In this episode of TECHNE Connect, Joe Reed sits down with Mel Torrie, CEO and Founder of Autonomous Solutions Inc. (ASI), to discuss his journey through robotics, entrepreneurship and building autonomous systems for real-world industries.
Mel shares how growing up on a farm in Canada inspired his interest in automation, eventually leading him from electrical engineering into robotics and founding ASI over 25 years ago.
The conversation covers:
- The evolution of robotics from early concepts to today’s AI-driven systems
- Building a robotics company through the challenges of hardware, software and adoption
- Why trust, humility and culture are central to building successful teams
- The importance of hands-on engineering experience for the next generation
- How AI and labour shortages are accelerating robotics adoption
- The future of autonomous systems across agriculture, construction, mining and logistics
Mel also shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, including why founders need resilience, how setbacks create stronger companies and why putting people and customers first has been central to ASI’s growth.
A conversation on robotics, leadership and the people building the next generation of autonomous technology.
The Techne Connect Podcast 🎧
Thank you for listening to Techne Connect! This podcast takes you inside the companies and conversations shaping the future of engineering.
From space and defence to robotics, AI, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and next-generation mobility, each episode features the founders, engineers and technology leaders building tomorrow's world.
Through candid discussions on innovation, leadership, product development and career journeys, the podcast uncovers the ideas, challenges and breakthroughs driving the world's fastest-moving industries. Whether you're an engineer, founder, investor or simply fascinated by emerging technology.
Techne Connect offers a front-row seat to the people creating what's next.
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