Pittsburgh, PA – October 24, 2023 – The Pittsburgh Robotics Network has just unveiled some great new additions to the upcoming Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day, occurring on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. These new activities are set to offer all attendees valuable opportunities to engage with the cutting-edge robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) advancements burgeoning in the region.
One of the more notable additions is a new Manufacturing Zone, where attendees can delve into Pittsburgh's advanced manufacturing prowess through live demonstrations of state-of-the-art capabilities and innovations. From additive manufacturing to next-generation production techniques, visitors will discover how local manufacturers are both harnessing and shaping revolutionary robotics and automation technologies.
A new main stage has also been added, which will feature programming from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The morning sessions, titled "Humans Behind the Robots," aim to provide attendees with a glimpse into the diverse career pathways available within the robotics realm, as well as an understanding of the day-to-day experiences of professionals in the field.
"Because SAE is a leading professional organization in mobility and robotics, Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day allows us to connect with the local members we serve and help foster the next generation of innovators,” said Allison Hostetler, Director of Community Initiatives at SAE International. “Events like this make the groundbreaking efforts led by members in our own backyard more visible to the Pittsburgh community. With programming like 'Humans Behind the Robotics' aligning with our Foundation’s mission of award-winning STEM education and mentorship through A World In Motion®, we’re excited to partner with the Pittsburgh Robotics Network."
In the afternoon the main stage will host the first Robotics Factory Startup Showcase, which is set to be a cornerstone of the event and will feature pitches from the six pioneering robotics startup companies in the Robotics Factory's inaugural "Accelerate" program cohort. This program, managed by Innovation Works with support from the Pittsburgh Robotics Network, spotlights innovative ideas from emerging startups that are driving the robotics sector forward. The startup showcase will be followed by a Robotics and Tech Happy Hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Among the 120+ exhibitors participating in this year’s event is autonomous vehicle company Aurora, which announced $820 million in new funding earlier this summer, Agility Robotics, which is now now ramping up production of their groundbreaking bipedal robot Digit, and Carnegie Mellon University, a recognized academic leader in robotics and AI. These organizations, and many more, will present live demonstrations showcasing the practical applications and the transformative potential of autonomous solutions.
“Daedalus is excited to be exhibiting at Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day alongside a number of our customers in the robotics community. This event is a gathering place that enables connection and collaboration, inviting others to explore and engage," said Matt Beale, President of the Pittsburgh-based team of researchers, designers, engineers, and Pittsburgh Robotics Network Premier Partner.
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.
“The Build Back Better grant awarded to our region packs transformative power. We’re seeing that play out with progress accelerating around a number of key projects that are advancing robotics and autonomy opportunities for more people and places in the region,” said Allegheny Conference on Community Development Regional Economic Competitiveness Officer Ben Pratt, who guides the strategy developed by the Southwestern Pennsylvania New Economy Collaborative to advance the region’s Built Back Better grant. "Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day 2023 is a dynamic project supported by the grant, and it’s a signature way to showcase – under one roof and for a gathering of thousands – an innovation-driven, high-growth industry for which Pittsburgh is known worldwide. It also provides a platform for presenting the diversity of careers here in the region for those who want to work in robotics and autonomy – either directly or in roles that support it.”
With less than a month to the event, the Pittsburgh Robotics Network encourages all interested individuals to register in advance at robopgh.org/discoveryday. Over 4,000 attendees are expected at the event this year, and all are welcome. Whether you're a business professional seeking valuable connections, a tech aficionado exploring new horizons, or simply a person curious about the robotics and AI advancements shaping our future, Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day promises to be an enriching experience.