Vecna Robotics Powers Scalable Warehouse Automation Through Human-in-the-Loop Support

Warehouse automation is no longer a fringe concept—it’s accelerating fast. According to McKinsey, robot shipments are expected to grow by as much as 50% annually through 2030, and warehouse automation spending is rising by over 10% each year. As companies race to modernize operations, it’s becoming clear that real performance doesn’t come from hardware alone——it’s the human-in-the-loop support systems that make the difference.. Whether it’s navigating supply chain disruptions or handling seasonal spikes, human-led oversight is what turns automation into a reliable, scalable advantage.

So, how do leading organizations ensure robots perform at their best, even when humans aren’t on the floor?

In the sixth episode of Robot vs. Wild, Vecna Robotics’ Chief Marketing Officer Josh Kivenko sits down with Nikki Slaughter, Director of Post-Deployment Operations, to explore the critical human support infrastructure behind autonomous systems. Together, they unpack how Vecna’s always-on remote team—its “pit crew”—continuously optimizes robot performance through human-in-the-loop decision-making, ensuring safety and adapting operations in real time to customer needs.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why Vecna’s 24/7 Pivotal Command Center is essential for scaling automation, providing rapid remote assistance that outperforms traditional on-site support.

  • How real-time robot monitoring leads to personalized, data-driven adjustments that improve flow, throughput, and reliability.

  • The role of human-in-the-loop support in enabling safe experimentation—from lights-out automation to adaptive charge cycle management.

Nikki Slaughter is the Director of Post-Deployment Operations at Vecna Robotics, where she leads remote support and technical documentation teams to ensure scalable, high-performing automation solutions across industries such as automotive, food and beverage, and medical supply logistics. She brings over a decade of experience in robotics, AGV systems, field service, and R&D leadership, having previously managed implementation and validation teams in both warehousing and renewable energy sectors. Passionate about operational excellence and cross-functional collaboration, she also advocates for diversity in STEM through ongoing mentorship and outreach.

Recent Episodes

On this episode of Inside Restoration & Recovery, host Martha Lewis sits down with Shadira Jones, General Manager of BMS CAT’s Tampa office, to talk about resilience, leadership, and preparation during back-to-back hurricanes that hit the Florida coast. With less than two years at BMS CAT under her belt, Shadira was thrust into emergency…

Many homeowners don’t realize that standard homeowner’s insurance excludes flood protection. That’s a risk worth correcting fast. Lori Callahan, Assistant VP and Account Executive for Personal Lines at B.F. Saul Insurance, stresses the importance of proactive flood coverage. “About 40% of flood insurance claims come from outside high-risk zones,” she explains. Because of that, her…

When it comes to flood insurance, preparation is key. Tyler Ardron, Executive Vice President at Floodproofing.com, often advises homeowners and businesses to take proactive steps before a storm hits. “We deal with this all the time with our clients,” Ardron explains. “Have a list of your belongings, include estimated values, and schedule everything out ahead…