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 transform how small and mid-size manufacturers approach automation. His company, General Robotics, is developing innovative software that simplifies the integration of robots into assembly lines.
Simplifying Automation
The software allows engineers to:
- Upload a 3D model of their assembly line.
- Add a robot to the model.
- Program the robot to perform specific tasks.
The goal is to make automation accessible to companies without dedicated robotics teams, streamlining the process and reducing complexity.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Fogarty’s entrepreneurial spirit was ignited during his time at the University of Iowa, where he connected with the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (Iowa JPEC). Through programs like the Startup Incubator, IdeaStorm, and Innovation Challenge, he honed his business skills and refined his pitch. He even secured $10,000 at the spring undergraduate Innovation Challenge, fueling his entrepreneurial journey.
Early Beginnings
Before General Robotics, Fogarty founded Solace Biotech in high school, showcasing his early entrepreneurial drive. His internship at LCN, a small manufacturer in his hometown, gave him firsthand insight into the challenges of automation. This experience inspired him to create a solution that bridges the gap for companies without specialized teams.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
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.
Future Goals
As General Robotics gains traction, Fogarty is focused on:
- Building a strong team.
- Refining the product.
- Generating revenue before graduation.
He acknowledges the need for help on the business side, including finances, strategy, and engineering expertise in programming and AI. His ultimate goal is to create a product that engineers want to use and managers want to buy, revolutionizing the manufacturing industry.
Inspiring the Next Generation
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.
