In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Mark Gray, UK and Ireland Manager for Universal Robots. Mark brings 25 years of automation experience and 9 years with Universal Robots, where he's responsible for day-to-day operations across the UK and Ireland. They discuss:How collaborative robots are revolutionizing manufacturing without replacing human workersThe flexibility of robotics technology and its potential for reshoring UK manufacturingFuture skills requirements and training opportunities in the robotics industryMark shares insights into how Universal Robots' collaborative robots (cobots) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are being deployed across various industries - from small 3-4 person companies to large manufacturing facilities. The conversation explores applications ranging from machine shops and welding to food packaging, medical device assembly, and even laboratory automation that can run overnight processing blood samples.A key theme throughout the discussion is how robotics technology can address the UK's skills gap and aging workforce while making manufacturing jobs more attractive to younger generations. Mark explains how robots provide the flexibility that modern manufacturing demands - able to be reprogrammed and redeployed for different tasks as business needs change, unlike traditional hard automation.The episode also delves into the intersection of AI and robotics, with Mark describing robots as "the physical embodiment of AI." He discusses how AI-assisted programming and vision systems are making robots more autonomous and easier to deploy, while emphasizing the continued need for human skills in both practical installation and advanced software development.For those interested in entering the robotics field, Mark highlights training opportunities available through Universal Robots' Sheffield facility, including free courses for technical apprentices. The company also provides educational support to colleges and universities across the UK, with plans to expand their presence in UTC colleges.Connect with Mark Gray on LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eDRDYUafConnect with Tim Burnett on LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/ewkjcPvUIf you would like to join Tim on a future episode or sponsor the Test Community Network then get in touch with Tim to schedule a call: https://lnkd.in/e5krHwzAEvents: https://lnkd.in/gngYJ_vZPodcasts: https://lnkd.in/gqbFy4HmMarketplace: https://lnkd.in/eryjSzutSubscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://lnkd.in/eEfqjykN🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://lnkd.in/eWCFYRVX