As Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day approaches on November 16, 2023, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) is excited to spotlight opportunities for job seekers at the event. Through the Career Pathways Zone and an enlightening stage program titled "The Humans Behind the Robots," attendees will gain invaluable insights into the dynamic world of robotics, its promising career prospects, and the educational pathways leading to it.

Attendees can experience four unique Discovery Zones — Robotics, Manufacturing, Career Pathways, and Community - with experiences ranging from hands-on demonstrations of advanced robotics technology and next generation manufacturing techniques to exploring career and business opportunities. The Career Pathways Zone specifically provides a wealth of resources for attendees intrigued by a career in robotics. This zone provides a roadmap to the multitude of training and educational resources available to a wide-range of ages and skill levels, illustrating why Pittsburgh is both a source and magnet for the world’s best tech talent. 

On the Main Stage, "The Humans Behind the Robots" is a thoughtfully curated program running from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm, aimed at demystifying the real-world experience of working alongside robots. The agenda kicks off with opening remarks from Jenny Sharpe, Senior Program Manager of Workforce Development of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network, followed by a screening of robotics-focused content created by WQED: Future Jobs aimed at helping people at all stages explore career and training opportunities. Engaging panel discussions will be moderated by Jess Pedersen, former executive from RE2 Robotics featuring early career individuals and organizational leaders from notable robotics companies. The program will culminate with an exciting presentation featuring Pittsburgh-based celebrity roboticists Joe and Don Doefler, two BotsIQ alumni that competed on the popular BattleBots television series.

Panelists from companies such as Aethon, Gecko Robotics, Neya Systems, and Advanced Construction Robotics, among others, will share their career journey stories, as well as  what it’s like getting to work day-to-day  with robots. They will also delve into the educational backbone that propelled them into their current roles, providing a lens into the vibrant career landscape in robotics. Topics will range from keeping pace with the rapid technological advancements to confronting common misconceptions surrounding robotics.

In addition to the stage programming Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day enables engagement with nearly 50 exhibits across the Career Pathways and Community zones. Participating educational institutions within those areas include Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State University, Community College of Allegheny County, and more. Additionally, job seekers can share their resumes and chat with 80+ exhibiting commercial businesses, getting direct access to recruiters and hiring managers.

"We are thrilled to be part of the Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day, a nexus where innovation in robotics and autonomy converges with the abundant talent Pittsburgh is renowned for. Our participation underscores our steadfast commitment to fostering a robust workforce that is adept at navigating the evolving technological landscape,” said Jennifer Lasser, Director of Workforce and Economic Development at the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “The Career Pathways Zone and 'The Humans Behind the Robots' programming resonates with our region’s goal of bridging the skill gap and propelling individuals towards rewarding careers in robotics.”

"Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day is a platform to showcase the multitude of opportunities in robotics available in the Pittsburgh region,” said Jennifer Apicella, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network. “Robotics companies are run by people, and  our region has some of the best and brightest leading the way. Job seekers of all backgrounds can attend the event to learn more about the wide variety of educational and training resources available to explore opportunities for these meaningful careers. This event  can open doors, connect individuals with industry leaders, and demystify the steps needed to enter and excel in the diverse and dynamic world of robotics.” 

Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day is an initiative led by the Pittsburgh Robotics Network in partnership with the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission and the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. The event is supported by the Southwestern Pennsylvania New Economy Collaborative as part of a $62.7 million Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

For further information and to register for the event, visit robopgh.org/discoveryday.