BRTC representatives meet with DRA and EAPDD representatives (L to R): BRTC Business/Robotics Instructor Susan Shanlever, BRTC Executive Director of Workforce Development Priscilla Stillwell, Economic, EAPDD Community Development Manager Sara Stocker and DRA Monitoring and Compliance Coordinator Christine Williams
Black River Technical College (BRTC) was recently visited by representatives from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) and the East Arkansas Planning and Development District (EAPDD) to evaluate BRTC’s newest automation and robotics lab.
The visit was part of an evaluation of the lab constructed with funds from a DRA States’ Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP) grant for $169,842 that was awarded to BRTC last year.
BRTC is using the lab to teach a new workforce and upskill the current workforce as manufacturers move into automation. Automation is being used in many areas such as, manufacturing, transport, utilities, defense, facilities, operations, and lately, information technology.
“Automation is prevalent in manufacturing, utilities, transportation, and security. For example, most manufacturing plants make use of automated processes in the form of robotic assembly lines,” said Executive Director of Workforce Development Priscilla Stillwell. “Automation professionals involved in the creation, application, and monitoring of such technologies are in high demand.”
Courses in industrial automation and industrial maintenance are currently available on all BRTC campuses: Pocahontas, Paragould, and Piggott.
“Black River Technical College is a prime example of supporting workforce employment and training needs in the region,” said DRA Monitoring and Compliance Coordinator Christine Williams. “By helping to create pathways to high-quality careers in automation and robotics, they allow residents to thrive and remain in their communities.”
“The industrial training program offered by the Black River Technical College is an invaluable asset for Northeast Arkansas,” said Sara Stocker EAPDD Economic and Community Development Manager. “As the East Arkansas Planning and Development District, we take pride in sharing its remarkable potential and success with our federal partners and local workforce.”
For more information about industrial automation or industrial maintenance visit blackrivertech.edu or contact Dean of Business and Technical Education Phillip Dickson at (870) 248-4125 or Phillip.Dickson@blackrivertech.edu.