Steve Nation

Numina Group - United States

Steve Nation has been named as the senior solutions sales engineer with Illinois-headquartered warehouse automation specialists Numina Group.

An experienced sales consulting leader in the supply chain technology and logistics industry, Nation brings deep expertise in warehouse systems integration, automation design, and enterprise software to Numina's growth engine, the business states. 

In his new role, Nation will work directly with clients to assess operational requirements, evaluate warehouse process improvements, and identify the right blend of automation software and technologies for the application. 

“His addition significantly strengthens Numina's capacity to pursue and deliver warehouse automation projects for customers with an omni-channel, B2B, and B2C order fulfilment mix,” the company states.

Jane Heffner

International Federation of Robotics - Germany

Jane Heffner has been elected as the new president of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). She is taking over the rotating presidency from Takayuki Ito of Fanuc Corporation. 

Heffner is the global vice president of channel communication at Boston-based Teradyne Robotics, a role she will continue while IFR president.

She brings more than two decades of leadership experience, including in automation, robotics, automotive, and aerospace. 

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Takayuki Ito for his outstanding leadership and dedication since taking office in 2024,” Heffner said in a statement following her election. 

“The global robotics industry is at an important inflection point, driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and automation. We will continue to build on the excellent work that Takayuki has done as ambassador of the global robotics industry.”

Paul Patalas

Alta Material Handling - United States

Paul Patalas, VP of corporate remarketing with Alta Material Handling, has announced his retirement on LinkedIn.

Patalas has worked with Michigan-headquartered Alta for more than 30 years.

“After an amazing journey of 45 years in the material handing industry I am officially retiring,” Patalas writes. 

“I have worked with many great people along the way and value our friendships.

“It’s time to relax a bit and spend more time with my family and friends.”