Wilkes University received two grants, totaling more than $1.2 million, from the National Science Foundation to support innovation and workforce development within the region.
“This is a tremendous achievement for our faculty as well as the greater community,” President Greg Cant said.
The two projects, titled “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)” are designed to address critical technology needs. Both include initiatives focused on delivering technology education, facilitating academic and industry partnerships, connecting subject matter experts and encouraging innovation across the region.
Abas Sabouni, professor of mechanical engineering and chair of the mechanical and electrical engineering department, served as a principal investigator on both projects. Sabouni noted the proposal process was an “intensive but rewarding experience” as collaborators partnered to deliver not only comprehensive proposals but programs that open doors for future shared involvement, teamwork and lasting impact.
“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 is a three-year experiential learning initiative funded by the NSF’s Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) program. The initiative was developed by Sabouni alongside Edward Bednarz III, professor of mechanical engineering, Asif Khan, assistant professor of electrical engineering, and Yong Zhu, associate professor of mechanical engineering.
Ongoing collaboration with local school districts and industry partners revealed to faculty members a growing need for greater access to hands-on technology experience.
“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,” said Sabouni.
Led by Wilkes in partnership with Production Systems Automation and local high schools, BRIDGE-TEACH will provide area high school students early exposure to AI-driven robotics and automation through structured hands-on learning, mentorship and dual enrollment opportunities 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,” said Sabouni.