Universal Robots announces Collaborate North America 2025

Collaborative robot (cobot) provider Universal Robots (UR) recently announced Collaborate North America 2025, a cobot conference and tradeshow. The event will take place in Novi, Mich. Jan. 28, 2025 and will be free to attend.

This one-day, in-person event will bring together over 500 manufacturing professionals from across North America, including automation specialists, educators, and industry thought leaders from institutions and companies such as MIT, Siemens, and the Association for Advancing Automation (A3).

“Whether you’re exploring cobots for the first time or looking to expand your automation capabilities, this event will provide the inspiration, tools, and connections needed to succeed,” said Jonathan Sbert, UR VP of Sales, Americas.

Speakers from A3, Siemens, MIT, and hands-on demos

Hands-On Demonstrations: Attendees will be able to explore over 30 different cobot-enabled systems for applications such as:

• Welding
• Inspection
• Materials handling
• Machine tending
• Assembly
• Painting
• Palletizing

The hands-on demos will be presented by UR and its UR+ ecosystem partners including A.I Automation, Schmalz, Magswitch, PIAB, Zimmer, Schunk, Flexline Automation, Acumino AI, and SICK.

Keynote Presentations: The opening keynote will be delivered by Stacey Moser, UR Chief Commercial Officer. She will be joined by voices from the robotics and automation industry, including a few surprise speakers from automotive and AI chip-making technology companies who will deliver insights on industry trends and practical applications for cobots.

Additional speakers include:

• Ben Armstrong (Executive Director and Research Scientist, MIT): Armstrong specializes in innovation and operational performance in manufacturing, focusing on how companies adopt advanced technologies. His work at MIT involves researching the intersection of robotics, workforce development, and operational efficiency to help enable sustainable growth in the industrial sector.
• Jake Hall (The Manufacturing Millennial): Hall is a prominent advocate for modernizing the manufacturing industry through automation and emerging technologies. Known for his engaging social media presence and thought leadership, he bridges the gap between traditional manufacturing practices and future-forward technologies.
• Alex Shikany (Vice President, Membership & Market Intelligence, A3): Shikany provides data-driven insights to help guide businesses in adopting robotics and AI technologies. His expertise includes market trends, industry growth analysis, and strategies for integrating automation into existing operations.
• Bernd Raithel (Director, Factory Automation, Siemens) Raithel leads the development of advanced automation systems that help drive efficiency and Industry 4.0 adoption. With expertise in robotics, AI, and smart technologies, he focuses on creating intelligent, connected factories. A champion of innovation, Bernd works to accelerate automation adoption and help shape the future of manufacturing.

Networking Opportunities: Attendees will be able to engage with peers, decision-makers, and industry influencers to exchange ideas and foster collaboration.