From Stage Manager to Robotics

This series highlights the unique journeys of our employees, and few paths have been as varied and inspiring as that of Jonathon Streker, a Warehouse Operations Technician who found his calling at Boston Dynamics through a blend of curiosity, non-technical skills, and a lifetime of diverse experiences.

Jonathon, who considers New York his home but has been living in Massachusetts for eight years, has been with Boston Dynamics for over two years. Before joining the world of robotics, his background was entirely non-technical. He spent years in education as a teacher, worked in general construction, and even had a career in educational theater, conducting music, teaching songs, and managing the orchestra pit.

An Unexpected Transition

Despite his non-STEM background, Jonathon always harbored a curiosity for technology, building computers, learning coding, and soldering in his spare time. His fascination with robotics began in the 2000s, watching the legendary leg lab projects from MIT and the first appearances of BigDog. He was so captivated by how the robots could “maintain balance and move so fluidly” that he never imagined the organization would evolve into a full-fledged company with varied needs.

It was a drive past the building that spurred him to action. His partner encouraged him to apply, leading Jonathon to realize that the organizational and project management skills he honed in theater and teaching were direct assets to the Operations team.

A Day in the Life: Supporting Stretch

Jonathon started and remains in the role of a Warehouse Operations Technician, where he plays a crucial part in the success of the Stretch® robot. His day-to-day work is focused on robot testing, test support, and robot logistics, including managing test cells and supporting deployments to early adopter sites or offsite testing.

He is particularly excited about the current development testing to enhance Stretch’s advanced autonomy. The team has been successfully reducing the robot’s footprint and simplifying changeovers, aiming to reduce the burden on operators.

“Collaborating with people I know and trust and being able to ask them for help has been a major factor in my ability to push through challenges and do my best work”

Jonathon Streker

Defining Moments and Community

For Jonathon, the work at BD goes beyond technical tasks. His favorite project has been his involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Driven by a strong personal connection—his cousin was a Make-A-Wish kid—he immediately volunteered for a last-minute demo with Stretch. He credits his teaching background with helping him connect with the children, calling the experience a “full circle moment”.

He also gives a shout-out to the BD Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG), where helping stand up the group has provided him with a real sense of community support. He recalls the experience of holding and presenting an interview with the Stonewall Veterans “a defining experience for my life”.

On the technical side, he recalls being initially intimidated when he worked with the electrical engineering team for offsite testing of Stretch. However, the engineers were welcoming and eager to teach, which helped him learn about electromagnetic engineering and reaffirmed that the people at Boston Dynamics were willing to answer his curiosity.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Despite his successes, Jonathon admits that transitioning from public education to the tech world came with its challenges, including adapting to the specialized jargon and rapid pivots. He also shared the biggest lesson he’s learned: overcoming imposter syndrome.

“I initially felt like I was way behind the curve compared to some of my more experienced or traditionally STEM trained colleagues,” he says. “The most important lesson I’ve learned is that regardless of that feeling, I have valuable skills that I can contribute to the team in ways no one else can… I’ve learned to recognize when I’m scared of something and push through it… I belong here!”.

When asked about his favorite thing at the company, his answer is quick: the Atlas® project. He is “incredibly thankful” to have witnessed the performances of hydraulic Atlas and seeing the first backflip performed by the electric model in person—an experience he says makes him “feel like a kid again”.

Beyond the Lab

Outside of work, Jonathon is a lifelong musician who enjoys composing, performing, and collaborating with artists. He also loves strategy games and helped start the Boston Dynamics chess club.

His advice for succeeding at Boston Dynamics? “Stay curious and observant before jumping in,” and focus on making meaningful connections. “Collaborating with people I know and trust and being able to ask them for help has been a major factor in my ability to push through challenges and do my best work”.