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Strategically Developed and Shared Technology between Industry and Academia in Engineering Technology Programs Janice Singleton, John C. Anderson

Abstract Establishing a collaborative process between academia and industry is a proven approach to strengthening engineering technology programs. When faced with thousands of possible technological solutions, it becomes impossible for industry to find the most suitable answer to their specific needs. One way to address this issue is to establish a partnership with academia wherein engineering technology institutions serve as an unbiased third party capable of validating proposed solutions through research. This paper describes one such collaboration with the aerospace industry and an institution of higher learning that has proved successful. The institution conducted a comprehensive validation and feasibility study on an automated part positioning prototype for use in present and future aircraft assembly lines. The success of this project has thus far demonstrated the many advantages to such a partnership and serves to strengthen future industry presence within engineering technology programs.

Introduction

There is currently a great deal of interest in the engineering technology community in academia in integrating applied research into the educational environment. This is mirrored by an interest on the part of industry to assess, evaluate and resolve current manufacturing and assembly challenges.

Several things drive the interest of industry and suppliers to involve the academic community in technology research. First, there is an opportunity to expose students and faculty to current issues, processes and procedures in use in industry. Not only do the students directly involved in the research benefit from this, but also students who are exposed by assisting, observing, discussing and listening to the challenges of the project derive benefit. Engineering development projects, particularly when they must be integrated back into a company’s ongoing operations, offer an opportunity for faculty to develop and integrate procedures and project management principles that are current and realistic into their teaching materials and frame of reference.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a world leader in the aerospace industry. One of their key businesses, and one which they are famous for, is the design and manufacture of advanced military aircraft.

The aerospace industry in general and the military aircraft portion of the business specifically, are facing major changes in the future. These include increased pressure from the

Proceedings of the American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2005, American Society for Engineering Education

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Anderson, J., & Singleton, J. (2005, June), Strengthening The Relationship Between Industry And Academia In Engineering Technology Programs Paper presented at 2005 Annual Conference, Portland, Oregon. 10.18260/1-2--14250