JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced the acquisition of the core technology developed by Canvas, a San Francisco-based construction robotics technology company known for pioneering robotic solutions for interior construction applications. The acquisition will advance JLG’s strategy to support customer needs beyond enabling jobs to actively execute them with autonomous, connected equipment. 

The relationship between the companies began six years ago when Canvas selected a JLG® platform to develop its robot. Since then, technology has advanced to automate repetitive tasks and enable consistent, high-quality results helping shape safe, efficient and productive job sites. 

“By integrating robotic technology that delivers moments of autonomy, we’re helping crews get more work done in today’s challenging labor environment,” said Mahesh Narang, executive vice president, Oshkosh Corporation, and president of the Access segment. “This investment expands what customers will be able to accomplish with JLG equipment.”

“Robotics and automation will play an increasingly important role in the future of construction, especially as the industry looks for practical ways to deliver greater efficiencies, improve productivity and enhance consistency on job sites,” said Shashank Bhatia, Access Chief Technology Officer. “This acquisition strengthens our technology roadmap and accelerates our ability to deliver solutions that create real, measurable value for customers in the field.”

Canvas is best known for developing the world’s first drywall finishing robot, which combines robotic precision with the skills and expertise of trained tradespeople. The system streamlines interior finishing workflows by automating fit-and-finish tasks, reducing rework and delivering consistent quality while minimizing physical demands on workers.

Through the acquisition, Canvas technology will advance robotic end-effector capabilities and autonomy, enabling pairing with JLG access equipment to support a range of interior construction applications. These solutions are designed to assist skilled workers by handling repetitive, physically demanding tasks and allowing crews to focus on higher-value work.

“We welcome the Canvas team members to the company,” Bhatia said.. “They bring a strong combination of technical depth, creativity and a clear understanding of job site challenges. We see tremendous opportunity to apply their expertise to the next generation of purpose-built solutions.”

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