NCNGM Overview of COT Meeting at University of Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The Connecticut College of Technology convenes regularly throughout the academic year, providing a vital platform for disseminating and updating educational resources, engaging with various aspects of curriculum development, and maintaining a robust statewide network that connects academic institutions. These meetings are essential for fostering collaboration and ensuring all partner schools are aligned with technology education's latest advancements and requirements. The culmination of these efforts was highlighted in the end-of-the-year meeting, which took place at the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut.

During the gathering, Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch, the Executive Director of the Connecticut College of Technology (COT) and the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), took center stage to address the audience. As the principal investigator of the NCNGM, Dr. Wosczyna-Birch provided a comprehensive overview of the meeting's agenda, outlining the key topics that would be discussed and the goals the group aimed to achieve. Her leadership and vision are instrumental in driving the initiatives supporting technological education and workforce development in Connecticut. Following her introduction, she welcomed the next speaker, Dr. Khaled M. Elleithy, who is not only the Dean of the College of Engineering, Business, and Education but also a distinguished Professor of Computer Science and Engineering and a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences. Dr. Elleithy emphasized the critical importance of the network established by the Connecticut College of Technology, highlighting how it serves as a bridge between students and opportunities in the workforce. He spoke passionately about the student body and their potential as well as how imperative it is to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an evolving technological landscape.

As the meeting progressed, Dr. Wosczyna-Birch introduced an overview of several upcoming initiatives impacting the educational framework and opportunities available to students. Among these initiatives was the Journal of Advanced Technological Education, which aims to publish cutting-edge research and best practices in technology education to help continuous improvement and innovation. Additionally, she highlighted the Connecticut Werth Nanotechnology Industry Academic Fellowship, an exciting program designed to create partnerships between academia and industry, providing students with exposure to real-world applications of their studies.

The attendees engaged in meaningful discussions about the critical need for community college programming, which is essential in facilitating students' transfer to four-year institutions. This dialogue was centered around the idea that faculty members must be equipped to guide students effectively when they embark on their educational pathways. Educators expressed their commitment to ensuring students receive the most current information and resources, preparing them for successful futures in their chosen fields. All educational institutions are responsible for supporting student success and fostering an environment where academic and professional aspirations can be realized.

Toward the end of the gathering, the group was allowed to tour several of the University of Bridgeport's cutting-edge engineering laboratories. This tour allowed faculty members to interact with current students who were actively engaged in their research and projects, fostering an atmosphere of mentorship and collaboration. Additionally, discussions with the University of Bridgeport faculty provided insights into the various programs offered at the university. This hands-on engagement showcased the innovative work being done at the University of Bridgeport. It reinforced the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions and the need for continuous dialogue among educators, students, and industry leaders.