College Unveils Ashley Industrial Automation Lab

October 10, 2017  by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Industry   

The lab features six Yakasawa robots along with three simulator units that will be used to train students in Western’s Electromechanical Technology program, as well as incumbent workers.

“We have a wonderful, state-of-the-art facility at the Integrated Technology Center,” said Western Technical College President Roger Stanford. “Partnerships like the one with Ashley Furniture help keep our students working with cutting-edge technology, and learn the skills necessary in today’s age.”

In addition to the donation of the robots, the Ron and Joyce Wanek Foundation has made a donation to Western’s Foundation that has allowed Western faculty to become certified on the equipment. Western is the only technical college in this region with both the automation lab and the instructor certification required to fully train all levels of robotic technicians.

“We are thrilled with the outcome of the Ashley Furniture Industrial Automation Lab at Western Technical College,” said Ron Wanek, founder and chairman of Ashley. “This new space allows students and the local workforce a hands-on training opportunity to increase their skill set and robotics education. Automation skills are an essential piece as we continue to compete in the global economy.”

In total, Ashley Furniture’s contributions exceeds $470,000 in form of equipment donations and paid instructor training certifications.