Erkan Teskancan
Kurumsal
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## US Higher Education and European Advanced Technology Shape the Future of Industry
Purdue University, Rittal, and Eplan, world leaders in industrial and electrical engineering solutions and automation, have forged a significant strategic partnership. This collaboration opens new doors for smart manufacturing education and preparation for the industrial revolution.
The agreement, a five-year collaboration centered at the Purdue Polytechnic Institute, was formalized at the Rockwell Automation Fair event in Chicago. Purdue will join the Rittal + Eplan Partner Network as a research partner, ensuring students gain practical experience with smart manufacturing technologies.
### Partnership and Educational Opportunities
Two specialized laboratories will be established on the Purdue campus: the Eplan Electrical Engineering Technology Projects Lab and the Rittal Automation Systems Lab. In these labs, students will gain hands-on experience with data-driven processes in plant engineering, cable assembly, and wiring.
The partnership provides students with comprehensive access to Rittal and Eplan's hardware and software solutions, and also includes scholarships, internship programs, and joint research and development projects. With the potential for expansion through the Purdue Polytechnic High School network, this collaboration offers direct exposure to technologies used by leading companies in the industry.
### Views of Daniel Castro, Dean of Purdue Polytechnic
"Purdue Polytechnic has always embraced the mission of preparing the next generation for industries shaped by technological advancements. This partnership is a prime example of that vision," said Castro. "By integrating Rittal and Eplan's world-class solutions into our curriculum, we are equipping our students with not only theoretical but also practical skills."
### Contribution to Industry and Students
The partnership provides qualified workforce to the industry while supporting students in gaining real-world experience using the Eplan platform for electrical engineering design and Rittal's automation systems and system enclosures. As a result, Purdue graduates will enter the industry ready for professional life.
### Rittal and Eplan's Investments
The companies within the Friedhelm Loh Group are creating collaboration opportunities for innovative research with this significant investment in the future of the US workforce. Eplan CEO Sebastian Seitz stated, "Purdue's students will be equipped to make an immediate impact in the industry."
Seitz also emphasized that a deep understanding of data-driven automation is key to growth, especially during a period of skilled labor shortages.
### Opportunities Provided to Students
The partnership also offers tangible advantages to Purdue students. Last fall, a Rittal and Eplan-supported capstone project was presented in the innovation area at the Rockwell Automation Fair. Additionally, over 100 students had the opportunity to network with senior executives in the industry. Rittal and Eplan executives will also join the Purdue Polytechnic Dean's Advisory Council to strengthen the collaboration.
