FTCC/NCMBC Welcomes Rob Robinson as Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Strategic Industry Professional

The North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Rob Robinson of Fayetteville as Strategic Industry Professional for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Automation. Serving businesses statewide from Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC), Rob will focus his efforts on research, outreach and cataloging North Carolina entities that have specific capabilities in areas including, but not limited to: autonomy; artificial intelligence; machine learning; robotics; small unmanned aerial systems; virtual and augmented reality; and wearable technology. Additionally, Rob will coordinate with the Department of Defense, other federal agencies and military commands with interests, requirements and/or needs for technologies in the above sectors, in coordination with both the NCMBC and the North Carolina Defense Technology Transition Office (DEFTECH). 

“Artificial intelligence, machine learning and a broad array of automation systems are the future of the force,” said Scott Dorney, Executive Director of the NCMBC. “Rob’s personal expertise and contemporary familiarity with military requirements and applications of these technologies will make him a critical asset to the NCMBC, defense contractors and the innovation ecosystem statewide. Part of the DEFTECH team lead by Colonel (Ret.) Denny Lewis, Rob will work from FTCC in direct support of industry and military partners to grow these technology sectors in North Carolina and to meet the future needs of our warfighters.”

Prior to joining the NCMBC, Rob served 23 years on active duty as a commissioned officer in the United States Army. A graduate of the United States Military Academy (West Point), Rob was commissioned in the Infantry. Rob’s distinguished military career includes the command of Blackhawk Company 1-23 IN (03-04) during the First Stryker Brigade’s operational deployment to Iraq. Additionally, Rob deployed to Afghanistan as a Military Transition Team Chief (07-08), Iraqi Security Forces Advisor (09-10) and a Battalion Executive Officer for TF Black Lion in East Paktika, Afghanistan (12-13). After serving at 6th Ranger Training Battalion as the Battalion Executive officer (13-15), Rob deployed in support of CJTF-OIR in Kuwait and Iraq (16-17). Upon return from his last deployment Rob transitioned into Electronic Warfare. Rob retired from service as a Lieutenant Colonel out of the 82nd Airborne Division in February of 2020. Rob’s military service awards include: Combat infantryman’s Badge; Ranger Tab; Legion of Merit; Bronze Star Medal (1xOLC); Purple Heart; ARCOM with Valor Device.

For more information on the NC Military Business Center, visit: www.ncmbc.us. Rob Robinson can be contacted at robinsonr@ncmbc.us.