Western New England University (WNE) College of Engineering is poised to benefit from an $850,000 earmark secured by Congressman Richard E. Neal to establish the Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems (CAMS). The funding positions WNE as a leader in industry-university collaboration by creating a regional, state-of-the-art hub for advanced manufacturing training and innovation.
"We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Neal for his steadfast support and leadership in securing this $850,000 earmark for Western New England University to establish the Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems within our College of Engineering,” said President Johnson in a statement. “With updated facilities and tools, we will enhance our educational experience for students, ensuring that future graduates are equipped to meet the immediate needs of our industry partners. Western New England University remains committed to preparing our students for the future of work and this funding will allow us to stay at the forefront of innovation."
The earmark will allow WNE’s College of Engineering to enhance its educational offerings and provide students with the latest skills in advanced manufacturing preparing students for immediate job placement upon graduation by offering hands-on training with advanced equipment.
CAMS will be the third innovation hub within the College of Engineering in addition to Photonics and Quantum Technologies.
The center will also foster partnerships with local manufacturing companies like Advance Welding, Nitor Corporation, American Steel and Aluminum Corporation, and Mestek, Inc., offering internships, research opportunities, and workforce development programs. This collaboration will ensure that WNE graduates are well-equipped to meet the needs of the evolving manufacturing industry.
WNE Dean of the College of Engineering, Dr. S. Hossein Cheraghi, highlighted the importance of this investment, emphasizing that the new center will provide students with critical skills and certifications that meet the demands of today’s technology-driven workforce. The College of Engineering will be able to offer additional programs, including workshops and experiential opportunities for students and professionals alike, to enhance advanced manufacturing techniques. The initiative also includes outreach to K-12 students, sparking early interest in STEM careers.
The establishment of CAMS further cements WNE's reputation as one of the top engineering schools in the nation. With the programs and partnerships with local manufacturers, WNE continues to lead in producing highly skilled graduates who can drive technological innovation and economic growth. The earmark ensures that WNE remains at the forefront of workforce development in advanced manufacturing, contributing to the revitalization of the region’s manufacturing sector.
This allocation was made possible through Congressionally Direct Spending (CDS) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Congressman Neal included funding for this project in the Fiscal Year 2024 spending bill that was signed into law by President Biden on March 9, 2024.
