Appalachia SMART
Train the Future
Appalachia SMART
Ohio University’s Russ College of Engineering and Technology is proud to announce the Appalachia SMART initiative — a transformative educational program designed to empower educators with the tools, training, and certifications needed to advance robotics, automation, and manufacturing education across the region. Supported by a $2.25M contract from the Department of Defense in collaboration with ARCTOS, this initiative will strengthen workforce development in Southeast Ohio by preparing educators and students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.
Through Appalachia SMART, teachers at high schools, community colleges, and career centers can gain access to specialized training in cutting-edge fields like robotics and automation integration. These programs will not only expand curriculum offerings but also provide participants with industry-recognized certifications at no cost.
Why Appalachia SMART?
Appalachia SMART was created to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in automation and advanced manufacturing. By offering educators free access to certification programs, lesson plans, and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art technology, we are making it easier for schools to incorporate advanced manufacturing concepts into their curriculum. This program helps educators become certified trainers themselves, creating a ripple effect of learning that will benefit students and communities across the region.
What We Offer:
- Industry-recognized certifications for educators in robotics and automation.
- Professional development opportunities for educators to expand their expertise.
- Curriculum materials and resources to implement advanced manufacturing training in your classroom.
- Connections to industry partners and potential funding sources for equipment and program development.
Train the Trainer Event Series
The Train the Trainer event series offers educators hands-on training and industry certifications in robotics and automation to expand advanced manufacturing education across Southeast Ohio.
Our Vision for the Future
As Appalachia SMART grows, we aim to introduce new credentialing opportunities, expand partnerships with local industries, and provide more advanced training modules. The ultimate goal is to empower educators to shape the next generation of skilled workers, driving economic growth and job creation in Southeast Ohio.
Resources
Explore these valuable resources to support your training and instructional needs in robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing. From learning management systems to certification providers, these platforms offer essential tools and information to enhance your educational journey with Appalachia SMART.
- FANUC America: Access robotics training programs and certifications from an industry leader in automation education.
- Rockwell Automation: Workforce development resources and training on automation, including certification courses in PLC programming and controls.
- NOCTI Certification: Industry-recognized certification assessments in technical skills and competencies, widely respected across education and industry sectors.
- AMATROL LMS: A learning management system offering interactive training content and simulations for advanced manufacturing skills.
- OHIO LMS: Ohio University’s Canvas platform, providing a centralized location for course materials, assignments, and communication for participants in the Appalachia SMART program.
Contact
If you have any questions about the Appalachia SMART initiative, please contact:
Dr. Zaki Kuruppalil
Professor & Department Chair, Engineering Technology and Management
kuruppal@ohio.edu
740.593.0258
The train the trainer program is supported by Ohio University Work Group named “Appalachia SMART” and identified as “Train the Future”, which is funded by the US Airforce Research Laboratory through AFRL Contract titled “OAI-SMDTH-24844 Smart Manufacturing Digital Thread managed by ARCTOS Technology Solutions through the OAI DRIVE Consortium.