Robert Joel Shillman (born April 6, 1946) is an American businessman, electrical engineer, software entrepreneur, political financier, and philanthropist. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University, followed by a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Shillman founded Cognex Corporation in 1981, serving as its CEO and as founder, chairman, and chief culture officer. Cognex is a leading provider of machine vision systems, sensors, and industrial ID readers used in automated manufacturing processes. He led the company's growth into a multinational enterprise until stepping down from the chairmanship in recent years, though he remains influential in the company's culture. His entrepreneurial success in machine vision and software development has positioned him as a key figure in the Boston-area tech ecosystem, with his wealth estimated in the billions from Cognex stock and investments.

He also played a foundational role in the establishment of Check Point Software Technologies, contributing to early cybersecurity innovation. Shillman is a prominent right-wing donor who channels resources through the Shillman Family Foundation. He is known for substantial donations to conservative, pro-Israel, and counter-jihad causes, funding organizations like the David Horowitz Freedom Center (which administers Shillman Fellowships for investigative journalism on radical Islam) and activists such as Laura Loomer and Robert Spencer. His donations have drawn attention for promoting anti-Islam narratives and supporting pro-Israel advocacy, aligning with his strong Zionist stance. He has no known legal troubles beyond political criticisms for funding extremist views.