High School

In high school, take mathematics (algebra, trigonometry, geometry, calculus), physics, computer science (including programming and computer-aided design), and shop classes to build your analytical and reasoning abilities. Some high schools offer robotics classes or other robotics-related opportunities (clubs, competitions, etc.). If that’s the case at your high school, be sure to get involved. Take English, writing, and speech classes because robotics integrators must be able to effectively explain integration plans to clients or managers (some of whom may be technical neophytes), as well as collaborate with other robotics professionals, technicians, engineers, and IT professionals.

Postsecondary Education

Robotics integrators typically have bachelor’s degrees in robotics, robotics engineering, other engineering fields (e.g., mechanical, mechatronics, electrical, electronics, industrial), computer science, or other information technology–related fields. Those who would like to pursue managerial and executive-level positions often earn master’s degrees in engineering management or business management. You can learn more about robotics training programs by visiting https://www.roboticscareer.org.

Certification

Colleges and universities offer certificate programs in robotics, robotics engineering, robotics and autonomous systems, and related fields. For example, the University of Maryland offers a graduate certificate in robotics to students who complete the following classes: Planning for Autonomous Robots, Introduction to Robot Modeling, Control of Robotic Systems, and Perception for Autonomous Robots. Visit https://robotics.umd.edu/education/graduate-certificate-robotics for more information. Contact schools in your area to learn about in-person, online, and hybrid robotics certificate programs.

Other Education or Training

Participating in continuing education classes is a great way to keep your skills up to date and learn about new developments in robotics. These educational opportunities are provided by professional associations, colleges and universities, and online learning platforms (Udemy, Coursera, etc.).The Association for Advancing Automation offers webinars such as Collaboration and Robotics: The Latest Solutions; Putting Motion Control to Work in Your Production; Smart Automation: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) is Changing Industry Today; and The Integration of AI & Vision Technologies.

Certification or Licensing

The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) offers the voluntary certified robot integrator credential to applicants who pass an examination and meet other requirements. The association says that the credential “distinguishes you not only for your high level of skill and experience but for having met the exacting requirements of A3’s rigorous certification process.” It also provides other credentials such as certified motion control professional, certified vision professional, and certified vision system integrator. Visit https://www.automate.org/a3-content/standards-and-certifications for more information.

Aspiring robotics integrators should obtain several years of experience in robotics and automation in lower-level positions such as robotics technician or robotics specialist. Additionally, they should participate in a robotics internship or other experiential learning opportunity.

Robotics integrators should have a comprehensive understanding of how robots work in order to effectively incorporate them into manufacturing processes. They must have knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and other types of systems.

The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute is an industry organization that has more than 300 member organizations that span industry, government, economic development organizations, and academia. It worked with many of these organizations to identify the following key competencies for robotics integrators:

• augmented reality/virtual reality
• big data systems
• computer programming
• interoperability
• offline programming
• simulation/modeling simulation
• system and process design
• visualization

The ARM Institute and its member organizations also developed a list of essential skills that are needed for a successful career in advanced manufacturing. They are:

• active listening
• adaptability
• attention to detail
• communication
• conflict resolution
• critical thinking
• interpersonal skills
• leadership
• problem solving
• teaming
• technical learning ability
• technology aptitude
• time management
• work Ethic