Automate 2025 Sets Record for Robotics and Automation Growth!

The 2025 edition of Automate, held from May 12–15 at Huntington Place in Detroit, Michigan, achieved new milestones, marking the largest and most successful event in North America’s history of robotics and automation trade shows. Organized by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), the event attracted over 45,000 registrants from around the world, accompanied by more than 900 exhibitors—both of which represent the highest figures in the show’s history.

This year, Automate expanded to occupy both the main and lower levels of the convention center, reflecting a remarkable 50% increase in attendance compared to the previous Detroit-based edition in 2023. According to A3, this surge in participation demonstrates the growing significance of robotics and automation technology across industries and highlights their increasing adoption in the global economy.

Jeff Burnstein, president of A3, expressed his enthusiasm: “The growth of Automate demonstrates the increasing relevance of robotics and automation technology across industries. We are seeing more interest than ever before from companies around the world.”

The event featured influential keynote speakers, including Brad Holmes from the Detroit Lions, Deepu Talla from NVIDIA, Aamir Paul from Schneider Electric, and Ujjwal Kumar from Teradyne Robotics. These speakers shared their insights into the latest industry trends, leadership in automation, and the future of AI-integrated robotics, providing valuable perspectives on the direction of the field.

One of the highlights of Automate 2025 was the Automate Startup Challenge, where early-stage robotics companies competed in a pitch contest. Kinisi, a company specializing in autonomous humanoid robots, was awarded the $10,000 prize for its innovative work. This competition showcased the growing importance of innovation in shaping the future of robotics.

The event also honored leaders in robotics through the Engelberger Robotics Awards. This year’s recipients were Stuart “Stu” Shepherd from Shepherd Solutions Inc. for leadership and Dr. Peter Corke from Queensland University of Technology for his contributions to education. These awards are recognized globally as the highest honors in the robotics field.

Automate 2025 introduced the Automate Student Challenge and added dedicated programming at the Education Pavilion. Students engaged in competitions and career exploration, while educators attended sessions to earn continuing education credits. Dr. Jeritt Williams from Illinois State University was recognized as the Educator of the Year for his contributions to the field.

A notable feature of this year’s event was the Women’s Empowerment Forum, which included a networking and professional development breakfast session aimed at advancing the role of women in the automation industry. The conference also attracted over 900 attendees who participated in more than 200 expert-led sessions, focusing on topics like AI, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and smart manufacturing. Attendees also explored emerging technologies such as digital twins, humanoid robotics, and AI agents.

Looking forward, Automate 2026 is scheduled to take place from June 22–25 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. Automate 2027 will be hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada, marking the first time the event will be held in the city. With exhibitors already committing to 33% more floor space for 2026 compared to the previous cycle, the future of Automate looks brighter than ever, with momentum continuing to build in the robotics and automation sectors.