Odense Welcomed Global Robot Talents to Robot Elite Summer School 2025
This summer, Odense and Denmark once again became the center of global robotics innovation as the Robot Elite Summer School returned for the fifth consecutive year.
The summer school was hosted by SDU Robotics in close collaboration with other Danish universities, Odense Robotics, and leading local companies. It brought together the best engineering and robotics students from around the world to learn, network, and innovate within Denmark’s world-leading robotics cluster.
During the two-week program, students gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, participated in expert-led workshops, and received exclusive access to some of the region’s most advanced robotics companies. They were also joined by professors from universities in India, Germany, the USA, and Korea.
“Robot Elite Summer School is a central part of our commitment to delivering the highest-quality robotics education. It is a privilege to work with industry partners to provide students with a truly immersive experience that bridges academic research and practical application. We are proud to host this program in Odense, where innovation and collaboration go hand in hand.”
The event offered students a unique opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders and explore how companies in Odense are advancing the manufacturing sector through collaborative automation.
Universal Robots and MiR welcomed students to their headquarters on August 15 for company tours, networking, and dinner.
“We are proud to support the summer school and welcome the next generation of global robotics talent to Odense. It is inspiring to meet students from around the world and show how our companies help shape the future of robotics, manufacturing, and logistics.”
Odense’s reputation as a global robotics hub continues to attract elite talent, as participants came from across Europe, Asia, and North America.
“The Elite Summer School is a great example of the strength of our robotics ecosystem. By connecting students with leading companies and researchers, we not only nurture future talent – we also strengthen Denmark’s position as a global leader in robotics innovation. Collaboration between academia and industry elevates the Danish robotics environment to world-class levels.”
Practical Experience and Industrial Insight
Throughout the week, students immersed themselves in advanced robotics challenges, gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, and built relationships with peers, researchers, and industry leaders.
“If I had to use three words, I would say exciting, eventful, and practical. We gained a lot of technical experience, and it was very industry-oriented. So we got a lot of practical hands-on experience.”
Automation is widely seen as a prerequisite for companies’ competitiveness across industries and sizes.
“Robotics is no longer an experimental tool – it is a strategic necessity for future production. By integrating advanced automation, we can create more flexible, efficient, and sustainable production lines that enhance Denmark’s global competitiveness. Initiatives like the Robot Elite Summer School play a central role in ensuring we have the talent pool and global collaboration opportunities between universities and industry needed to drive this ongoing transformation.”
As Odense and Denmark continue to grow as a global hub for robotics, initiatives like this ensure that the region stays at the forefront of innovation – attracting talent, driving growth, and shaping the future.
Further information
Casper Rundager
Investment manager - Robotics & drones
With a deep passion for international trade and commercial growth, I thrive helping foreign companies in the robotics, drone, tech and automation industry establish and grow their business in Odense. My background is within product management and business development in global software and automation companies, and having lived and worked abroad myself, I know the value of networks and collaboration. I look very much forward to helping you take the next step.
+45 4245 8980
cspru@odense.dk
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Thor Ellegaard
Program Manager of Robotics and Automation
I work to secure the knowledge and skillset of our future global workforce. Collaborating with local, national, and global robotics and tech companies to build the absolute best Robotics School K-12 in the world. As a Program Manager in the field of Robotics and Automation for the City of Odense, my main objective is to create mutually beneficial public-private partnerships.
+45 2037 9950
telha@odense.dk
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Sanne Elin Vinderslev
Startup Initiative Manager
Connecting people and interests, while collaborating with a variety of partners and thus creating new possibilities and a stronger business environment in Odense is my drive. I develop new initiatives to grow the ecosystems in Odense both within the robotics and startup scene.