Robotics | Deep tech | Investment | Ecosystem | Ethics | Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity | Subscribe to Robots&Startups at 249x.substack.com
Andra Keay is a prominent figure in the robotics industry, known for her leadership, advocacy, and expertise in emerging technologies. Her career spans over two decades, during which she has made significant contributions to the field of robotics and its intersection with society.
Professional Career
Silicon Valley Robotics Keay has been the Managing Director of Silicon Valley Robotics since 2011. In this role, she has been instrumental in:
- Promoting the robotics and AI ecosystem in Silicon Valley and beyond
- Facilitating connections between startups, established companies, and investors
- Organizing events and initiatives to foster innovation and collaboration in the robotics industry
Women in Robotics As the founder of Women in Robotics, Keay has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the field. This organization aims to:
- Support and inspire women in robotics careers
- Increase visibility of women in robotics
- Promote networking and mentorship opportunities
Robohub Keay is also a co-founder of Robohub, a non-profit online communication platform for the global robotics community. Through this platform, she has contributed to:
- Disseminating robotics research and news
- Facilitating discussions on ethical and societal implications of robotics
- Bridging the gap between academia, industry, and the public
Academic Background
Keay's educational background reflects her interdisciplinary approach to robotics:
- She holds a BA in Film, Television, and Media Studies from the University of Auckland
- She completed an MA in Human-Robot Culture at the University of Sydney
- Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Human-Robot Interaction at the University of Sydney
This unique combination of media studies and robotics has enabled her to approach the field from a holistic perspective, considering both technical and societal aspects.
Expertise and Contributions
Keay is recognized for her expertise in:
- Robotics and AI ecosystems
- Human-robot interaction
- Ethical implications of robotics and AI
- Startup mentoring and investment in robotics
She has been a frequent speaker at international conferences and events, sharing her insights on the future of robotics and its impact on society.
Board Memberships and Advisory Roles
Keay's influence extends to various organizations:
- Board member of the UC Berkeley Robotics and Intelligent Machines Lab
- Advisor to several robotics startups and accelerators
- Member of the Robotics and Automation Society of the IEEE
Publications and Media Presence
As a thought leader in robotics, Keay has:
- Authored numerous articles and reports on robotics trends and developments
- Been featured in major media outlets discussing the future of robotics and AI
- Contributed to policy discussions on the regulation and ethical use of robotics technologies
Awards and Recognition
Keay's contributions to the field have been widely recognized:
- Named one of the 25 Women in Robotics You Need to Know About by Robohub
- Recipient of the Engelberger Award for Leadership in Robotics
- Recognized as a Top 50 Influencer in Robotics by RBR50
Andra Keay continues to be a driving force in the robotics industry, known for her ability to bridge the gap between technology, business, and society. Her work at Silicon Valley Robotics, combined with her advocacy for diversity and ethical considerations in robotics, positions her as a key figure in shaping the future of the field.
Citations: [1] https://www.linkedin.com/in/andra-keay/