Kodama Systems Shows Off “Roboskidder”
Remote-controlled skidding services previewed at second industry Demo Day
August 28, 2025
by Kodama Systems
Guests listen to CEO Merritt Jenkins talk about Kodama Autopilot while the machine is off dragging wood.
Walker, LA – Kodama Systems (Kodama) hosted its second Demo Day this past weekend to showcase the capabilities of its remote-control technology product, Kodama Autopilot. With Autopilot, Kodama offers skidding service contracts for loggers and landowners who want to utilize this the new, game-changing system for forestry equipment. The event brought together logging contractors and stakeholders from the Southeastern U.S. timber industry to see the company’s remotely-operated skidder working at full capacity in a commercial logging environment.
The event took place just outside Hammond, LA on a final harvest site. Attendees were welcomed with a safety briefing before watching a S340 Weiler wheeled skidder (with no operator in the cab) be remotely operated from hundreds of miles away. During the demo, Merritt Jenkins, Kodama CEO and Co-founder, provided an overview of the technology and Kodama’s skidding service offerings. He highlighted that Kodama’s skidding service allow workers to control heavy equipment from safe, remote locations, while maintaining the same productivity as a manual operator. Kodama’s "roboskidder” has proven it can move 300+ tons, or, 15 truck loads, of wood per day.
Following the demonstration, attendees inspected the Kodama Autopilot hardware and asked Kodama’s remote operator questions about his experience. Attendees were also able to watch a live stream of the remote control operator, seeing the 360-degree video streams and audio in real-time from the operator’s point of view.
A Turning Point in Logging Technology
Kodama Autopilot is the first retrofit system designed specifically for logging equipment. It’s built to handle high volumes of wood and tough terrain, meeting the production demands of commercial logging. The hardware package includes 6 cameras, 1 GPS device, 1 lidar unit and an on-board computer. The hardware is secured by bolts and designed to integrate seamlessly onto machines. The system uses satellite and radio communication networks to enable full machine control.
Kodama Autopilot has gained traction with customers across the U.S., from California to Mississippi. The system has proven impressive production numbers on these diverse sites. Remote skidding services have moved 30+ tons of wood an hour, a metric considered consistent with manual operators. Loggers can now utilize Kodama’s services as a staffing solution to keep machines running when they need them most: no commuting time and no days off.
Offering Skidding-as-a-Service
Kodama offers fully managed skidding services at a competitive day rate, with the flexibility to use either a customer-provided skidder or a Kodama-provided machine. Set-up includes minimal hardware installation, which can be completed in a single weekend. Kodama also offers on-demand customer support to ensure reliable field performance. Kodama staffs qualified remote operators who are available when needed, helping customers maintain consistent production without the burden of today’s staffing challenges.
Looking Ahead
Kodama is focused on deploying its system across the Southeastern U.S. Contact the Kodama Sales Team (sales@kodama.ai) if you want to discuss how Kodama’s services will work for your crew!