Robotic WorX – a public-private partnership between Millersville University and Precision Cobotics of Lititz that gives college and high school students opportunities to experience real-world automation challenges – has secured its first major commercial sponsorship with Advanced Atomization Technologies (AA Tech) of Clyde, N.Y. AA Tech designs, produces and supports fuel nozzles for aircraft engines.
“This sponsorship provides opportunities for students to come up with engineering solutions for an industry that is new to the program,” says Dr. Marc Harris, dean of Millersville University’s College of Science and Technology. “They’ll be working to meet the defined outcome AA Tech is looking for, which is great preparation for a career in manufacturing.”
Directed by John Bridgen, president of Precision Cobotics, and Dr. John Haughery, associate professor and coordinator for the automation and robotics engineering technology program at Millersville, Robotic WorX helps students connect STEM skills to real-world engineering careers and manufacturers tackle labor and production issues through workforce development and innovative processes.
“Seeing young people rise to the challenge of solving current engineering challenges for some of the global leaders in the industry is priceless! Robotic WorX is quickly becoming a serious workforce destination for students and manufacturers alike.” says Haughery.
Bob Hildebrand, director of product integrity at AA Tech, believes in the program’s impact. “Programs like Robotic WorX are essential for industry growth and for inspiring young minds to enter challenging fields,” he says.
“Beyond the incredible educational impact,” says Bridgen, “this milestone represents a major step toward long-term sustainability and provides tangible proof to our generous seed investors that the Robotic WorX model delivers real commercial value. We’re just getting started. The future of workforce development in automation is bright!”
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Dolheimer, Mary. (2025, December 1) Robotic WorX Secures First Commercial Sponsor. Millersville News. blogs.millersville.edu/news/2025/12/01/robotic-worx-secures-first-commercial-sponsor