Lancaster County STEM Alliance Honors Outstanding Pre-Service Teacher

The Lancaster County STEM Alliance held its annual Excellence in Education Reception & Awards Ceremony on Nov. 7 at Millersville University, bringing together educators, leaders and students to recognize outstanding impact in local schools. The event highlighted the work of teachers across Lancaster County and celebrated the next generation of educators preparing to enter the field.
Rebecca Hahn received the Outstanding Pre-Service Teacher Award.
Rebecca Hahn received the Outstanding Pre-Service Teacher Award.

Current Millersville technology and engineering education major Rebecca Hahn received the Outstanding Pre-Service Teacher Award for her hands-on, instructional work at Warwick Middle School. Hahn designed projects in which students built pneumatic systems for VEX robots, explored electrical circuits and applied coding and problem-solving skills to real-world challenges. Hahn says, “Receiving the Outstanding Pre-Service Teacher Award is incredibly meaningful to me. Personally, it reaffirms that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”

She believes that her goal as an educator is not only to teach future engineers but also to help every student find joy in learning. She adds, “Hands-on, inquiry-based learning allows students to take ownership of their work, make mistakes and figure things out in real time. It sparks curiosity and confidence, and it shows students that education isn’t just about getting the right answer – it’s about the process of discovering how things work and why.”

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Anderson, Ari. (2025, December 8). MU Alum, Student Honored with Lancaster STEM Alliance Awards. Millersville News. blogs.millersville.edu/news/2025/12/08/mu-alum-student-honored-with-lancaster-stem-alliance-awards

Robotic WorX Secures First Commercial Sponsor

System Chancellor Fiorentino visited the Robotic WorX lab in November.
System Chancellor Fiorentino visited the Robotic WorX lab in November.

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

MU Faculty & Graduate Assistant Recognized at 1909 Conference in Memphis, TN

The annual meeting of the 1909 conference was held in Memphis, TN on November 20-21, 2025. Millersville University was represented by Dr. Scott Warner and Dr. Molly Miller, and graduate assistant Madison Hansen. The conference represents a combination of two long-standing groups within technology and engineering education, the Mississippi Valley Technology Teacher Education Conference and the Southeastern Technology Education Conference. The conference exists with the goal of advancing thought, research, and practice in technology & engineering education.
1909’s newest members: Madison Hansen (left), Joseph Kaskel (center), Samuel Munzer
1909’s newest members: Madison Hansen (left), Joseph Kaskel (center), Samuel Munzer
Current student and graduate assistant, Madison Hansen, and recent alumni and former graduate assistant Joseph Kaskel, were admitted to full membership at this year’s conference. This is an elite group of individuals nationwide who must first be invited by a current member, attend multiple conferences, and be recommended for membership by a current active member. Congratulations to Maddie and Joe!
EPT Executive Director Dr. Kevin R. Howell with Dr. Miller
EPT Executive Director Dr. Kevin R. Howell with Dr. Miller

Maddie Hansen, Joe Kaskel, and faculty member Dr. Molly Miller each presented sessions at the conference based on their current research and findings. Maddie presented a session titled, “A Qualitative Comparison of Undergraduate Student Motivation Toward Making and Doing,” on undergraduate inclination towards hands-on learning and creation, a collaboration with current adjunct faculty Dr. Justin Egresitz. Joe presented a session titled “Exploring Expert Opinions for Defining Computer Science in K-12,” centered around his ongoing doctoral dissertation focused upon defining computer science education. Dr. Miller presented the session titled “From Training to Teaching: A Call for a Philosophical Renaissance in Technology Education, highlighting the importance of educational theory and philosophy within technology and engineering teacher preparation programs.

Dr. Miller was selected by her peers at the conference to be awarded the 2025 Epsilon Pi Tau Outstanding Presentation Award.

TEECA @ MU Compete at East Coast TEECA Regional

TEECA @ MU brought 25 members to the TEECA Eastern Regional Conference in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware on November 6-8, 2025.

CONGRATULATIONS & thanks for competing at the East Coast TEECA Regional held in Rehoboth Beach, November 6-8, 2025.
CONGRATULATIONS & thanks for competing at the East Coast TEECA Regional held in Rehoboth Beach, November 6-8, 2025.

Two faculty advisors also joined the trip where they served as event coordinators and judges, Dr. Alex Johnson and Dr. Molly Miller. All student members participated in at least one event, competing against students from four other east coast universities. There were also team building sessions and a dinner banquet with a keynote speaker. We are very proud of ALL student participants for their professional representation of MU and their hard work and effort in preparing and competing in their respective contests. TEECA @ MU placed in the top 3 at every event at the conference!

Integrative STEM – First Place
Manufacturing – Second Place
Transportation – Second Place
K-5 STEM Challenge – Second Place
Poster Session – Second Place
Problem Solving – Second Place
Teaching Lesson – Second Place
Robotics – Third Place
Communications – Third Place

Continue reading “TEECA @ MU Compete at East Coast TEECA Regional”

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!

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.

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.

Continue reading “PASSHE Chancellor Fiorentino and President Wubah Tour Robotic WorX”

Epsilon Pi Tau Inducts 13 on October 24, 2025

On Friday, October 24th, 2025 the Beta Phi Chapter of Epsilon Pi Tau held its yearly induction event at Millersville University. Epsilon Pi Tau, the International Honors Society for Professions in Technology, welcomed thirteen new members and their loved ones to Lehr Dining Hall for a formal dinner followed by the induction ceremony where the 2025 class officially became members in good standing.

