As U.S. manufacturers face rising tariffs and a shortage of low-cost labor, reshoring production is becoming an increasingly viable strategy. But can automation truly bridge the gap? Rodney Brooks, a pioneer in robotics and AI, will discuss the transformative role of robots in reshoring U.S. manufacturing and the critical collaboration between humans and robots that is reshaping the landscape of warehouse operations.

In this session, Brooks will break down the reality of warehouse robotics, separating hype from actionable solutions. While the promise of fully autonomous warehouses is still years away, robots are already augmenting human workers in vital roles, from transport and sorting to reducing operational costs. Brooks will showcase how robots, such as those deployed in warehouses like DHL, are designed not to replace humans but to work alongside them—taking on repetitive, physically demanding, or dangerous tasks and allowing human employees to focus on higher-value work.

Brooks will also address how the integration of smart, hybrid automation strategies can help U.S. manufacturers accelerate the reshoring process. With the right automation technologies, robots will enable companies to meet labor shortages and improve operational efficiency. Through Robots-as-a-Service, companies are now able to scale automation incrementally, ensuring smooth transitions from traditional manual labor to a more collaborative and efficient workforce.

This session will offer a forward-looking perspective on reshoring with robots, highlighting the real-time capabilities of today’s robots and how businesses can leverage human-robot collaboration to unlock the potential of U.S. manufacturing.

Key Takeaways:

• The evolving role of robots in reshoring U.S. manufacturing and warehouse operations.
• How robots are already augmenting human workers in warehouses and what’s next for AI-powered automation.
• Practical insights into deploying hybrid automation models to address labor shortages and improve operational efficiency.
• Realistic timelines for fully automated warehouses and the gradual shift to more collaborative systems.