High School

Take a college preparatory curriculum in high school that includes coursework in business, mathematics (algebra, trigonometry, geometry, calculus), computer science (including computer-aided design and programming), and shop classes. Take English, speech, writing, and foreign language classes because chief robotics officers—in addition to having business and technical know-how—must be skilled communicators who can craft concise memos and reports, give effective presentations, and explain complicated robotics systems to those who do not have a technical background.

Postsecondary Education

Chief robotics officers typically have bachelor’s degrees in robotics, robotics engineering or other engineering fields (e.g., mechanical, mechatronics, electrical, electronics, industrial), computer science, or other IT–related fields. Many have master’s degrees in business management or information technology project management.

Certification

The most-successful CROs are lifelong learners. Many augment their training by earning certificates in robotics, Agile project management, artificial intelligence, machine learning, business management, and/or logistics. Colleges and universities, professional associations, and online learning platforms (OLPs) offer certificate programs.

Other Education or Training

Professional associations, postsecondary institutions, and OLPs (Udemy, Coursera, etc.) offer webinars and in-person classes. For example, the Association for Advancing Automation offers webinars such as Collaboration and Robotics: The Latest Solutions; Smart Automation: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) is Changing Industry Today; and The Integration of AI & Vision Technologies.

Certification or Licensing

Chief robotics officers do not have to be certified but they will have most likely earned at least one certification credential when they worked in lower-level robotics positions. The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) is a major provider of certification credentials for robotics professionals. Its credentials include certified robot integrator, certified motion control professional, certified vision professional, and certified vision system integrator. Visit https://www.automate.org/a3-content/standards-and-certifications for more information.

To become qualified for this high-level position, aspiring CROs must have at least several years of experience in lower-level robotics positions or as a chief technology officer or chief intelligence officer.

Chief robotics officers should have a comprehensive understanding of how robots work; knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and other types of systems; familiarity with the principles and practices of business process management and transformation; and expertise in human capital management.

Key soft skills for CROs include leadership ability; conflict resolution, negotiation, and problem-solving skills; flexibility; the ability to work as a member of a team and independently, when necessary; a strong work ethic; curiosity; and a creative mindset.