We are pleased to announce that Jenn Apicella has been named Interim Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN), effective immediately. This role was previously held by Joel Reed who stepped down this week to focus on developing opportunities that will impact the commercialization of robotics solutions. As we bid farewell to Joel, we are grateful for his unwavering commitment and enthusiasm he displayed towards enhancing the Pittsburgh robotics community throughout his tenure. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Jenn Apicella, who has been overseeing the organization’s Programs, Partnerships and Development, is well-poised in this new role to continue to make a strong impact, fostering the growth and development of Pittsburgh's globally recognized robotics sector with the full support of the PRN Board of Directors. 

“I am excited to continue this important work of expanding opportunities for our robotics workforce, companies and ecosystem, allowing our region to directly influence the advancement, adoption and commercialization of robotics worldwide. The Pittsburgh region is an established leader, known around the globe for our excellence in robotics and autonomous systems across multiple industries. I will continue to build on the strong foundation that Joel Reed and his predecessors have already established, catalyzed even further by new programs, partners and strategic alignment with our regional economic development leaders.”

The PRN remains steadfast in its dedication to the Pittsburgh robotics community and the wider region. We are driven by a mission to create more job opportunities, attract more talent, nurture more companies, and stimulate more investments. Every action we take will remain rooted in these guiding principles, with the aim of delivering measurable benefits to the Pittsburgh robotics community, our PRN members, and the entire region.

We are looking forward to unveiling a number of exciting programs, events and other initiatives for 2023 and beyond. The best is yet to come, and we look forward to continuing this work with our supporters, members and partners in our region, and from around the world.