2010-06-03 - ABB Robotics is the first member of the Robotic Industries Association (RIA) to take advantage of the new Educator Sponsorship program by sponsoring Vincennes University (VU) and Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) in the USA for membership to the RIA.
The new program allows any RIA member to sponsor a teaching and training institution for an Educator Membership in the RIA. Eligible institutions include vocational and technical institutes and both two- and four-year colleges offering a curriculum and path leading to hi-tech, well paying jobs in robotics or related automation technologies.
In the Fall of 2009 VU set up a complete robotic training center in its new $9 million industrial training facility, the Indiana Center for Applied Technology (ICAT), which features 29 ABB robots and related work cells, and a full array of ABB software and controllers. VU offers a two-year associate degree in Computer Integrated Manufacturing & Robotics, and a series of robotic training courses in its Workforce Development program.
“With our state-of-the-art ABB Lab on campus, we are uniquely positioned to provide robotics education and training,” said David Tucker, VU’s vice president of workforce development and community services. “The RIA membership will allow our training to remain cutting edge through the many connections we will establish with a variety of RIA members.”
Earlier this year FVTC announced the installation of seven ABB robots and related software and controllers into its updated industrial training facility. A Phase II is planned for Fiscal year 2011 that will include the addition of arc welding robots, positioners, welding equipment and related software. FVTC offers a two-year associate degree in Automated Manufacturing & Robotics, and a series of robotic training courses in its Workforce Development program.
“Our affiliation with the RIA will allow our faculty and students to stay abreast of emerging trends in the robotic industry, and allow them to reach out to organizations that may be able to help further their training and career goals,” said Jerry Eyler, executive dean of FVTC.
Institutions will benefit from an RIA membership sponsorship by having the opportunity to post content, recruit students and solicit R&D projects via Robotics On-line, complimentary or discounted RIA conference registration for students and faculty, placement of graduates with RIA members and other members-only offerings.
“The next generation of robot operators is in store for good paying, interesting and fulfilling jobs,” said Brian Huse, RIA director of marketing and public relations. “This new program will help more educators find partners to help train tomorrow’s workforce for exciting careers in robotics.”
The robotic training facilities at both VU and FVTC have also become authorized ABB training centers allowing robotic technicians to have easier access to comprehensive training and certification. “Both VU and FVTC are true partners,” noted Joe Campbell, ABB Robotics vice president of sales and marketing and RIA membership committee member. “ABB is very pleased to be able to provide the benefits of RIA membership to two of the most committed and innovative robotic training curriculums in the United States.”