How can you update your robotics skills?

1 Online courses

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to update your robotics skills is to take online courses. There are many platforms that offer high-quality and affordable courses on various aspects of robotics, such as sensors, actuators, control systems, vision, navigation, and artificial intelligence. Some examples are Coursera, edX, Udemy, and Udacity. You can choose courses that suit your level, interest, and schedule, and learn from experts and peers around the world.

2 Projects and competitions

Another way to update your robotics skills is to apply them to real-world problems and challenges. You can work on your own projects or join competitions that test your creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills. For example, you can build a robot from scratch, modify an existing one, or program a simulation. You can also participate in competitions such as RoboCup, FIRST Robotics, and DARPA Robotics Challenge. These activities can help you gain practical experience, feedback, and recognition.

3 Books and journals

If you prefer more in-depth and theoretical learning, you can also update your robotics skills by reading books and journals. There are many books that cover the fundamentals and advanced topics of robotics, such as Robotics: Modelling, Planning and Control by Bruno Siciliano, Lorenzo Sciavicco, Luigi Villani, and Giuseppe Oriolo, or Introduction to Robotics: Mechanics and Control by John J. Craig. You can also follow the latest research and trends in robotics by reading journals such as IEEE Transactions on Robotics, International Journal of Robotics Research, and Robotics and Autonomous Systems.

4 Podcasts and blogs

If you want to update your robotics skills in a more casual and fun way, you can also listen to podcasts and read blogs. There are many podcasts and blogs that feature interviews, stories, news, and insights from robotics experts, enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs. Some examples are The Robot Podcast, Robohub Podcast, and IEEE Spectrum Automaton. You can also find blogs that showcase projects, tutorials, and tips on robotics, such as RobotShop Blog, Hackaday, and Makezine.

5 Communities and networks

Finally, you can update your robotics skills by joining communities and networks that share your passion and curiosity for robotics. You can connect with other electrical engineers, robotics professionals, hobbyists, and learners through online forums, social media groups, newsletters, and events. You can also find local robotics clubs, makerspaces, and workshops that offer opportunities to learn, collaborate, and have fun with robotics. Some examples are Robot Operating System (ROS) Discourse, Reddit Robotics, and IEEE Robotics and Automation Society.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?