The Power To Change With Innovation and Inclusion: Transforming Robotics and Leadership

Marianela Nanninga is the founder and CEO of ToDo Robotics. .

By Marianela Nanninga

I’m the Founder and CEO of ToDo Robotics, where we’re not just building robots—we’re reimagining industries and redefining leadership. From revolutionizing hospitality and food service to blazing a new trail for automation, my journey has been fueled by a passion for innovation, a commitment to inclusion, and a relentless drive to make technology a force for good.

One of my proudest moments came during the labor shortages of recent years. While businesses struggled to stay afloat, frontline workers—often women and people of color—bore the brunt of the pressure. That’s when I knew our robotic solutions could do more than streamline operations; they could ease the load for these workers, allowing them to focus on tasks that bring value and fulfillment. For me, it’s not just about solving business challenges; it’s about improving lives.

As a Latina leader in a field dominated by men, my path has been as much about personal growth as professional innovation. I’ve learned to let go of the perfectionism that often comes with breaking barriers, embracing collaboration and authenticity instead. And I’ve found my voice—not just for myself, but for the countless others I hope to inspire.

Looking ahead, my vision is to bridge the gap between advanced technology and the communities that feel left behind by it. Young Latinos, in particular, deserve to see themselves as part of the future of robotics. My goal is to show them that this field isn’t just for someone else—it’s for them, too.

Leadership isn’t just about being at the helm; it’s about creating opportunities for others to rise. It’s about imagining a world where technology doesn’t replace people but empowers them. At ToDo Robotics, we’re building that world—one innovation at a time.

Marianela Nanninga is the founder and CEO of ToDo Robotics. https://linktr.ee/todorobotics .