Luca Marchionni, CTO and Head of the legged business unit at PAL Robotics, has played a critical role in steering the company’s advancements in legged and humanoid robotics. Over the years, Luca’s strategic oversight has been instrumental in defining business unit direction, setting technical roadmaps, and driving the development of key prototypes. His background in software engineering and robotics has provided the foundation for significant breakthroughs, including the creation of iconic robots like TALOS.
In this interview, Luca discusses his transition from software engineer to an influential leader in robotics, reflects on the company’s early development, and outlines his vision for the future.
What initially attracted you to the field of robotics, and what made you decide to join PAL Robotics?
I’ve always been fascinated by technology and computers, even as a child. During my university years, I participated in several robotics competitions and fell in love with programming. After completing my M.Sc., I started working in the industry but quickly realized I missed working with robots and coding. I subscribed to several robotics mailing lists, and that’s when I discovered PAL Robotics had several open positions. I applied to all of them—I couldn’t believe a company like that existed in Europe.
What were your initial roles and responsibilities?
I was hired as a software engineer and worked initially on the autonomous navigation system of the robots: mapping, localization and path planning. Afterwards, I worked on the walking and balancing algorithms used by biped robots, discovering the beauty of mechatronics and real-time control because I started digging into mechanical and electrical design for understanding how to better control the robots.
What was your first impression of PAL Robotics?
It felt like a dream come true to have a job where I could work with robots every single day. The company was still small, with only 20 people, which made it clear that every single contribution mattered. I felt that my work could really make a difference and help shape the company’s future. I also wanted to become a better robotics engineer, and I was fortunate to have great mentors who guided me on that path, sharing their expertise and inspiring me to grow.
Tell us what it is like to have played such an important role in the creation of the famous PAL Robotics’ legged robots, such as TALOS and Kangaroo?
I feel incredibly lucky to have been part of these ambitious projects. Developing humanoid robots like TALOS and Kangaroo is no small feat, especially when working with limited resources and tight deadlines. What made the experience so rewarding was collaborating with an incredibly talented team of engineers. I learned so much from their skills, creativity, and perseverance during the process.
Creating these robots required overcoming numerous technical challenges, but those challenges were also opportunities to innovate and push the boundaries of what robotics can achieve. It was a privilege to contribute to such groundbreaking work and to see the impact our robots have had in advancing the field.
Where do you envision PAL Robotics in the next 20 years?
I see us continuing to fulfill our mission of creating products and services that genuinely improve people’s quality of life. PAL Robotics has always been committed to using robotics and AI for good, and I believe that will remain our guiding principle. I hope to see us among the leading companies that not only drive innovation but also ensure that technology is used responsibly and ethically. As robotics becomes an integral part of society, I envision PAL Robotics playing a key role in shaping a future where these technologies are accessible, helpful, and transformative for all.
Luca Marchionni’s journey at PAL Robotics is one of passion and hands-on problem-solving. From helping shape the technology behind some of our most iconic robots to mentoring others, he’s shown what it takes to turn ambitious ideas into reality. His reflections capture the excitement and challenges of working in robotics and remind us of the people behind the machines who make it all possible.
- Humanoid