Initiates
2024 Epsilon Pi Tau, Beta Phi Members in Good Standing
Trustee Egresitz & Dr. Len Litowitz
Trustee Dr. Justin Egresitz & Dr. Len S. Litowitz

A special highlight of the evening now retired professor Dr. Litowitz was recognized for his service and had a chapter award created in his honor. The award will be given annually to any member who demonstrates meritorious service to student and/or professional organizations. The first recipient of “The Litowitz” was Beta Phi Chapter President Ms. Rebecca Hahn. Congratulations to Rebecca! We look forward to seeing who will step up and claim the award next year! A final, special thank you goes out to the student initiation team for their work and parts in the ceremony. Initiation team members included: Rebecca Hahn, Greta Widmaier, Melissa Perez, Elliot Walker, Alex Impink, Tommy Kunhs, Maddie Hansen, Professor English, and Dr. Egresitz.

Team
2025 EPT Induction Team

Epsilon Pi Tau, Or EPT, is THE honors society of the Department of Applied Engineering, Safety, and Technology at Millersville University. Recognized internationally for its mission of highlighting and honoring the great work of persons in technology-related fields of study, EPT boasts chapters located around the world with thousands of high-achieving members. Membership eligibility is determined by the number of credits earned and Major GPA. Only the best and brightest are invited to become members, so work hard and look for an invitation early in the fall semester.

Be on the lookout for EPT-sponsored activities happening in Osburn Hall this year, you won’t want to miss them!

By: Dr. Justin Egresitz

2025 AEST Technology & Engineering Education Awards

The AEST Technology & Engineering Education Awards were presented during the annual TEEAP Conference Luncheon on Friday, October 24, 2025. The Department proudly recognizes the achievements of several of our alumni.

Technology & Engineering Education Ambassador Award

The Ambassador Award was given to Mr. Korbin Shearer in recognition of outstanding support of the Technology & Engineering Education program through recruitment and mentoring of future teachers and leaders.

2025 Technology & Engineering Education Ambassador Award
Mr. Korbin Shearer (right), Career, College, and Workforce Coordinator at York Suburban High School, pictured with Dr. Molly Miller (left), AEST Assistant Professor.

Technology & Engineering Education Mentor Award

The Mentor Award was presented to Mr. Tim Rice in recognition of exceptional mentoring of teacher candidates and longstanding commitment to the preparation of the next generation of Technology & Engineering Education teachers. (Photo not available)

Emerging Leader Award

The Emerging Leader Award was presented to Ms. Marie Leatherman in recognition of outstanding leadership, commitment, and service to Technology and Engineering Education by a young professional.

2025 Emerging Leader Award
Ms. Marie Leatherman (right), Technology & Engineering Educator, Pennridge High School, pictured with Dr. Molly Miller (left), AEST Assistant Professor.

Innovative Educator Award

The Innovative Educator Award was presented to Mrs. Cortney Hauer in recognition and celebration of extraordinary talent, creativity, ingenuity, and enthusiasm by an innovative teacher in the field of Technology and Engineering Education.

2025 Innovative Educator Award
Mrs. Cortney Hauer (right), Technology & Engineering Educator, Manheim Township High School, pictured with Dr. Molly Miller (left), AEST Assistant Professor.

 

By: Prof. Donna Painter

 

 

 

Millersville Students and Faculty Receive 2025 TEEAP Awards

Several awards and scholarships were presented during the luncheon at the 2025 TEEAP from A Blueprint for Success in STEM on October 24, 2025. The TEEAP association proudly recognized the following individuals for their service and contributions to the growth of the profession.

The William J. Wilkinson Scholarship

William J. Wilkinson Scholarship Winners
Pictured Left to Right: Matthew LaBar, currently a student teacher at Lampeter-Strasburg High School; Korbin Shearer, TEEAP President; and Alyssa Warner currently student teaching at Manheim Township High School.

The Technology & Engineering Education Association of Pennsylvania (TEEAP) awards a scholarship annually to assist outstanding technology education students during their student teaching placement in their preparation as technology education teachers. The purpose of the scholarship is to promote the growth and leadership of prospective technology education teachers. It is to be used for paying undergraduate tuition, fees, and other expenses related to student teaching at a Pennsylvania university preparing technology education teachers.

Michael Whitman Memorial Outstanding Service Award

This award is presented to current member who is perceived by his or her peers and colleagues as performing daily duties in an excellent or superior manner. They must have demonstrated consistent professional interest and leadership during the previous three years and have been involved in special activities and made significant contributions to technology and engineering education within the past year.

TEEAP Outstanding Service Award
Dr. Molly Miller (right), Assistant Professor Millersville University receives the Outstanding Service Award from Korbin Shearer (left) TEEAP President. 

TEEAP Presidential Special Recognition Award

TEEAP Presidential Special Service Award
Dr. Scott Warner, Professor (left), Dr. Len Litowitz, Professor Emeritus (right), and Dr. Sharon Brusic, Professor Emerita (not pictured) were presented with the Presidential Special Recognition Award by outgoing TEEAP President Korbin Shearer (center).

This special recognition is presented to any individual or group of individuals that the President determines to be appropriate during their time in office.

By: Prof. Donna Painter