Kristina I. Schunk, CEO of SCHUNK, was honored by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) as one of eleven ”Women in Robotics 2026“ worldwide. With this initiative, the IFR has recognized individuals each year since 2024 who play a key role in advancing robotics and contribute to building future-ready industries. The award also highlights the strategic role of SCHUNK in a globally growing robotic market. Worldwide, the demand for flexible, AI-powered automation solutions continues to rise. In this context, robotics is evolving from isolated systems into connected, adaptive platforms that open up new areas of automation.
”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.
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.
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.