From Lego to Launch: How a Student is Revolutionizing Manufacturing with Robots

Keegan Fogarty, a senior mechanical engineering student at the University of Iowa, is on a mission to change how small and mid-size manufacturers use automation. His company, General Robotics, is developing software that could make it easier for engineers to integrate robots into their assembly lines. The software allows engineers to upload a 3D model of their assembly line, add a robot, and program it to perform specific tasks. The goal is to simplify the process of automation, making it accessible to companies without dedicated robotics teams. Fogarty's interest in entrepreneurship was sparked during his time at the University of Iowa, where he connected with the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (Iowa JPEC). Through various programs, including the Startup Incubator, IdeaStorm, and Innovation Challenge, Fogarty honed his business skills and refined his pitch. He even won $10, 000 at the spring undergraduate Innovation Challenge, which helped fuel his entrepreneurial journey. Before General Robotics, Fogarty founded Solace Biotech in high school, showcasing his early entrepreneurial spirit. His experience interning at LCN, a small manufacturer in his hometown, gave him firsthand insight into the challenges of automation. He saw how daunting it could be for companies without specialized teams, which inspired him to create a solution that could bridge that gap. Fogarty's journey highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. At the University of Iowa, students from various disciplines are encouraged to explore entrepreneurship through Iowa JPEC's resources and support. This inclusive approach fosters innovation and empowers students to turn their ideas into reality. As General Robotics gains traction, Fogarty is focused on building a team, refining the product, and generating revenue before graduation. He acknowledges the need for help on the business side, including finances and strategy, as well as engineers experienced in programming and AI. His goal is to create a product that engineers want to use and managers want to buy, ultimately revolutionizing the manufacturing industry. Fogarty's story is a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance. From building Lego sets with his dad to bringing robots to Show and Tell in seventh grade, his passion for engineering has been a constant. Now, he hopes to inspire other engineers to explore the possibilities of entrepreneurship through Iowa JPEC.