Americans are both hopeful and uneasy about the rise of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), according to new research from the Pittsburgh Robotics Network.
The organization’s 2025 AI & Robotics Sentiment Survey paints a picture of a nation that sees potential economic and societal benefits from automation but remains uncertain about its personal impact.
While concerns over job displacement continue to dominate public debate, only 12% of respondents believe their own jobs are at risk from AI. That disconnect, said Pittsburgh Robotics Network executive director Jennifer Apicella, underscores a key challenge in how Americans perceive technology.
“Americans see the benefits of robotics but don’t always connect them to their own careers,” Apicella said. “That’s a tremendous opportunity. If industry and training partners work together, we can close this perception gap with clear upskilling pathways and a confident workforce that embraces the technology.”
How Americans view AI, robotics
The national survey, conducted in March, included more than 1,300 adults and found the country evenly divided on whether robotics and AI will have a net positive or negative impact overall. Optimism is strongest in areas where robotics are seen as improving safety or quality of life — such as disaster response, hazardous environments and space exploration. Respondents expressed far less enthusiasm for robotics used in military or law enforcement settings.
The study also found that Americans’ economic expectations vary widely by income and education level. A slim majority — 53% — believe robotics could put downward pressure on household income, but those with college degrees or higher incomes are more likely to anticipate long-term benefits.
Despite the mixed outlook, confidence in U.S. innovation remains high. Half of respondents (44%) expect robotics to bring more manufacturing back to American soil, and 62% say they prefer to use robots developed in the United States.
Lauren Connelly, director of Allegheny County Economic Development, said those attitudes support the region’s focus on advanced manufacturing and workforce readiness.
“Pittsburgh and Allegheny County are building a model for inclusive growth in robotics,” she said. “By expanding apprenticeships, short-cycle training, and career navigation, we’re ensuring residents are prepared for the quality jobs this sector is creating.”
The AI & Robotics Sentiment Survey suggests the country’s ambivalence may be less about fear and more about unfamiliarity. As robotics become increasingly visible in logistics, health care, and manufacturing, the findings point to a pivotal moment: whether Americans will see automation as a threat to livelihoods or a tool for national renewal.
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