How to Grow Your Career in Automation

Clarissa Schwendeman, Director of Marketing, A3

Clarissa Schwendeman is Director of Marketing at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), where she leads strategic marketing efforts that drive visibility, engagement, and growth across the organization’s various initiatives, including education, market intelligence, membership and events. She is responsible for shaping integrated marketing strategy across key business priorities, with a focus on strengthening A3’s market presence, expanding audience reach, and ensuring the organization’s programs resonate with both current and future industry stakeholders.

A significant part of Clarissa’s leadership has centered on advancing workforce and community-focused initiatives that support the future of automation. She has helped drive the growth and positioning of A3 NextGen, including mentorship programming, career development resources, and community platforms designed to better connect students, emerging professionals, and industry leaders. Her work reflects a broader commitment to building stronger talent pipelines and creating more intentional pathways for engagement, leadership development, and long-term industry participation.

Prior to her current role, Clarissa served in multiple marketing positions within A3, where she developed deep expertise in content strategy, campaign leadership, webinar programming, audience development, and performance-driven communications. She began her career in media planning and analysis, supporting major brand campaigns through insight-led strategy and cross-functional collaboration. Across her career, she has built a reputation for combining strategic vision with executional discipline to deliver measurable impact and elevate organizational influence.

Christelle Keefer, Director of Training and Certification, A3

Christelle is passionate about advancing automation and creating opportunities that strengthen and prepare the workforce. She currently leads the strategy, development, and execution of training and certification programs at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), supporting professionals across robotics, automation, machine vision, motion control, and AI. Her work focuses on building industry-relevant learning pathways, certifications, and curriculum that help individuals and organizations develop the skills needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving automation landscape.

Named one of the 10 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics by the International Federation of Robotics, and recognized with the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce Tomorrow’s 20 Award and Oakland County’s 40 Under 40, Christelle is committed to driving progress across the industry. She is also a strong advocate for women, underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities, and diverse communities to explore and thrive in automation.

Through advisory committees, industry collaboration, and mentorship initiatives, she works to connect industry, education, and community. Having partnered with professionals, educators, and students across more than 40 countries, Christelle continues to help shape the future of automation by expanding access to knowledge, opportunity, and innovation.