Dr. Astrid Heckl

Dr. Astrid Heckl is Vice President Scouting & Technology at Schaeffler, where she drives innovation in advanced production technologies with a strong focus on AI-driven robotics and next-generation manufacturing systems. She builds and leads global partnerships with startups, research institutions, and industry leaders to translate disruptive technologies into scalable industrial solutions. Her work bridges cutting-edge innovation and real-world production, shaping how AI and robotics transform the factories of the future. She strongly believes that many of today’s most impactful innovations originate from startups and thrive through open collaboration ecosystems.