The UK’s leading centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, The National Robotarium, has launched a free professional development programme for businesses looking to adopt robotic technologies into their operations.

The Robotics Readiness Workshops, starting on 27 February and running throughout 2025, will offer industry leaders – from SMEs to global corporations – practical tips and expert advice to help them advance and de-risk the adoption of robotic, AI and automated systems into their business.

 

Since opening in September 2022, The National Robotarium has worked with a variety of industry clients, from sectors including offshore energy, healthcare, security, food and drink, and agriculture, creating new robotic solutions that can address labour shortages, improve efficiencies and reduce harm to the environment. Robotics and co-bots (humans and robots working together) can also improve working conditions for staff, easing workloads and removing them from hazardous environments.

Participants will attend a half-day workshop our award-winning centre for robotics and AI

Participants on the programme will attend a half-day workshop at The National Robotarium, a Data-Driven Innovation hub at Heriot-Watt University, funded in partnership with The University of Edinburgh as part of the £1.5bn Edinburgh and South-East Scotland City Region Deal, after which they can continue their robotics adoption journey at the award-winning facility with access to cutting-edge labs and technology, engineering expertise, and business development support.

Prior to the workshop, they will have the opportunity to assess their existing understanding of robotic or autonomous technologies, allowing The National Robotarium delivery team to create a bespoke robotics roadmap, tailored to their sector, company size and business goals.

Business Development Executive Naomi Battison has led on the creation of the Robotics Readiness programme

Naomi Battison is a Business Development Executive at The National Robotarium and has led on the development of the Robotics Readiness programme. She said:

“We know that greater adoption of robotic and automated technologies can transform industries, improving efficiencies, supporting staff workloads and undertaking jobs that are no longer attractive or safe for humans.

“However, we also know that it’s difficult for traditional sectors to know what robotic systems are best for their business without testing them alongside their existing infrastructure and workforce.

“The National Robotarium’s Robotics Readiness Workshops are designed to help businesses understand how to integrate robotics effectively, providing bespoke tools to guide them on their journey.”

Stewart Miller is Chief Executive Officer at The National Robotarium and a leading voice in UK Robotics.

He said: “Private companies require accessible routes to adopt and integrate robotics technologies that boost productivity and overcome labour shortages.

“However, as is the case with any new technology, the initial investment may be prohibitive to businesses who aren’t yet sure what would work best for them and, up to this point, there is no government commitment to underwrite or support greater investment in robotics for the private sector.

“Our aim with our Robotics Readiness course is to remove this – often expensive – ‘trial and error’ element and instil confidence in business leaders to take their first, or next, step into robotics and automation, and help them future-proof their operations.

“The programme is also an integral component of our strategic vision to ensure the UK is equipped with the skills, technology and infrastructure to keep up with its global competitors capabilities, boosting productivity and economic growth.”

Find out more about the Robotics Readiness Workshops and register via Eventbrite.