Building Trustworthy Robots: Insights from the 2026 Robotics Summit

This May, the Robotics Summit & Expo 2026 is set to kick off in Boston, diving headfirst into the world of robotics development. The event promises a wealth of knowledge, particularly for those keen on understanding how to build robots that can be trusted at scale.

Why Trust Matters

For robots to thrive in places like warehouses and factories, they need to do more than just function. They must be reliable. Why? Because a single malfunction can halt operations, causing costly delays. Trust isn't just about uptime, it's about consistency and predictability in performance.

The opening keynote, 'Building Reliable Robots at Scale,' will address just that. Featuring voices from Amazon Robotics, Locus Robotics, QNX, and Universal Robots, attendees can expect an unvarnished look at the complexities of robotics development.

The Experts Speak

Among those sharing their wisdom will be Anders Billesø Beck of Universal Robots. With over two decades of experience in automation, Beck is a key player in shaping how robots integrate with human workforces. His insight into AI and product strategy is invaluable for developers seeking to innovate. I talked to the people who actually use these tools, and they echo the importance of adaptability in robotics.

Then there's Jasmine Lombardi from Locus Robotics, a leader in customer success. Her focus on operational excellence makes her the perfect guide for navigating the complexities of real-time robotics workloads. The gap between the keynote and the cubicle is enormous, and Lombardi's insights are critical for bridging that gap.

Finally, Aaron Parness from Amazon Robotics and John Wall from QNX will provide additional perspectives on how AI enables robots to understand and navigate their environments effectively. They’ll discuss the importance of time-to-market strategies and how certified safety processes can speed up this journey.

The Big Picture

So, why should you care? The robotics industry isn't just about cool gadgets and futuristic tech. It's about redefining how work gets done. Companies that master robotics see improvements in efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The real story is how these advancements will change work.

But let's not get ahead of ourselves. While the summit will undoubtedly showcase innovation, the question remains: how will these companies ensure that their robots aren't just reliable, but also welcomed by the workforce? Management bought the licenses. Nobody told the team. It's a pressing issue that deserves attention.

As the Robotics Summit unfolds, keep an eye on the discussions around upskilling and workforce planning. These will be key as robots take on more roles traditionally held by humans. After all, the robots of tomorrow need to work for us, not the other way around.