Oakland University’s School of Engineering and Computer Science has received $50,000 gift from ABB Robotics, a leading supplier of industrial robots headquartered in Auburn Hills.
The gift was made to Dr. Betty J. Youngblood, interim president, Dr. James P. Lentini, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, and Dr. Louay M. Chamra, dean of the School of Engineering and Computer Science by Michael Mahfet, vice president and general manager of ABB Robotics, North America and an OU alumnus (MA ’97, SECS ’95).
The gift will support of the development of a four-year industrial robotics and automation program and be applied to curriculum development and related student programs. In addition, ABB will provide internship opportunities for several Oakland University students each year in programs designed to produce valuable, work-ready graduates.
“There have been strong advances in manufacturing, both in southeast Michigan and across the United States, and industrial robotics has been at the heart of much of that development,” said Dean Chamra. “By focusing on applied research and cooperating with those in the industry, OU’s goal is to become the premier research center in this area. We want to put quality engineers in jobs and help industry solve their problems and challenges.”
Currently, three members of ABB Robotics’ executive team in Auburn Hills are OU alumni, ABB’s Michael Mahfet added. “We might be a little biased, but we know OU is a highly regarded school in the engineering community. We’re pleased to be able to play a part in advising the SECS on their new robotics curriculum. Ultimately, it’s good for OU and it’s good for companies like ours. The automation industry is changing so fast that it’s important to have your finger on the pulse of what customers want.”
Source: Automation Alley
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