International Federation of Robotics has recognised Kristina I. Schunk as one of eleven global honorees in the “Women in Robotics 2026” list. The recognition highlights her contribution to advancing robotics and shaping the future of automation.
Kristina I. Schunk leads SCHUNK, which has been acknowledged for its strategic role in driving innovation in AI-based and adaptive robotics as well as digital automation solutions.
The “Women in Robotics” initiative, launched by the International Federation of Robotics in 2024, annually recognises individuals who play a key role in advancing robotic technologies and supporting the development of future-ready industries.
The recognition also reflects SCHUNK’s position in the rapidly expanding global robotics market, where demand for flexible and AI-powered automation solutions continues to grow. As industries increasingly adopt intelligent automation, robotics is evolving from standalone systems into connected, adaptive platforms capable of enabling new areas of industrial automation.
Robotics as a strategic lever for competitiveness
”Robotics is not an end in itself for me. It is a very tangible lever for making industrial work more productive, safer, and fit for the future,” says Kristina I. Schunk. “It connects mechanics, software, and artificial intelligence – and translates human and digital intelligence into physical value creation.“ With this understanding, SCHUNK consistently drives forward the development of its automation and gripping technology. The goal is to make it easier for companies to get started with automation, reduce complexity, and at the same time ensure maximum process stability.
Pionieering spirit is part of our DNA
Kristina I. Schunk runs the family-owned company in its third generation. For her, innovative strength is closely linked to entrepreneurial responsibility: ”As a third-generation entrepreneur, I see pioneering spirit as part of our DNA. For me, that means consistently breaking new ground and translating technological developments early on into solid industrial solutions.“
Robotics is currently undergoing a profound transformation: Away from rigid, pre-programmed systems and toward adaptive, AI-based solutions that can perceive, learn, and respond flexibly.
SCHUNK is actively shaping this development – for example, by further advancing anthropomorphic gripping hands for industrial humanoid robotics and by developing AI-powered solutions for flexible handling processes. The focus is always on industrial deployment: an innovation must always be cost-effective, and scalable.
At SCHUNK, robotics starts with real-world industrial application. New technologies are developed in close exchange with customers, industry partners, start-ups, and research institutions. At the same time, the company is committed to inspiring young talent for engineering and robotics at an early stage and to supporting the next generation in this future-based field.
Shaping the future of robotics
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) is a global industry association for the robotics industry, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It brings together national robotics associations, research institutions, and manufacturers of industrial and service robots from more than 20 countries. With its market analyses and statistics, it is regarded as one of the most important international reference sources for the development of robotics. An award from the IFR sends a strong international signal of the importance of innovative strength and strategic foresight. For Kristina I. Schunk and the entire company, the recognition is also an incentive to consistently stay the course: With technological excellence, digital connectivity, and a clear focus on industrial applicability, SCHUNK works together with customers and partners to shape the future of robotics.
