Thinking Machines Ahead
Event

Thinking Machines Ahead

How Autonomous Systems will Transform the Way we Work.
Where: ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT
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Smart tractor in a field with digital data overlays representing precision farming technology.

This conference will highlight possible future developments of automated and autonomous work environments, such as university laboratories, agriculture, and healthcare. While automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, often following predefined rules and processes, autonomous systems are capable of making decisions independently, adapting to new situations without human input.

We will discuss emerging trends and how these technologies may evolve over the next decade. What changes can we expect in the collaboration between humans and machines? Will humans continue to play a central role, or could work environments be fully autonomously managed by machines?

In expert talks and a podium discussion, we will explore the future of autonomous systems, which promise to revolutionize industries by offering greater flexibility and decision-making capabilities. These systems have the potential to transform our daily lives and society at large, far beyond what traditional automation can achieve. Join us for this engaging discussion about the future of work and the transformative power of both automation and autonomous systems.

Agenda

The conference will take place on 19th November, with a day of informative sessions, engaging discussions and valuable networking opportunities. After the conference we will be hosting a series of workshops centered around the ZEISS Catalyst Program. Invitations to these workshops will be sent separately.

Please note that this agenda might be subject to change. 

ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT, Partner Summit

November 19th 2025 | Preliminary Agenda

12:00 - 13:00

Registration & welcome lunch

13:00 - 13:10

Welcome & introduction to the conference

13:10 - 13:20

Viewing back on 5 Years of the Innovation Hub
Max Riedel | Head of ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT

13:20 - 14:00

Keynote - the Future of Computing
Prof. Wolfram Pernice / University of Heidelberg

14:00 - 14:30

The Future of Robotics in AgTech
Ing. EJ Erik Pekkeriet / Wageningen University & Research

14:30 - 15:00

Coffee break

15.00 - 15:30

The Future of Medical Robotics
TBD

15:30 - 16:00

The Future of Life Science Automation
Prof. Ute Schepers / Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

16.00 - 16:30

How will Automation transform the Way we work
Dr. Matthias Peissner / Fraunhofer IAO

16:30 - 17:15

Panel Discussion: Automation - Curse or Blessing?

17:30 - 18:30

Tour through the ZEISS Innovation Hub

17:30 - 20:00

Dinner & Networking

Location & Direction

How to get to ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT

ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 6 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen Germany

Register now

Please note that there are limited seats available, therefore your registration is binding.

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FAQs

  • The conference will start at 1pm on 19th of November, including keynote speakers and reception, followed by informative sessions, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. On November 20, we will be hosting a series of workshops centered around the ZEISS Catalyst Program. Invitations to these workshops will be sent separately.

     

  • You are warmly invited to join us for our conference at the ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT on November 19th. We are looking forward to getting to know you!

  • The conference will be held in English.

  • No, the event is free of charge. However, please note that participation requires prior registration.

  • Depending on how close to the event location you would like to stay, we can recommend the following hotels:

  • In case you are staying in Karlsruhe city, we recommend taking public transport which includes tram and bus to the stop "KIT-Campus Nord Südtor". Alternative options are the KIT shuttle or a taxi.

Impressions

Partner Summit 2022 and 2023
  • One of 2022s highlights was the collaboration with Emmanuel Witzthum, a composer and artistic director of creative digital experiences.
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    Partner Summit & Conference 2023

  • Surgery meets Automation
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  • Partner Summit 2022

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