Robots are already taking over more and more tasks, from inspections to maintenance. But the real challenge lies in integration: into processes, regulation, and collaboration. That was the central theme of the very first MeetUp Critical Infrastructure and Robotics, co-organized by Avular and Haskoning.

On September 23rd, Avular and Haskoning brought together more than a hundred professionals from the worlds of infrastructure, technology, and innovation gathered at the Avular office in Eindhoven. It was an afternoon full of knowledge sharing, inspiration, and new connections, all driven by one shared mission: exploring how robotics can make our critical infrastructure smarter, safer, and more efficient.

A program full of perspectives

The afternoon kicked off with an opening by Peter Boom (Haskoning), followed by Yuri Steinbuch (Avular) and Frans van den Akker (Haskoning), who bridged the worlds of asset management and real-world robotic applications.

Speakers from ProRail, Rijkswaterstaat, Schiphol, Alliander, and Eindhoven University of Technology shared their insights on both the opportunities and challenges of implementing robotics in infrastructure. From strategies for successful adoption to concrete examples of autonomous systems in action, each presentation highlighted that the future of infrastructure is inseparable from robotics.

A live demo of Avular’s mobile robots brought the theory to life, followed by plenty of room for networking and discussion. The program concluded with an inspiring keynote by Professor René van de Molengraft (Eindhoven University of Technology) and a closing network reception.

Taking the next step together

The turnout and level of discussion clearly showed that the sector is ready to take the next step. As many speakers emphasized: collaboration is key. Only together can we safely and effectively integrate robotics into our critical infrastructure.

We look back on a successful first edition of the MeetUp Critical Infrastructure and Robotics, and we’re already looking forward to what’s next. One thing is clear: robotics is here, and collaboration will accelerate its impact.