Putting Robotics to Work at Central Health at Hancock

How piloting Hilti’s Jaibot helped us drill smarter and safer

What We Tried

On the Central Health HQ project in Austin’s Hancock Center, our field team piloted the Hilti Jaibot robotic drilling system to install overhead electrical penetrations. One operator used the Jaibot to lay out and drill 355 out of 378 holes on the lower level in just 12 working hours.

What Worked

Using the Jaibot helped us:

• Get ahead of schedule: Because Jaibot uses robotic layout instead of floor markings, we were able to start drilling before slab-on-grade placement, shaving roughly two weeks off the timeline.
• Work safer: No ladders or lifts needed. The robot handled overhead drilling, reducing fall risk and physical strain for the team.
• Run leaner: A single operator managed the work, meaning fewer people, fewer hours, and less exposure.

What to Watch For

Like any tool, Jaibot performs best under the right conditions.

• Ceiling height matters: The robot maxes out at 16.5 feet, so it’s best for projects within that range.
• Coordination has to move fast: Since Jaibot can move quickly, anchor points need to be locked in earlier than usual. This means trades have to align sooner, which can be a challenge if collaboration is not a priority.

Where It Adds Value

The Central Health HQ pilot showed us that robotic drilling can make a real difference when:

• We’re working with tight schedules
• Safety is a top priority
• Layout can be coordinated early
• Ceiling height is within range

It’s not a silver bullet, but in the right conditions, Jaibot can streamline work, reduce risk, and give teams a head start.

Takeaway

Pilot programs like this help us pinpoint where tools create the most impact. On fast-paced projects with overhead work and tight coordination windows, Jaibot is a force multiplier. We’re excited to keep exploring where it fits next.