GLOBAL Automation Technologies
An Auburn Hills-based industrial automation company grows into a national and international player with support from the MEDC’s International Trade services
GLOBAL Automation Technologies, an industrial automation company dedicated to finding automation and productivity solutions, was founded in Michigan by Shawn Rimmell with a vision to become a leader in robotic automation for the manufacturing sector. The company began in 2009 as a small engineering firm and quickly expanded its capabilities by leveraging Michigan’s strong industrial base to develop expertise in robotic integration.
Over the years, GLOBAL Automation Technologies has grown into a national and international player, with operations spanning the United States, South Africa and the UAE. The company specializes in industrial automation system integration, with a core focus on robotics in the automotive manufacturing sector, while also providing technical services and support, customized training programs and lifecycle support for robotic systems.
To support the company’s growth, Rimmell began utilizing the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) International Trade services in 2017.
“Our first engagement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation came during a critical growth phase when we sought support for workforce expansion and international business development,” said Rimmell. “We leveraged the MEDC for the second international office in Singapore and MEDC provided valuable assistance in navigating funding opportunities, networking with global partners and accessing resources to scale our operations.”
Over the years, GLOBAL Automation Technologies has utilized Michigan’s State Trade Expansion Program, which enables access to global markets through financial assistance from the MEDC’s International Trade team. The company also collaborated with the MEDC’s foreign offices and participated with the MEDC in a trade mission to South Africa.
In 2022, the company took a significant step into the Middle East, establishing its first office in the UAE. With the support of MEDC and the U.S. Commercial Service, GLOBAL Automation Technologies conducted extensive due diligence across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain before selecting the UAE as its regional base. Since then, GLOBAL Automation Technologies has successfully executed projects across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE, as well as in Jeddah and Dammam in Saudi Arabia.
The U.S. Commercial Service was instrumental to Rimmell’s success in the UAE and KSA through various means of support, from ExporTech training and coaching to face-to-face meetings with Deputy Senior Commercial Officer Gary Rand in Saudi Arabia and Ryan Flory of the U.S. State Department in Bahrain.
“This experience provided us with critical strategic insights, prompting us to re-evaluate our first international office in South Africa,” said Rimmell. “Leveraging the lessons learned from our Singapore and UAE expansions, we refined our operations in South Africa, ensuring a resilient and adaptive foundation for continued global growth—always guided by our unwavering commitment to customer trust and excellence.”
Another key factor in the company’s growth has been its partnership with FANUC America; GLOBAL Automation Technologies specializes in integrating their robotics technology into complex manufacturing environments. Its engineers are highly experienced with FANUC’s automation solutions, allowing the company to provide seamless deployment, programming and optimization of FANUC’s robotic systems.
“This relationship has positioned us as a trusted integrator for manufacturers looking to enhance their production efficiency with FANUC robots,” said Rimmell.
In 2025, GLOBAL Automation Technologies closed a multi-million-dollar sale with a major automotive manufacturer in Saudi Arabia, where the company will install and service automation robots.
“Our latest project in Saudi Arabia is a major milestone, as it represents our continued expansion into the Middle East,” said Rimmell. “This deal involves the deployment of advanced robotic automation solutions for a key automotive facility, supporting the region’s push for industrial modernization and smart manufacturing. The project highlights our ability to deliver high-tech automation globally while maintaining strong roots in Michigan. This is a multi-year project and will result in opening our new office in Jeddah this year.”
Beyond this latest venture, GLOBAL Automation Technologies plans to continue expanding its expertise in manufacturing with a strong focus on developing talent in Michigan and globally. From strengthening its partnership with FANUC America to leveraging the latest in emerging technologies and advanced automation tools, the company is excited to help its customers gain a competitive edge in their industries.
Rimmell says the company’s growth and success couldn’t have happened without the MEDC.
“The MEDC's support has been instrumental in our transformation from a Michigan-based startup to a global automation leader,” said Rimmell. “Their assistance in workforce expansion, international business development and strategic connections has directly contributed to our ability to secure major projects, including our latest venture in Saudi Arabia. We’re proud to call Michigan our home as we continue to innovate and expand worldwide.”