Two weeks after wrapping up Automate 2025 in Detroit, the Hellbender team is still processing the energy, ideas, and relationships sparked across the show floor. With more than 40,000 attendees, Automate once again brought together the people and technologies defining the next chapter in automation, robotics, and AI integration.
Pittsburgh on the Global Stage
As part of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network showcase, we were proud to stand alongside a group of companies helping to elevate Pittsburgh’s role in shaping the future of robotics. There’s a growing awareness that the region isn’t just a hub for robotics R&D—it’s also where real products are being built, tested, and deployed. That energy was evident in Detroit, and it was rewarding to see the industry take notice.
Real-World AI Vision Conversations
Throughout the week, we had countless meaningful conversations with engineers, developers, and executives from industries as varied as transportation, retail automation, advanced manufacturing, and smart infrastructure. What stood out most was a shared recognition: AI computer vision is no longer a side project or a pilot—it’s becoming core to how modern systems operate.
“We’re seeing a real shift in the industry mindset—from viewing AI vision as experimental to understanding it as foundational,” said Adela Wee, Chief Innovation Officer at Hellbender. “At Automate, it was clear: AI is no longer an add-on or future ambition. It’s a requirement for staying competitive today.”
That sentiment came through across industries—from factory floors exploring in-line vision systems to retailers thinking differently about perception and tracking in physical environments.
Moments That Stood Out
Some of our favorite moments weren’t about technology at all—they were about people. Whether it was reconnecting with longtime collaborators or meeting face-to-face with teams we’ve only worked with remotely, Automate offered a rare chance to step out of the day-to-day and engage as part of a broader community.
We also appreciated the chance to explore new technologies, from advances in LIDAR and optics to unexpected innovations in edge AI, robotics platforms, and component design. It’s not every day you find yourself in the same building as aerospace companies, machine builders, grocery automation startups, and robotics researchers—each pushing their own corner of the field forward.
Looking Ahead
We left Detroit with plenty to think about: How are standards evolving in machine vision? What expectations are emerging around on-edge processing? Where do our systems fit—and where do they need to evolve?
What’s clear is that shows like Automate aren’t just about demonstrating what’s possible; they’re about aligning the industry around what’s needed next. We’re grateful to have been a part of that conversation and are looking forward to staying in it throughout 2025.
