Automation, Innovation + Robotics (AIR) Center

Impact Beyond College | Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Opportunities for learning and advancement are helping to address local workforce shortages and provide enhanced spaces for instruction in software training, programming, product design, manufacturing, and robotics.

Exterior facade of the newly built Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center illuminated at dusk in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

At Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) - Fond du Lac Campus, the newly constructed and renovated Automation, Innovation and Robotics (AIR) Center project offers students access to industry-standard equipment and training, leading to seamless career transitions. High school students can also earn college credits, opening doors to further education.

CNC tools and robotic equipment in the advanced shop space at Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center, built by CD Smith in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Additionally, the upgrades have positioned MPTC at the forefront of manufacturing education, attracting top talent and fostering innovation.

Advanced manufacturing shop space featuring CNC tools and robotics at Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

“The AIR Center project reflects the power of collaborative community efforts. As I met with local businesses, it was clear they needed their workers to be trained in robotics and automation. College leadership came up with a plan and 32 community partners stepped forward to offer $2.7 million to support our efforts. I am humbled and proud to be part of such a generous and supportive community–one that believes in the power of technical education and collaborative workforce solutions. In January 2024, we proudly welcomed the first class of students to the new AIR Center facility–one that we know will create skilled workers for years to come.”

-Bonnie Baerwald, MPA, CPA, President, Moraine Park Technical College

Exterior view of the newly built Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center illuminated at dusk in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

The AIR Center construction, which is phase one of the College’s Advanced Manufacturing and Trades facility in Fond du Lac, was the first visible sign of the College's 2022 referendum project. In total, taxpayers approved a $55 million four-project referendum to enhance Moraine Park facilities district-wide.

Entrance lobby of the newly constructed Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, built by CD Smith.

Phase 1

The new construction of the AIR Center included 18,000 SF of educational spaces, including a variety of high-tech labs that offer students hands-on experience with the latest industry tools and technologies.

Highlights include:

• Robotics Lab: Students program, operate, and build robots, preparing them for the automation sector.

• Mechatronics Lab: This unique space combines mechanics, electronics, and software, equipping students for complex automation systems.

• 3D Printing Lab: Students bring ideas to life with the latest 3D printing technology, fostering innovation and creativity.

• CNC Lab: Students use computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, preparing them for highly skilled careers in manufacturing.

Phase 2

The renovation of the current 30,000 SF B-Wing manufacturing facility included upgrading and re-allocating the Industrial Maintenance Lab, Welding and Metal Fabrication Labs, Transmission Lab, and Electrical/Autos Lab. The space also included remodeled classrooms, breakout study areas, and small focus rooms.

Nighttime view of the newly constructed Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center's exterior facade in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Construction wrapped in 2024, with C.D. Smith Construction serving as the general contractor. For full details on the AIR Center or referendum projects, visit morainepark.edu/future.

Date: Fall 2024 | Author: Molly Haack

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Education Projects | Beneath the Hard Hat^®& in the News

INSIGHTS, UPDATES & News: MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE AIR CENTER CONSTRUCTION

Moraine Park Technical College Automation, Innovation + Robotics (AIR) Center | Project ProfileJune 2024

Moraine Park Technical College AIR Center Construction Project Ribbon-Cutting | Beneath the Hard Hat^®02.19.2024

February 1, 2024 (Fond du Lac, WI) Moraine Park Technical College shared a YouTube video update announcing the construction completion of the Automation, Innovation and Robotics (AIR) Center!

The video announcement gives viewers an inside look at the construction process and a peek at the final results. It also shows students diving into automation, innovation and robotics thanks to this state-of-the-art $12.8 million project.

THE BACKSTORY: Moraine Park recognized the growing demand for skilled workers and set out to become a catalyst for manufacturing excellence. Local businesses need employees who can keep up with the latest technologies, and the college was determined to bridge that gap.

The AIR Center is partially funded by nearly $2.7 million in donor contributions. Thanks to generous community support and a $55 million referendum, it became a reality.

WHAT'S INSIDE? | The AIR Center features a number of new learning spaces, including:

Robotics Lab 🤖: Hands-on learning how to program, operate and build robots.

Mechatronics Lab 🔧: Combined learning of mechanics, electronics and software for complex automation systems.

3D Printing Lab 🖨️: Access to cutting-edge 3D printing technology.

Virtual Reality Lab 🕶️: Engage with immersive virtual reality experiences.

Cyber Security Lab 🔐: Dedicated training on crucial cybersecurity skills.

THE BIG PICTURE: The AIR Center is more than just a building; it's a symbol of Moraine Park's commitment to innovation, collaboration and student success.

🚀 This state-of-the-art facility is preparing students to be the leaders of tomorrow's manufacturing industry.

#Manufacturing #Education #Innovation #EconomicGrowth #Construction #CareerDevelopment #Wisconsin

January 19, 2024 (Fond du Lac, WI) Moraine Park Technical College's highly anticipated Automation, Innovation, Robotics (AIR) Center project is nearing completion, and donor signage will be placed on display soon. The AIR Center is partially funded by donor contributions of nearly $2.7 million. It's because of their generosity that this state-of-the-art learning facility is here today.

Moraine Park's AIR Center is a $12.8 million project that will provide students with the latest in automation, innovation, and robotics training. It will feature a number of new learning spaces, including:

A robotics lab

A mechatronics lab

A 3D printing lab

A virtual reality lab

A cyber security lab

The Center will also house classrooms, offices, and a student lounge; and the first class of students was welcomed into the new space on Monday, January 22nd.

We're excited to see this project come to fruition, providing students with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st-century workforce and bring positive impacts for the Fond du Lac community and beyond.

August 3, 2023 (Fond du Lac, WI) We're thrilled to bring you an update on progress at Moraine Park Technical College's highly anticipated Automation, Innovation, Robotics (AIR) Center project. Project Engineer Intern Sam Schaefer reports on significant milestones achieved in the renovation and expansion of the B Wing as well as the construction of a new entrance.

👷‍♂️ We brought you the BACKSTORY on the details and impacts of the AIR Center projects in a previous blog post from Beneath the Hard Hat^® in May: Moraine Park Technical College Air Center Construction Groundbreaking.

Fast forward to the present, and we're excited to share the latest updates:

🏗️ EXPANSION AND RENOVATION IN FULL SWING

The initial focus has been on the B3 addition. The project is currently in its first phase of renovation, with two more phases to follow for transforming the B Wing into a hub of innovation and excellence.

🏗️ ZOOM IN | CONCRETE PROGRESS: POURING THE FOOTINGS

We're making significant strides with concrete progress. The footings for the new entrance are being poured in the front, a step toward marking the emergence of a fresh gateway to the Air Center. The footings for the B3 addition are already in place, providing a solid foundation for the expansion.

🏗️ WHAT'S NEXT: FROM DEMOLITION TO RECONSTRUCTION

The first phase of demolition has been completed successfully. With a clean slate to work from, the project team is gearing up to bring the first phase of the renovation to life. As we build this revitalized space, the vision of a modern, cutting-edge AIR Center is transformed into a new reality with each passing day.

Date: August 3, 2023 | Author: Tracy Lisowe

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