Ted Larson

In a world where software dominates the headlines, robotics remains one of the few industries where hardware still truly matters. Drawing on over two decades of experience helping companies from startups to Fortune 500s bring their ideas to life, Ted will share what makes a great robotics company and what separates successful robots from those that never make it past the prototype stage. This session explores how the best robotics companies think about design, collaboration, and manufacturability from day one. Attendees will learn why hardware and software must evolve together, how to avoid common design mistakes that can derail even the most promising projects, and what qualities to look for in a reliable robotics development partner. Packed with real-world examples and practical lessons, this talk offers a clear roadmap for building robots that don’t just work in the lab, but thrive in the real world.