Wilkes University has been awarded more than $1.2 million in grant funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF). This funding aims to enhance innovation and workforce development in the region. According to Wilkes University President Greg Cant, this achievement marks a significant milestone for both the university’s faculty and the broader community.
The funding supports two key projects: “Experiential Learning for Artificial Intelligence-Driven Robotics in Northeast Pennsylvania (EXPLOR-NEPA)” and “Building Relationships in Innovation and Development for Growth in Emerging Technologies (BRIDGE-TECH).” These initiatives are designed to address pressing technological needs while promoting technology education and fostering collaborations between academia and industry.
Project Details and Community Impact
Professor Abas Sabouni, who chairs the mechanical and electrical engineering department, serves as the principal investigator for both projects. He described the proposal process as “intensive but rewarding,” highlighting the collaborative effort required to create comprehensive proposals that pave the way for future partnerships and innovative programs.
“Together, we aim to establish a sustainable model for connecting education, innovation, and industry in northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond,” stated Sabouni. The EXPLOR-NEPA initiative, funded by the NSF’s Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) program, spans three years. It was developed by Sabouni along with colleagues Edward Bednarz III, Asif Khan, and Yong Zhu.
In collaboration with local school districts and industry partners, faculty members identified a crucial need for increased access to hands-on technology experiences. “We recognized the urgent necessity to introduce concepts of artificial intelligence and robotics earlier in the educational pipeline,” Sabouni noted, emphasizing the importance of expanding access for students from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds.
Expanding Opportunities for Students
The BRIDGE-TECH project, led by Wilkes in partnership with Production Systems Automation and local high schools, aims to provide high school students with early exposure to AI-driven robotics and automation. This will be achieved through structured hands-on learning, mentorship opportunities, and dual enrollment options for earning college credit.
“Our vision is to broaden the program to additional school districts, incorporate new technologies such as autonomous drones and smart manufacturing systems, and continuously refine our experiential learning framework,” Sabouni added. This proactive approach is designed to adapt to the rapidly evolving demands of the technology landscape.
The NSF grants represent a significant investment in the future of education and innovation in northeastern Pennsylvania. By focusing on experiential learning and collaboration, Wilkes University is positioning itself as a leader in preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow’s workforce.
