Wilkes University Secures $1.2M NSF Grants for Technology Education

Wilkes University has secured over $1.2 million in grant funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The funding aims to foster innovation and workforce development in the region. According to President Greg Cant, this achievement reflects a significant milestone for both the university’s faculty and the broader community.

The awarded grants support two key initiatives: “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).” Both projects are designed to tackle critical technological needs by enhancing access to technology education and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.

Addressing Educational Gaps in Technology

Abas Sabouni, a professor of mechanical engineering and chair of the mechanical and electrical engineering department, is the principal investigator for both projects. He described the proposal process as intensive yet rewarding, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in crafting comprehensive initiatives aimed at creating lasting partnerships and impactful programs.

“The long-term impact will be a sustainable model for connecting education, innovation and industry in the northeastern Pennsylvania region and beyond,” said Sabouni.

EXPLOR-NEPA, a three-year initiative funded through the NSF’s Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) program, was developed by Sabouni alongside fellow professors Edward Bednarz III, Asif Khan, and Yong Zhu. The faculty’s collaboration with local school districts and industry partners has revealed a pressing need for greater access to hands-on technology experiences.

“We identified an urgent need to introduce artificial intelligence and robotics concepts earlier in the educational pipeline and to expand access for students from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds,” Sabouni noted.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

The BRIDGE-TECH initiative will provide high school students in the area with early exposure to AI-driven robotics and automation. This program, led by Wilkes in partnership with Production Systems Automation and local high schools, will include structured hands-on learning, mentorship, and dual enrollment opportunities that allow students to earn college credit.

“We hope to expand the program to additional school districts, integrate new technologies such as autonomous drones and smart manufacturing systems, and continue refining our experiential learning framework to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world,” Sabouni added.

The funding from the NSF not only emphasizes the significance of technology education but also highlights the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and addressing workforce needs in the region. With these initiatives, Wilkes University aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology education and workforce development in northeastern Pennsylvania.