Month: November 2025

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Thanksgiving in AEST

The Department of Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology took a break from its busy routine to celebrate Thanksgiving before everyone departed to spend the holiday with family and friends. Dr. Jack Ogutu opened the gathering with welcoming remarks, joined by Dean Marc Harris and Provost Gail Gasparich. Thanksgiving offers a meaningful moment to reflect on how fortunate we are to be part of the Millersville University community and to work alongside talented students and dedicated colleagues.
Thanksgiving luncheon in AEST
Thanksgiving luncheon in AEST
Chair Jack Ogutu addressing those attending AEST Thanksgiving Luncheon
Chair Jack Ogutu addressing those attending AEST Thanksgiving Luncheon
Three former AEST Chairs were in attendance for the AEST luncheon as well. Dr. Barry David, Dr. Len Litowitz, and Dr. Perry Gemmill
Three former AEST Chairs were in attendance for the AEST luncheon as well. Dr. Barry David, Dr. Len Litowitz, and Dr. Perry Gemmill
The AEST Thanksgiving luncheon is a cherished tradition—so longstanding that no one can quite remember when the first one took place, only that it predates the department’s longest-serving employee. Staff members contribute their favorite dishes, and graduate assistants, student groups, and student workers are invited to share in the celebration. It’s an event many look forward to each year.
Warm Thanksgiving wishes to you and your family from all of us in AEST!
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Ready, Set, Recruit! AEST Exploration Day Fall 2025

A panel of student representing all majors in the department shared candid opinions on the programs and their experiences in AEST with those attending Exploration Day.
A panel of student representing all majors in the department shared candid opinions on the programs and their experiences in AEST with those attending Exploration Day.

AEST staff and students welcomed 120 prospective high school students, along with their teachers and parents, to an Exploration Day event in Osburn Hall this November. Organized by AEST faculty, Exploration Day invites interested students to experience the program during a typical weekday, offering an authentic look at life in Osburn Hall. The event complements the University’s weekend Open House series, which takes place when the building is quieter. Exploration Day aims to show what current students and alumni already know—AEST thrives on activity, engagement, and hands-on learning.

AEST staff and students welcomed 120 students and guests to the fall 2025 Exploration Day.
AEST staff and students welcomed 120 students and guests to the fall 2025 Exploration Day.
The day follows a simple rhythm: meet, greet, and get moving. Visitors are welcomed by a faculty member and Dean Harris, equipped with safety glasses, and guided through Osburn Hall for demonstrations and hands-on activities. After an in-depth tour, participants enjoy lunch at The Upper Deck before returning for a student-led panel discussion. Faculty are also available throughout the event and afterward via email for any additional questions.
We’re already looking forward to our next Exploration Day on March 31, 2026. Registration information will be shared here as the date approaches.
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PASSHE Chancellor Fiorentino and President Wubah Tour Robotic WorX

Millersville University recently welcomed PASSHE Chancellor Dr. Christopher Fiorentino and Millersville President Dr. Daniel Wubah to the Department of Applied Engineering, Safety and Technology for a hands-on tour of the Robotic WorX program and Solutions Lab—an initiative that exemplifies Millersville’s commitment to applied learning, innovation, and workforce development.

Robotics Worx students welcomed Chancelor Fiorentino and Dr. Wubah to the lab on a recent visit.
Robotic WorX students welcomed Chancelor Fiorentino and Dr. Wubah to the lab on a November 10, 2025. Pictured (L to R) Ermias Wogari, Quinn Foura, Alex Nikkanen, Chancellor Fiorentino, Chris Shenberger, Dr. Wubah, John Bridgen, Isabella Persaud, Matt Way, and Dr. John Haughery

Robotic WorX is a collaborative workforce development and career exploration program that engages both high school and university students in solving real-world manufacturing challenges provided by regional industry partners. The program serves as a bridge between education and employment by deepening and broadening students’ experience in automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies while helping industry collaborators identify emerging talent and innovative solutions.

Describing the lab to Chancellor Fiorentino
John Bridgen gives Chancellor Fiorentino an overview of the Robotics Worx initiative and discusses the impacts that it is having on MU students and the region.

Through project-based learning, students work in multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and prove automation systems that address actual production or process needs. These experiences not only enhance technical and problem-solving skills but also expose students to the collaborative and iterative nature of modern engineering work.

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