leon is also the coach of two FIRST Robotics teams: FIRST Robotics Challenge team 8280 K9.0 Robotics from the School at Marygrove and FIRST Tech Challenge team 14010 TechnoPhoenix from the Foreign Language Immersion and Cultural Studies school. Team TechnoPhoenix recently made history as the first Detroit Public school to qualify for the World Championships. Additionally, Leon was recognized as the Michigan State FIRST Robotics Coach of the Year and was runner-up for the award at the World Championships in Houston, TX.

Recording

Play

Abstract

I will share my career journey in robotics, and how I become a research scientist at J.P. Morgan, while continuing to contribute to robotics. I started off in computer vision during undergrad. Soon I came to realize robotics is my true passion where perception and action come together to close the loop. I focused on perception for manipulation and active vision for object retrieval during my Ph.D., and have been continuing my robotics research through collaborations with Prof. Chad Jenkins. At J.P. Morgan AI Research, I have been finding more connections between Robotics and Finance and promoting the presence of women in AI. I will share insights that helped me through my journey. And I would like to quote Dr. Fauci, “expect the unexpected and stay heads up for an unanticipated opportunity should it present itself.”

Bio

Dr. Zhen Zeng is currently an AI Research Scientist on the AI Research team at J.P. Morgan. Her research interests are semantic robot programming, perception for mobile manipulation, and novel representations of financial data. She received her Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 2020. She worked in the Laboratory for Progress with her advisor Prof. Chad Jenkins. Her research focused on enabling users to program the world through a mobile agent through robot programming by demonstration, semantic mapping, and active vision. Her research motivation is rooted in assisting people with impaired physical mobility to live independent lives with dignity. At J.P. Morgan AI Research, she works on unique ways of visually interpreting financial data and activities, and is active in promoting the presence of women in the field of AI.

Abstract

A quick overview of my career in robotics ranging from unicorn start ups to big companies featuring lessons learned the easy and hard way.

Bio

I got my Master’s from the UofM in Robotics and Autonomous Vehicles back in 2012 and after that I started my PhD soon after started collaborating with Cruise Automation in 2015. I was with Cruise working on the planning stack as it grew from 15-20 people all the way up through the acquisition into the 2000-ish people company in 2020. After that, I had a small stint at Robust AI working on collaborative robotics. Nowadays I’m at Nvidia - back in the AV world! - where I lead the Low Speed Maneuvers Group that deals with driving around in unstructured environments close to people and objects!

Recording

Play

Abstract

Do you want to know how a foreigner comes to the US to study Robotics, cracks all the FAANG interviews, and then becomes a roboticist working at Google? Are you also wondering how an interview process looks like and how to prepare for the interview? Come check it out and we will show you how!

Bio

Bruce earned his Ph.D. in Robotics at the University of Michigan (UofM), Ann Arbor. He received a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering at National Taiwan University and an MS degree in Robotics at U-M in 2018. He worked in the Biped Robotics Lab under the supervision of Professor Jessy W. Grizzle. His research focused on autonomy of bipedal robots, encompassing sensor fusion, pose estimation, and motion planning. He was in charge of building a full stack of autonomy pipeline for the system integration of Cassie Blue, a bipedal robot with 20 degrees of freedom.

Recording

Play

Abstract

Dr. Hambuchen will discuss needs for robotics in future NASA missions, including the upcoming Artemis missions; current and previous technology development to meet these needs; and how academic and commercial space technology development is closing NASA robotics exploration gaps. Dr. Hambuchen will highlight robotics for NASA’s human exploration objectives, with a focus on the operation environments that are unique to NASA.

Bio

Dr. Kimberly Hambuchen currently serves as the acting Deputy Manager for the Systems Engineering and Integration Office of the International Space Station Program. As SE&I deputy manager, she oversees the performance of the ISS including robotics, modeling, safety, and mission success. Previously, she served as the chief of the Robotic Systems Technology Branch at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where she directed the development of advanced robotic technologies for space exploration missions. Prior to this, she was the Principal Technologist for Robotics in NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate’s (STMD) serving as the STMD technical expert and advocate for robotics across all NASA centers for STMD programs. During her 20-year career as a robotics engineer at Johnson Space Center, Dr. Hambuchen developed human-robot interaction techniques and tools for the Robonaut and Centaur robots, the Space Exploration Vehicle (SEV), and bipedal humanoid, Valkyrie (R5), among many others. Dr. Hambuchen was a member of the International Space Exploration Coordination Group’s (ISECG) Telerobotics Gap Assessment team, providing gap analysis in the field of operating space robots for the international space community, and in 2016 was named “One of the 25 Women in Robotics to Know” by RoboHub.

