Robotics are changing the face of advanced manufacturing and A-B Tech Community College is now a Certified Education Training institution for FANUC North America.
FANUC is one of the leading robot manufacturers in the world. They are the leading supplier of automation for manufacturing. Their product lines include CNC, robotic, and robo-machine equipment.
Many advanced manufacturers here in Western North Carolina use FANUC robots and controls, which was the main reason to partner with FANUC Corporation, according to Kevin Kiser, chairman of the computer-integrated machining, mechanical engineering technology, and industrial systems technology department.
Being a certified training institution allows A-B Tech to train and certify students in FANUC’s material handling program software using the FANUC LR 200iD/4S Mate series robot. The purchase of this robot was made possible by a Perkins Grant and by working with our local FANUC Education Authorized Reseller, Technical Training Aids, Inc.
In addition to the LR 200iD/4S Mate series robot, A-B Tech also has an RJ2 Arcmate robot that can perform welding processes; and other revolute and articulating robots providing hands-on learning for students in the program.
This certification is awarded to students who successfully complete the ATR-212 – Industrial Robotics course. This is the second level robotics and automation course offered at A-B Tech.
This past spring there were eleven mechanical engineering technology and industrial systems technology students that completed the certification in the inaugural semester. (8 out of the 11 students are shown)
Kiser became certified to teach the FANUC curriculum after completing training and testing by FANUC Corporation. “The new certification will demonstrate to prospective employers that A-B Tech students have some level of robotic knowledge beneficial to their manufacturing processes and makes them more appealing to hire,” says Kiser.
Students can also pursue a certificate in Automation and Robotics at A-B Tech that encompasses 16 credit hours. This certificate is designed to develop the fundamental skills necessary to safely operate and maintain robotic and automated equipment. It also prepares students for employment opportunities in automated industries.
In a recent press release from the Robotics Industries Association:
North American robotics companies posted the strongest ever first-quarter results, according to the Robotic Industries Association (RIA), the industry’s trade group. Both robot orders and shipments achieved record levels.
An all-time high total of 9,773 robots valued at approximately $516 million were ordered from North American robotics companies during the first quarter of 2017. This represents growth of 32 percent in units over the same period in 2016, which held the previous record. Order revenue grew 28 percent over the first quarter of last year. Robot shipments also reached new heights, with 8,824 robots valued at $494 million shipped to North American customers in the opening quarter of the year. This represents growth of 24 percent in units and five percent in dollars over the same period in 2016.
“The automation industry continues to grow robustly as companies invest to increase productivity and boost competitiveness while also providing opportunities for workers,” said Jeff Burnstein, President of RIA.
In an article in USA Today, written by Paul Davidson, published 2-9-2015:
Manufacturers will significantly accelerate their use of robots in US factories over the next decade as they become cheaper and perform more tasks.
About 1.2 million additional advanced robots are expected to be deployed in the US by 2025.
“We are excited about this new partnership with FANUC Corporation. We want our students graduating in Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Systems Technology to be knowledgeable in robotic programming to provide them the skills necessary to succeed in advanced manufacturing and automation. With the increase in the use of robots and automation, our students should have the high-tech skills to match the job needs in our local area. This new certification with FANUC Corporation will better prepare our graduates to fill the need for skilled workers in Western North Carolina,” reiterates Kiser.
For further information about robotics and degrees in Mechanical Engineering Technology or Industrial Systems Technology contact Kevin Kiser at A-B Tech (828) 398-7342.
