JARA Chairman and Yaskawa Vice-Chairman Masahiro Ogawa passed away
Oct 19, 2026 — Mr. Masahiro Ogawa, Chairman of the Japan Robot Association (JARA) and Vice Chairman and Executive Officer of Yaskawa Electric Corporation passed away on October 2, 2026, at the age of 62.
Throughout his nearly four decades with Yaskawa, he made significant contributions to the advancement of industrial robotics and automation technologies in Japan and around the world.
Mr. Ogawa joined Yaskawa Electric in 1987 and held a number of leadership positions during his distinguished career. After serving as Regional Manager for the Americas and Chairman of YASKAWA America, he led the company's Robotics Division and played a key role in strengthening Yaskawa's global robotics business. He was appointed Representative Director and President in 2023 and most recently served as Vice Chairman and Executive Officer, overseeing the AI Robotics Business and New Mechatronics Application Business.
In addition to his leadership at Yaskawa, Mr. Ogawa served as Chairman of the Japan Robot Association (JARA), where he worked to promote the growth and development of the robotics industry. Widely respected for his leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to innovation, he helped shape the future of industrial automation and robotics both through his company and across the industry as a whole.
Please join us in offering our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His contributions to robotics, automation, and the broader manufacturing community will be remembered.
