Abstract: A low profile stepper robot is described and claimed herein. The robot includes a plurality of foot assemblies. Each foot assembly includes a suction cup, a vacuum generator, and a valve, with the vacuum generator being operationally connected to the suction cup. A conduit connects a source of operational fluid flow to the vacuum generators, and the valves allow or prevent fluid flow to the vacuum generators. Actuators are positioned between the foot assemblies and the robot base. The actuators provide for linear and rotational displacement of the foot assemblies, allowing the robot to walk and turn along an inspection surface.