Emerson, a global technology and engineering company based in St. Louis, donated $500,000 to Ozarks Technical Community College’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CAM).
“The next-generation of workers is vital for continuing to serve our customers with solutions and components for energy-efficient air-conditioning systems,” said Keith Calhoun, director of operations for Emerson’s compressor manufacturing locations in Missouri. “We make millions of compressors in our Lebanon and Ava facilities every year, and we can only do that with the right workforce. That’s why this commitment from Emerson to OTC is right in our wheelhouse.”
Emerson’s gift is the first of what the OTC Foundation hopes will be $10 million in private donations for the approximately $40 million Center for Advanced Manufacturing. The CAM will provide training and education in robotics, mechatronics and automation, along with other modern manufacturing methods. Additionally, the CAM will feature space for companies like Emerson to conduct research and develop new processes and equipment
“Emerson is a major player in the economic impact of this community. They are showing their appreciation to the community and their faith in OTC by investing in the CAM,” said Hal Higdon, OTC chancellor.
OTC and Emerson have had a relationship for years. Currently, Emerson employs 32 OTC graduates, and more are pursuing their degrees from the college.
Emerson’s gift will help young students develop an interest in manufacturing. The CAM will be home to the Emerson Innovation Discovery Lab, which will provide an introduction to advanced manufacturing practices. The lab will also serve as a starting and ending point for facility tours, featuring hands-on activities for students and tour participants.
“The Emerson Innovation Discovery Lab inside CAM will be the first stop on all tours,” said Robert Randolph, CAM executive director. “Visitors will get to see lots of cool, innovative, new technology and learn what advanced manufacturing is all about.”
To hear from Emerson and OTC officials about the importance of Emerson’s gift to the future of the Center for Advanced Manufacturing, watch this video.
For more information on the Center for Advanced Manufacturing, visit cam.otc.edu.
To learn more about Emerson, visit emerson.com.