Abstract

Fault detection, Isolation and Response (FDIR) as well as Safety for critical autonomous systems is highly ambiguous given that standards are being written as we are developing products and the process to certify them. Defining the FDIR and safety systems for these products becomes even more complex when they are operating in an unstructured environment able to move freely amongst and/or provide critical services for people. In this talk Nia Jetter will discuss her journey through 20 years as an Aerospace Engineer specializing in Autonomy and AI and her current career in Robotics at Amazon. She will also present a framework for architecting autonomy for critical systems independent of product and focused on how the user interacts with the product.

Bio

Nia Jetter is passionate about changing the world through innovation, technology planning, teaching, mentoring and solving tough problems in Autonomy and AI that can be applied across different platforms. She has a dedicated focus on helping people who may not have easy access to educational materials to understand topics like artificial intelligence. Nia is enthusiastic about working the human-AI interface as artificial intelligence is further integrated into our society. Nia is an Aerospace Engineer who has 20 years of experience in the Aerospace Industry and has supported a variety of programs across the product-lifecycle from design and development to mission and anomaly resolution and through customer delivery and support. In January 2021, Nia left the Aerospace Industry as a Technical Fellow to join Amazon as a Senior Principal Technologist for Robotics AI. In this role she is a leader in technical development for autonomy as well as strategic planning for robotics and other autonomous applications. Nia has a bachelor’s degree in Math with Computer Science and a minor in Earth Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences from MIT as well as a Master’s Degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Stanford. Nia enjoys reading (especially science fiction), astronomy, baking, travelling, dancing and creating short videos that break down complex topics like AI and explains them simply for her YouTube channel (Thinque Bytes).

Recording

Play

Abstract

I will cover my career journey in the field of mobile robotics. I started off in the area of simultaneous localization and planning (SLAM) for my PhD work as applied in the area of marine robotics. This then grew into working with Autonomous Underwater Vehicles for automated ship hull inspection as well as marine science. I then moved into perception, planning, and prediction for automated driving and have spent over 15 years working in the area. Along my journey, my personal philosophy toward my career has been: First – Follow serendipity, Second – Luck favors the prepared, and Finally – Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. This talk will cover my career journey and insights into how that philosophy has led me through it.

Bio

Dr. Ryan Eustice is a Professor at the University of Michigan (UM) and the Senior Vice President of Human-Centered AI, Human Interactive Driving, and Tech Adoption at the Toyota Research Institute (TRI). Dr. Eustice received a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology / Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Joint Program in Ocean Engineering in 2005 and was a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at Johns Hopkins University. He joined the faculty at the University of Michigan in 2006 in the Department of Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering. He also holds an appointment as a core Robotics faculty member in the newly formed Robotics Department and remains the Director of the Perceptual Robotics Laboratory (PeRL) at UM. Dr. Eustice is perhaps best known for his work in advancing large-scale simultaneous localization and mapping, including visual mapping of the RMS Titanic. He has published over 160 technical papers, is the recipient of an NSF CAREER award and ONR Young Investigator Award, has been an Associate Editor for IEEE Transactions on Robotics, IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters, and IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering, and is widely cited in the mobile robotics literature. He was a core member of Team IVS in the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge (one of 11 finalist teams). He worked collaboratively with Ford Motor Company for over a decade in self-driving vehicle research as a PI at the University of Michigan before going on leave in 2016 to launch TRI and lead the Automated Driving Division prior to taking on his current role at TRI since May 2022.

Recording

Play

Abstract

The next generation of manufacturing will be driven by advances in process automation for all areas of manufacturing – material delivery, inventory management, assembly, cleaning, inspection, fleet management, smart infrastructure, and facility mapping. Areas such as material handling are growing extremely fast outside of automotive, largely driven by warehouse and delivery management from online ordering businesses, enabled by advances in key robotics technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, batteries, wireless communication, sensors, perception and control algorithms, and open-source software frameworks. This talk will elaborate on the current and future states of advanced manufacturing within the automotive industry and my journey to get there.

Bio

Mario Santillo received the B.S. degree in Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 2003, and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan in 2005 and 2009, respectively. Mario currently leads the robotics research efforts within Ford Motor Company’s Research & Advanced Engineering Organization, where he focuses on the development and application of advanced control methods and artificial intelligence algorithms to next-generation robotic technologies in manufacturing and package-delivery automation.