High school students from DuBois Area High School learn about robotics and automation as part of the Industry 4.0 Academy.
DuBOIS, Pa. — The North Central Pennsylvania (NCPA) LaunchBox powered by Penn State DuBois has launched an initiative aimed at preparing high school seniors for careers in advanced manufacturing and technology. The Industry 4.0 Academy, designed as a hands-on learning experience, introduces students to cutting-edge concepts such as robotics, automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.
Bridging the skills gap
Industries across the board — from manufacturing to healthcare — are increasingly dependent on smart technologies. However, a growing skills gap threatens workforce readiness. The Industry 4.0 Academy addresses this challenge by equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to meet the demands of modern industries.
Six students are participating in the academy’s pilot program, earning continuing education certificates every nine weeks while gaining exposure to emerging career opportunities.
Hands-on learning for a high-tech future
Unlike traditional coursework, the academy emphasizes experiential learning. Students program and operate robotic arms, engage in real-world automation simulations, explore cybersecurity threats and defenses, and develop AI applications for data analysis.
"It has been refreshing to try something new while being provided hands-on, one-on-one instruction," said Lillian Kakabadze, one of the program’s participants. "The trust in our ability to learn these new technologies is unmatched."
The program also fosters problem-solving and innovation, ensuring students develop a critical-thinking mindset that will be crucial for future technological advancements.
“I’ve learned about the technology that affects my daily life, but I have never had the chance to gain hands-on experience with it,” said student Lucian Barnett.
Industry 4.0 Academy students learning about cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity and the digital landscape
As industries continue to digitize, cybersecurity remains a critical component. Students in the Academy explore cybersecurity fundamentals, including ethical hacking, data protection and risk management.
"Before this program, I didn't realize how much of our world depends on cybersecurity," said Clarence Mowrey, another participant. "Every part of this program has provided information that I feel will be useful throughout my everyday life."
A community-endorsed initiative
Wendy Benton, superintendent of the DuBois Area School District, emphasized the importance of the collaboration.
"The partnership between Penn State DuBois and the North Central Pennsylvania LaunchBox represents an extraordinary investment in our students and the broader community,” Benton said. “By introducing DuBois Area High School seniors to robotics, automation, AI and cybersecurity, this program ensures our students are not just prepared for the future but are leading the way in shaping it. This initiative strengthens our workforce and regional economy by addressing the skills gap while fostering critical thinking and innovation. We extend our sincere appreciation to everyone involved in making this program a reality."
Brad Lashinsky, program director, also expressed his enthusiasm.
“It is through these innovative solutions of using the resources of Penn State DuBois, the NCPA LaunchBox and partnerships like the Applied AI Consortium and DuBois Area School District, that make pilot programs like this successful,” Lashinsky said. “We eagerly look forward to the future of this program and the impact it will have on educating the next generation of labor force, supporting manufacturing competitiveness and the regional economy.”
Industry 4.0 Academy students display the items they designed and 3-D printed in the North Central PA LaunchBox Idea Lab.
Commitment to workforce development
By launching this initiative, Penn State DuBois and the NCPA LaunchBox are demonstrating their commitment to regional workforce development and economic growth. Programs like the Industry 4.0 Academy not only educate students but also create pathways to high-demand, high-paying careers.
"At Penn State DuBois, workforce development isn't just a program; it's a core mission, a vital bridge connecting our students to the future. I am incredibly proud to see our campus leading the charge in preparing our community for the burgeoning Industry 4.0 revolution through our new academy. As a professor of information sciences and technology, I understand firsthand the transformative power of emerging technologies," said Jungwoo Ryoo, chancellor and chief academic officer.
"I am especially pleased to see us equipping local high school students with the skills they need to thrive in this new era of technology," Ryoo added. "This initiative embodies our commitment to regional economic growth and the empowerment of our youth. I sincerely thank our dedicated Penn State DuBois team and Superintendent Wendy Benton and her DuBois Area School District team for their invaluable partnership in piloting this groundbreaking academy.”
Future plans include expanding the program to offer additional opportunities to students from other regional school districts. Participants will travel to campus three days a week for hands-on learning while completing supplementary exercises outside the classroom.
School districts that are interested in learning more about future installments of the Industry 4.0 Academy can contact Brad Lashinsky for more information.
To learn more about the NCPA LaunchBox powered by Penn State DuBois, visit its website.
