First mobile robots roll off the production line at Rockwell’s US HQ
31 October 2025 
Rockwell Automation has started to produce autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) at its global headquarters in Milwaukee. It says that the development makes it the largest industrial automation company to be building AMRs in the US.
Rockwell acquired the AMR technology when it bought the Canadian manufacturer Clearpath Robotics in 2023. It is now assembling the company’s Otto 600 and 1200 AMRs in a 25,000ft2 (2,322m2) area at its Milwaukee campus. Each AMR is driven for more than 15 miles (24km) before being shipped to customers.
The robots are designed to move heavy materials safely and efficiently across busy factory floors and in tight spaces. By reducing reliance on manual forklifts, AMRs can help manufacturers improve safety, cut transition times, reduce damage to goods, and create more resilient and sustainable operations.
“The expansion strengthens our portfolio of advanced material-handling solutions and underscores Rockwell’s leadership as the largest industrial automation company building AMRs in the US,” says Rockwell’s chief supply chain officer and senior vice-president, Robert Buttermore. “It’s also a showcase for our customers, demonstrating how seamlessly and safely these technologies can transform their operations.”
Laser scanners on board the AMRs scan their surroundings more than 30 times per second, building a virtual map in their memory. Through shared communications, each robot is aware of other robots in the area, and their locations, even around corners.
Expanding production of the Otto AMRs to Milwaukee is part of Rockwell’s broader strategy to enhance its manufacturing resiliency. Clearpath and Otto will continue to produce AMRs at their Canadian facilities in Ontario, with the Milwaukee operation adding capacity and proximity to US customers. Starting in early 2026, customers will be able to tour the Otto production facility in Milwaukee.
Rockwell recently announced that it is investing $2bn in plants, digital infrastructure and talent, to increase its market share, build resilience and expand margins.
