In a significant move for the field of robotics and automation, the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) presented its vision for a national robotics strategy to the U.S. Congress on March 26. This strategic framework aims to ensure that the United States not only maintains but also strengthens its position as a global leader in robotics and automation technologies.
As discussions around artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly dominate policy agendas, A3 underscores the critical need to focus on the tangible applications of AI, particularly in robotics. The vision outlined six key policy priorities that will serve as a road map for U.S. leadership in the robotics sector.
- Establish a central government robotics office and a robotics commission. This initiative proposes the creation of a dedicated federal office responsible for coordinating robotics policy, innovation and collaboration across various sectors. The addition of a robotics commission, composed of appointed leaders from industry and academia, is aimed at formulating effective policy recommendations to assert U.S. leadership in the robotics field, bolstering economic and national security.
- Implementation of tax incentives to drive adoption. To stimulate investment and innovation in robotics, A3 advocates for tax credits and other financial incentives that encourage businesses to adopt robotic technologies.
- Government as a leading adopter. The strategy calls for federal agencies to act as exemplar users of robotic technologies, integrating them into their operations to set a precedent for the private sector.
- Expansion of workforce training programs. Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce, A3 stresses the importance of investing in STEM education and upskilling initiatives designed to prepare workers for automation-driven industries.
- Funding for academic research and commercial innovation. Strengthening public-private partnerships is fundamental for driving breakthroughs in robotics. A3 calls for increased funding to support research and innovation in academic settings that can translate into commercial advancements.
- Development of new industry standards. To ensure safe and effective deployment of AI -powered robotics, there is a pressing need to modernize industry standards.
“For mechanical and design engineers, robotics and automation are no longer optional—they are essential for maintaining efficiency, precision and competitiveness,” A3’s President Jeff Burnstein told Machine Design. “We’re already seeing advanced robotics streamline aircraft assembly, enable high-precision surgical device manufacturing and improve automated quality control in industrial production.
“However, without strong national leadership in robotics, the U.S. risks falling behind in these critical sectors,” he continued. “By prioritizing automation, we can ensure that engineers have access to the latest technologies, from AI-driven robotic arms to next-generation collaborative robots, helping them design and build the future of manufacturing.”
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A3’s proposal for a cross-government task force highlights the necessity of coordinated efforts across agencies and industries. The suggested robotics commission mirrors previous government appointed commissions focused on technology sectors such as AI, cybersecurity and biosecurity, ensuring comprehensive attention to robotics.
Brendan Schulman, chair of the A3 Advocacy Committee and vice president of policy and government relations at Boston Dynamics said in a press release, “With recent advances, including the rapid integration of AI functionality, robots are becoming increasingly capable and essential in industries that will face worker shortages due to demographic changes.” Shulman praised A3 and the advocacy committee members for crafting a detailed policy framework aimed at achieving global leadership.
“The United States is at a critical moment in shaping the future of automation,” Burnstein said in a press release. “While AI is a major focus, we cannot afford to fall behind in robotics. Our vision for our national strategy provides a road map for strengthening U.S. competitiveness, innovation and workforce readiness.”
