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MoveIt Studio is designed to accelerate the development of robotic manipulation applications. Source: PickNik Robotics
As robotics startups begin to grow, they need to maintain technical inspiration while adding business acumen. PickNik Inc., which provides software and services for automating complex tasks, did just that today. The company said founder Dave Coleman will move into the role of chief product officer as Dave Grant is promoted from chief revenue officer to CEO.
“This change in strategic leadership represents a significant growth milestone in PickNik Robotics’ journey as a leading innovator in robotic arm applications,” said the Boulder, Colo.-based company.
PickNik Robotics’ flagship product, MoveIt Pro, is an artificial intelligence and runtime platform for the rapid development of commercial-grade unstructured robotics applications deployed in complex, variable environments.
PickNik’s new CEO Dave Grant (left) with founder and CPO Dave Coleman (right). Source: PickNik Robotics
The grant is already helping PickNik commercialize MoveIt
“This leadership transition is a very positive and exciting development for our customers, our talented team and the future of PickNik Robotics,” said Grant. “I am honored to take on the role of CEO and look forward to working closely with Dave Coleman and the entire PickNik team to continue our mission to deliver superior robotics solutions.”
In the fall of 2023, he joined PickNik Robotics as Chief Revenue Officer, bringing experience in Software as a Service (SaaS). Grant previously worked at Uplight, which achieved unicorn status, and Smartabase, which was acquired for nearly five times its Series A valuation.
At PickNik, Grant shaped the go-to-market strategy for MoveIt Pro. He will lead its transition to a commercial software-focused business, the company said.
“He already knows our team and has really helped us in profitability and revenue so far, as well as sales and marketing,” explained PickNik. “This transition really supports both of their strengths as Dave Grant works with SaaS companies and expands and transitions to a more product-oriented company.”
“He is currently focused on customer success,” she added. “We make sure that the air and ground applications give us valid feedback and that our customers are successful.”
“Dave Coleman can pass the business hat and lean more on the technical side and talk and work with the team more,” the analyst said. “It’s really nice that no one is being pushed out.”
Coleman to continue developing robotics
Coleman has served as CEO of PickNik Robotics for nine years, delivering innovations in robotic handling to more than 100 ground and aerospace customers, including NASA, the US Space Force and Motiv Space Systems.
He previously worked at Google Robotics, Open Robotics and Willow Garage. Coleman is an expert in autonomous motion control, as well as an advocate for robot interoperability and the open-source Robot Operating System (ROS) community.
“I am excited to step into the role of Chief Product Officer and focus on what I love most – solving robotics challenges and advancing our product development,” he said. “I have every confidence in Dave Grant’s ability to expand PickNik Robotics into the next chapter of growth and success.”
Coleman will share his experience consulting with more than 100 robotics companies and discuss the reasons why robotics companies fail at RoboBusiness 2024. PickNik Robotics will also be exhibiting at booth 622 at the event, which will be held on October 16 and 17 in Santa Clara, California
Register now and save.