NCNGM Attends Aligning Industry 4.0 and Academia at CCSU

Aligning Industry 4.0 and Academia Fall 2024 Convening was a significant gathering hosted by Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) in collaboration with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. This event was attended by educators and industry leaders aiming to explore how academic institutions can effectively adapt their curricula and training programs to meet the rapidly evolving demands of Industry 4.0. Two esteemed figures delivered the opening remarks that set the tone for the discussions: CCSU President Dr. Zulma R. Toro, who holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Systems Engineering, and Paul S. Lavoie, the State of Connecticut's Chief Manufacturing Officer.

 Dr. Toro articulated a vision for a robust educational framework that prepares students for immediate employment and equips them with the skills necessary for lifelong learning. She highlighted the critical need for institutions like CCSU to create and maintain communication networks among various educational entities and industry players. These networks would facilitate the exchange of ideas, resources, and best practices, ensuring that students receive a relevant and comprehensive education that aligns with industry needs. Dr. Toro also spoke of the importance of public programs at CCSU that allow current workers to upskill and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

In his remarks, Lavoie stressed the urgency of addressing the workforce challenges that lie ahead, not just in Connecticut but also on a national and global scale. He pointed out that the manufacturing sector is transforming, and educational institutions must proactively prepare a workforce capable of navigating these changes. Lavoie called for collaborative efforts between academia and industry to develop training programs that are both innovative and practical, ensuring that graduates possess the competencies that employers require.

Dr. Steven Minkler, who serves as the Dean of the School of Engineering, Science & Technology at Central Connecticut State University, took the stage to introduce a series of presentations designed to provide the audience with valuable and practical insights into the intersection of education and industry. He reiterated the need to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce.

First among the speakers was Tim Tassler, the National Sales Manager of Education at APT Manufacturing Solutions. In his talk, he provided the audience with a comprehensive and detailed overview of their innovative high school training center, which serves as a vital resource for students aspiring to enter the fields of engineering and technology. Tim showcased a video on the cutting-edge technology taught within the high school training center, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience. He highlighted the strategic industry partnerships that APT Manufacturing Solutions has cultivated, specifically mentioning collaborations with companies such as FANUC and Rockwell Automation. These partnerships enhance the curriculum and provide students with invaluable networking opportunities and insights into the latest industry practices.

Tim Tassler, who represents APT Manufacturing, presented this video.

The second presenter was Mehrdäd Fäézi, a highly respected professor of manufacturing at the Connecticut State Community College (CT State) Manchester campus. In his presentation, he provided the audience with detailed information regarding several significant educational initiatives, including the CT State's Connecticut College of Technology, the CICSTART high school program, and the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing. His thorough exploration of these topics offered attendees a comprehensive understanding of how these programs aim to enhance manufacturing education and workforce development within the state.

As the Principal Investigator of the CICSTART high school program, funded by the National Science Foundation, Mehrdäd is deeply involved in initiatives that seek to inspire and prepare high school students for careers in manufacturing and technology. His passion for teaching is evident in the courses he delivers, designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape. He discussed the specific goals of the CICSTART program, which aims to provide high school students with hands-on experience and exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies, thereby fostering a new generation of skilled workers. Lastly, he elaborated on the Connecticut College of Technology initiatives, which seek to create pathways for students to pursue higher education and career opportunities in technical fields.

Dr. Steven Minkler and Professor Mehrdäd Fäézi. Wendy Robicheau, the Assistant Director of the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, funded by the National Science Foundation, delivered a comprehensive overview of the Center's mission and initiatives. Wendy highlighted the Center's commitment to enhancing workforce development and facilitating collaboration between academia, industry, and government entities. She also discussed the Center's role in providing resources, such as access to research, training programs, and funding opportunities. Through these efforts, the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing aims to improve manufacturing efficiency and productivity and address the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

NCNGM Assistant Director Wendy Robicheau and Professor Mehrdäd Fäézi.

Raymond Sheen is a highly regarded figure in manufacturing and process improvement, serving as the president and founder of Product & Process Innovation, Inc., a company dedicated to enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in production systems. He also holds the position of adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University, where he imparts his expertise to students through courses focused on Six Sigma methodologies, specifically the Green Belt and Black Belt certifications, and the emerging concepts associated with Industry 4.0. His teaching covers theoretical frameworks and emphasizes the practical application of these methodologies in real-world scenarios. During his presentation, Raymond Sheen shares valuable insights critical for organizations aiming to upskill their workforce in Industry 4.0. Sheen's insights are particularly relevant as businesses navigate the complexities of integrating new technologies into their existing frameworks while ensuring their personnel can handle these transitions effectively.

The discussions that followed the presentations delved deeper into specific strategies for achieving Industry 4.0 and academic goals, including developing partnerships between universities and local businesses, integrating hands-on learning experiences into educational programs, and promoting the value of apprenticeships, externships, and internships. Participants engaged in lively discussions about the future of work, the skills gap, and the role of technology in shaping educational practices. The event concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to work together to create a skilled, adaptable, and ready workforce to meet future industry challenges.