Cengiz Özemli
Academic
- Thread Author
- #1
Kettering University has developed a program that prepares its students for meaningful and high-impact careers through education and industry collaboration.
In today's rapidly changing manufacturing and engineering environment, there is an increasing need for graduates who not only possess technological knowledge but can also apply it. Kettering University, a STEM-focused private educational institution in Flint, Michigan, uses an experiential learning model to provide its students with the opportunity to experience modern automation systems in real-time.
### Why Hands-On Learning?
Industrial companies are increasingly using sophisticated automation technologies, and employers expect students to have practical experience in areas such as ladder logic programming, robotics, system integration, and debugging. Kettering University recognized this need early on and structured its educational program to allow students to continuously progress between coursework and industry experience.
Kettering lecturer Andy Watchhorn emphasizes the importance of hands-on training in combining theory with real problem-solving, stating, "Our goal is to make our students job-ready and provide them with access to the latest technology equipment."
### Real-World Automation Cell in the Classroom
In collaboration with Patti Engineering and technology partners, the university designed a two-station robotic cell that reflects the complexity of modern manufacturing environments. This cell:
- Resembles equipment used in industry with its modular and upgradeable structure.
- Offers an interactive, experimental environment where students can modify code and correct errors.
- Integrates different disciplines such as robotics, PLCs, HMIs, vision systems, and conveyor mechanics into a single process.
In the robotic cell, industrial and collaborative robots perform material handling and automated inspection tasks. Students can gain direct practical experience in areas such as vision systems, motion control, programming logic, and system integration.
### The Robotic Cell as a Learning Tool
The most important feature of this cell is that it allows students to modify programs, resolve errors in real-time, and experience the cause-and-effect relationship between code and machine behavior. Terrance Brinkley, Director of Michigan Operations at Patti Engineering, states that the cell was designed as a laboratory where students can experiment.
This freedom fosters critical thinking, resilience, and self-confidence—skills that are difficult to teach through lectures alone.
### Essential Experience for a Career
For students, such experiences become important turning points. Electrical Engineering student Scotty Grunwald describes the robotic cell experience as a full-scale automation system problem and states that the challenges made the project valuable. Hands-on learning provides significant advantages in internships and job applications, in addition to technical preparation. Employers prefer candidates who understand automation systems, can solve problems independently, and can confidently discuss technical decisions.
### Recommendations for Starting Hands-On Automation Training
- Start with scalable small steps, for example, with simple automation kits or entry-level PLC training sets.
- Collaborate with local industry; companies are often willing to provide training and equipment support.
- Offer open-ended laboratory tasks to encourage students to try different solutions.
- Connect alumni or professionals with students to strengthen professional networks.
- Increase capacity as the program grows, preferring modular systems.
Kettering University's automation education model demonstrates the importance of education and industry working together to equip students with real-world skills. Advanced engineering knowledge requires curiosity, adaptability, and practical experience. Whether you are an educator or a student, hands-on learning offers a deeper understanding and career preparation.
