Humotech Advocates for Wearable Robotics Innovation on Capitol Hill

Humotech, the leader in exoskeleton and prosthesis emulator systems, took its message to Washington, DC, as part of the Pittsburgh Technology Council’s Defense Robotics and Innovation Coalition. The team met with several Congress and Senate members, advocating for continued prosthetics and wearable robotics research funding. Their goal is to emphasize the importance of supporting technologies that improve the lives of veterans and individuals with limb loss or limb difference.

Humotech’s Mission on The Hill: On this visit, Humotech joined forces with other innovators in Pittsburgh, representing the vibrant tech community in discussions with key policymakers. Notably, they had the opportunity to meet with Senator Bob Casey and the staff of several other influential figures, such as Senator John Fetterman, Congressman Mike Kelly, Congressman Guy Reschenthaler, and Congressman Chris Deluzio. Humotech was proud to share its vision for the future of wearable robotics and how it can support the health and well-being of countless injured servicemembers, veterans, and their families.

Focus on Funding for Critical Research: Humotech’s delegation centered their discussions around the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), specifically the challenges and opportunities in funding the Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research Program (OPORP) for 2024 and beyond (link: https://cdmrp.health.mil/oporp/default). These programs are crucial in providing funds that allow businesses and researchers to collaborate and drive innovation in prosthetics and wearable technologies. “We emphasized the importance of continuing this funding in 2025 and beyond, as this program has had a profound positive impact on innovation in our industry, supporting the translation of numerous technologies. It directly impacts developing technologies that can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with limb loss and limb difference,” said Candice Caputo, Chief Operating Officer for Humotech.

The Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research Program, OPORP, was established by Congress in fiscal year 2014 to enhance the lives of Service Members, Veterans, and others with limb loss or limb impairment by improving the outcomes of orthotic and prosthetic device implementation. This includes improving the ability to carry out daily activities, enhancing work productivity, and increasing the possibility of returning to duty/work. link

Humotech’s Capitol Hill visit was a step forward in raising awareness about the life-changing potential of exoskeleton and wearable robotics technologies. By engaging directly with US Government policymakers, the company is helping shape a future where innovation thrives, and technologies that improve the quality of life for veterans and others with mobility challenges are prioritized.

“We simply need MORE advocacy,” shares Josh Caputo, President & CEO at Humotech. “We have to keep doing this until policymakers and government officials understand that the time is NOW for this technology. Many still do not know it exists, and it’s incumbent upon us to share what we’re doing with them and keep it in the forefront of their minds rather than in the background. For Humotech, we focus particularly on rehabilitation applications in these conversations because we find that often, that is not given as much attention as prevention or performance-enhancing applications. ALL applications of wearable robotics are important, and there are significant synergies between sectors that should be encouraged.“

The above statement resonates with the mission of the Exoskeleton Report, which believes that this technology field can improve human lives. Additional investments and interest can bring about this improvement faster and to more people. It should come as no surprise to anyone that Humotech has launched a podcast, to further popularize the capabilities of wearable technology, which you can catch on YouTube and audio apps like Spotify, and recently so has the Exoskeleton Report too.

About the Pittsburgh Technology Council’s Defense Robotics and Innovation Coalition:

Humotech is an active Defense Robotics and Innovation Coalition member, which connects Pittsburgh-based companies to U.S. Department of Defense opportunities. Their recent visit to Washington, DC, was part of a coalition-organized event to advocate for advancements in robotics and wearable technologies. As the U.S. seeks to bolster its technological edge, innovations from southwestern Pennsylvania play an increasingly vital role. The coalition’s efforts have included collaborations with Army Futures Command, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Space Force, and other defense agencies. You can find out more about the coalition by visiting their website: (link)

URL to original LinkedIn post by Humotech: link

Featured image (top): Humotech President & CEO Josh Caputo and COO Candice Caputo on Capitol Hill, courtesy of Humotech