Dear Partners and Friends,
Robots are everywhere. This industry—now estimated in the billions of dollars—is transforming our day-to-day lives. Organizations in healthcare, manufacturing, consumer, public safety, agriculture and more strategically utilize robotics to enhance their performance. WPI has long been at the forefront of integrated robotics research. Our faculty, students, and alumni are developing innovations that are having an impact on our economy and future. In this newsletter, I’m excited to share a few highlights of how our faculty, students, and alumni are leading in robotics.
We’re also thrilled to host a briefing on May 16 in Washington, DC in cooperation with the Congressional Robotics Caucus to learn more about how universities, corporate and legislative partners can collaborate to ensure that this industry continues to thrive and enhance quality of life. This special event will feature Honorary Host Congressman/Co-Chair of Congressional Robotics Caucus Jim McGovern, keynote remarks from Dr. Susan S. Margulies, Assistant Director of the National Science Foundation, a panel including industry leaders and university researchers moderated by WPI President Grace Wang, and live demonstrations of robotics technologies.
This month, WPI will be at the FIRST Championship events in Houston, Texas. I know many of our partners are also supporters of FIRST. If you or a representative of your organization will be at FIRST in Houston, consider joining us on April 18 at 6:30 pm for a WPI gathering featuring WPI President Grace J. Wang, PhD, who serves on the board of FIRST.
With best wishes,
Kola Akindele
Associate Vice President, External Relations & Partnerships
University Advancement, WPI
