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New Chair of Robotic Industries Association Named

April 24, 2012

The Robotic Industries Association, the industry trade group representing more than 265 companies involved in robotics in North America, named Catherine Morris the first woman Chair since its founding in 1974.

Ms. Morris, Senior Account Manager, ATI Industrial Automation, was first elected to the Ria Board in 2003 and most recently served as the Board’s First Vice Chair. She is a Past Chair and current member of the Ria Membership Committee and also chairs the show committee for Automate 2013, Ria’s flagship event. She is the first Chair to represent a robotic end-effector company.

Morris has been an account manager with ATI for 16 years, with a primary focus on key Oems and automotive customers. “I hope to bring a new perspective and energy to the Chair role,” said Morris. “I’m passionate about robotics and know that automation is the key to our country’s future economic success. My primary focus as Chair will be to expand the Automate 2013 trade show and conference in order to spread the message about why and how companies can benefit by automating.”

Morris’ key focus is on the success of Ria’s new Certified Robotic Integrator program that will benefit integrators and end users alike leading to more successful automation systems. She will also focus on strengthening the links between Ria and the educational community. “In order to get students excited about robotics and automation and prepare them for future career opportunities, Ria will work more closely with community colleges and universities that offer automation courses,” said Morris.