The Pittsburgh Technology Council's membership includes the most dynamic companies in the region solving the world's toughest problems. Our new Fireside Chats, hosted by our VP of Communications and Media Jonathan Kersting, takes a closer look at our member companies pushing the technological and innovation envelopes.
Kersting had the opportunity to sit down with Reeg Allen, the visionary behind Journey Robotics. Their discussion reveals the pioneering work of Journey Robotics in redefining airport automation, specifically focusing on the cumbersome task of baggage handling.
Airlines in the US handle more than 500 million bags annually, presenting not just a logistical nightmare but a significant risk of injury and error. Allen paints a clear picture of the repetitive and hazardous nature of manual baggage handling, with injury rates as high as 18% among airline workers. The challenge is vast, and the need for innovation is pressing.
Journey Robotics is at the forefront of transforming this landscape. Their approach to airport automation involves alleviating the physical constraints on workers by leveraging cutting-edge robotics technologies. By removing the heavy lifting and repetitive tasks from human shoulders, Journey aims to enhance efficiency and safety in airports, allowing personnel to focus on more complex problem-solving.
Allen is no stranger to robotics. With a robust background at one of Pittsburgh's most renowned robotics firms, RE2 Robotics, Allen transferred his expertise and experience to establish Journey Robotics. During a global survey by Singapore’s Changi Airport, known for being one of the world’s busiest, the need for automation was clear, inspiring Allen to pursue aviation robotics further. Following a strategic pivot by Sarcos, the successor of RE2 Robotics, Allen seized the chance to carve out a niche in aviation robotics.
Why Pittsburgh? Some of the finest minds in robotics and AI are concentrated in this city, thanks to institutions like Carnegie Mellon University. Pittsburgh not only furnishes the talent pool but also offers an unrivaled support network through organizations like the Pittsburgh Technology Council and the Pittsburgh Robotics Network. The unique synergy in Pittsburgh makes it a prime location for launching and nurturing robotics startups like Journey Robotics. Allen credits much of the company’s accelerated progress to these incredible resources and networks within the region.
As Journey Robotics prepares to make its innovative solutions operational at Pittsburgh's airport, their ambition is to showcase these advancements during the World Innovation Summit. This event, a confluence for airlines worldwide, offers a massive stage for Journey to demonstrate Pittsburgh’s prowess in technology on a global scale.
Allen’s success is not just a solo endeavor. His team comprises skilled professionals from RE2 Robotics, each bringing invaluable experience in product development, mobile manipulation, and more. Coupled with marketing expertise from veterans like Jess Pedersen, Journey Robotics is well-equipped to lead the charge in aviation automation.
Journey Robotics epitomizes the spirit of innovation that defines Pittsburgh. The acknowledgment by the Business Times as a startup to watch reinforces their position as a leader in aviation robotics. As they journey forward, their impact seems destined to expand beyond baggage handling, making airports more efficient and safe worldwide. This is not just the story of a budding startup but also the tale of a city revolutionizing the tech landscape. As Journey Robotics embarks on this exciting venture, they invite enthusiasts and supporters to follow their progress, all born from the heart of Pittsburgh.