Webinar to discuss how FCC robotics ruling impacts automation buyers
Vecna Robotics makes its systems in the United States and is not directly affected by the FCC ruling. Credit: Eugene Demaitre
In July, the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, said it had determined that certain foreign-made advanced robots pose a competitive and cybersecurity risk to the United States. It restricted imports of new models of advanced robotic devices, including mobile robots and legged robots.
What should companies considering purchasing such robots do? What are some of the concerns around design, deployment, and ongoing support?
Leaders from Vecna Robotics, Locus Robotics and the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) will discuss the practical implications of the commission’s decision in a free webinar at 2pm ET on Tuesday 27 October 2026. Speakers will examine how connected systems differ from traditional automation.
Webinar attendees will also be able to learn how companies can assess the long-term sustainability of their investments in robotics. They will hear perspectives on strengthening supply chains, questions buyers should ask their technology suppliers, and what the changing landscape could mean for the U.S. robotics industry.
Register now to learn about the implications of FCC policy
The webinar will also help participants:
- Identify which types of robots and companies are affected by the FCC’s action
- Understand the intent behind the restriction and other U.S. policies under consideration, such as tariffs
- Build acquisition, implementation and service strategies for resilience
- Track how the robotics ecosystem is reacting to US and competitive challenges
- Be aware of regulatory efforts in addition to regulatory changes
- Look at long-term trends in automation
Register now to attend this webinar, sponsored by Vecna Robotics. Speakers will answer questions during the live broadcast, which will subsequently be available on request to subscribers.
Information about the webinar speakers
Karl Iagnemma is CEO of material handling systems provider Vecna Robotics Inc. He holds a Ph.D. from MIT and was director of the MIT Robotic Mobility Group.
Iagnemma previously founded nuTonomy, the world’s first venture-backed driverless car software company, which was acquired by Aptiv for $450 million. Under his leadership, nuTonomy was transformed into Motional, a $4 billion joint venture with Hyundai Motor Co.
Karl brings with him to Vecna extensive experience in scaling robotics companies, from research to commercialization.
Rick Faulk is CEO of warehouse automation provider Locus Robotics Corp. He leads his executive team with more than 30 years of executive management, sales and marketing experience for some of the world’s most successful technology companies, such as Cisco, Intronis, j2 Global, WebEx, Intranets.com, Barracuda Networks, Lotus Development, Mzinga and PictureTel.
Faulk leads the executive team at Locus Robotics and is responsible for the company’s overall strategy and execution. Rick currently sits on various boards of directors and is an advisor to numerous companies, including Retrocausal, Arccos, Cybernetix Ventures, and Leading Edge Ventures. Past board positions include Yodle, Virtual Computer, Bidding for Good, Skill Survey, Influitive, Ntirety, Blue Raven and Centive.
Aaron Prather is director of market intelligence at the Association for Advancing Automation. Leads the organization’s efforts to transform raw market data into actionable insights that support executive leadership’s strategic decision making.
With a focus on the robotics and automation industry, Prather helps build a consistent understanding of industry trends, enabling confident and informed business strategies.
With more than two decades of experience, Aaron has contributed to the advancement of automation, robotics and operations management through roles that emphasize research and development, standardization and strategic planning.
Before working for Arrowfly, he was an editor at BNA (now part of Bloomberg), Computer worldTechTarget e Robotics Business Review. Demaitre has attended conferences around the world and has spoken on numerous webinars and podcasts. He recently led a discussion on reshoring at RoboBusiness 2026.
Gene is always interested in learning more about robotics. He has a master’s degree from George Washington University and lives in the Boston area.
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