Benjamin Thompson
Manhattan,IL
Summary
Dynamic leader in robotics and automation with over a decade of comprehensive experience in engineering, product development, and operations. Expertise in integrating mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines to transition innovative technologies from concept to nationwide implementation. Proven ability to lead teams effectively, optimize deployment strategies, and create data-driven monitoring systems that enhance uptime, safety, and throughput. Marine-honed discipline combined with startup adaptability and technical rigor fosters a culture of innovation and reliability within the industrial automation sector.
Overview
2020
2020
years of professional experience
Work History
Multiple Roles
Formic Technologies
2020 - 2025
- Served as a founding technical leader guiding Formic’s evolution from early deployments to scaled, standardized operations.
- Directed setup and build-out of integration facility—safe, repeatable configuration, testing, and shipment of robotic systems.
- Implemented standardized procedures and documentation meeting ANSI/RIA and ISO requirements.
- Developed fleet-monitoring architecture, enabling real-time uptime analytics for billing and after-sales support.
- Cut deployment and stabilization times ~70% through process optimization and standardization.
- Managed vendor coordination and supply-chain readiness for 100 + system deployments.
- Partnered with Product, Software, and Deployment teams to improve reliability and customer experience.
- Reported to COO and supported executive decisions on production throughput and resource planning.
- Led cross-functional teams averaging ~10 contributors per project.
Robotics Application Engineer
HCM Systems
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Authored integration and marketing materials to launch new robotics business unit.
- Designed and programmed collaborative-robot applications.
- Delivered on-site programming and system commissioning for multiple trade conventions.
COO
EarthSense (UIUC DAS Lab Spin-out)
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Converted DARPA/NSF research into commercial prototypes.
- Directed manufacturing and beta testing for 25 + agricultural robots.
- Managed demonstrations, logistics, and technology transfer to production partners.
- Illinois Innovation Prize Finalist for entrepreneurial execution.
Sergeant
United States Marine Corps
01.2008 - 01.2012
- Led 14 Marines in logistics and risk-management operations.
- Maintained asset accountability and training readiness for deployed units.
- Purple Heart recipient; multiple commendations for leadership and service.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Technical Systems Management
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, ILSkills
- Robotics Systems Integration
- Fleet Monitoring (AWS/IoT)
- Softtware Development
- Deployment Optimization
- Safety and Compliance
- Process Standardization
- Vendor & Supply Chain Management
- Cross-Functional Leadership
Timeline
Robotics Application Engineer
HCM Systems
01.2018 - 01.2020
COO
EarthSense (UIUC DAS Lab Spin-out)
01.2016 - 01.2018
Sergeant
United States Marine Corps
01.2008 - 01.2012
Multiple Roles
Formic Technologies
2020 - 2025
Bachelor of Science - Technical Systems Management
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign