Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, both in terms of hardware and software (including AI). Michigan has stepped up to become a leader in robotics development, and a Switzerland-based company called ABB is banking on exactly that.
Here are Five Fast Facts on robots in Michigan:
- 🤖 It’s Alive! - ABB recently opened a $20 million expansion of its robotics headquarters in the US, located right here in Auburn Hills. It’s the result of increasing global demand for more automation in industries like manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. Move over, Skynet…
- 📈 Increased Complexity - Not only is there more demand for robots, but they’re becoming capable of far more complex tasks. It’s not just moving boxes and heavy things, now robots are using the latest in AI software to do things like DNA tests and dispensing medication in pharmacies. Sure, but can they make an omelet? THAT would be impressive.
- 💰 By The Numbers - ABB is a $30+ billion company and employs 18,000 workers in America, its biggest market. The robotics division makes almost $4 billion and makes 90% of the robots it sells to North and South America. That’s a lotta robots!
- 🤜🤛 Expand Your Mind (And Business) - The newest expansion in Auburn Hills increased manufacturing capacity by 30% and gave it more flexibility to meet market demands. It also included improvements to customer experience and internal training.
- 👍 For The Win - The expansion landed in Michigan because the auto sector embraced automation years ago and has continued pushing to automate and innovate so there’s a deep talent pool here. Also, we’re awesome.
🔥Bottom line: This is a great thing for jobs and the local economy! It’s great to see the investments made over the past few years providing great returns, particularly in a high tech space like robotics. At least until the robots rise up and take over everything, that is. But we’re pretty sure that’s still a long way off.
Do you know anyone in robotics?
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