Clemson University and Omron Automation have officially opened the Automation, Robotics, and Cyber Laboratory (ARC) located in Riggs Hall, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 24. This state-of-the-art facility is situated on the second floor of the building and is outfitted with advanced industrial hardware and software generously provided by Omron Automation and the Omron Foundation.
The lab is designed to give students hands-on experience with the same systems that are driving innovation in manufacturing sectors worldwide, including semiconductor fabrication, automotive assembly, and pharmaceuticals. The technology available in this lab exemplifies the forefront of comprehensive industrial control.
Initially, the ARC lab will support a Creative Inquiry course this fall, with plans for broader integration into Clemson”s electrical and computer engineering curriculum starting at the sophomore level. By incorporating this lab into both educational and research frameworks, Clemson aims to equip future engineers with the skills necessary to thrive in various industrial careers, particularly as the industry increasingly utilizes process data in innovative ways.
The lab emphasizes the integration of digital and physical elements, bridging the hands-on nature of industrial automation with the decision-making enhancements provided by artificial intelligence. This environment will serve as a testing ground for innovative ideas, fostering the development of future problem solvers.
According to Robb Black, CEO of Omron Automation Americas, “This collaboration is about preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers. Our industry depends on talented graduates who can walk into a facility on day one and understand the systems that keep production moving. By investing in Clemson, we are building that pipeline of talent. Together, we are helping ensure students graduate ready to meet the challenges of Industry 4.0.”
In addition to the lab”s establishment, the Omron Foundation has created the “Omron Automation Scholarship Endowment” to provide annual scholarships for engineering students, further supporting their educational journeys.
Among the attendees at the ribbon-cutting was Robert Jones, vice president for academic affairs and provost at Clemson, who remarked, “This new lab is Clemson Elevate in action. It reflects our commitment to creating the nation”s No. 1 student experience through experiential learning, and it shows how university-industry partnerships give students the edge they need to lead in a rapidly changing world. Students will leave here with the confidence and skills that come only from working with the same tools used by professionals across the globe.”
Hassan Raza, principal lecturer of electrical and computer engineering, played a crucial role as Clemson”s lead in developing this lab, while Thomas Kuckhoff, a senior product manager and Clemson alumnus, contributed significantly from Omron”s side. Together, they ensured that the equipment in the lab lays a solid foundation for the long-term success of students.
Anand Gramopadhye, dean of the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences, welcomed the addition of this advanced technology into the curriculum. “This lab represents a milestone for Clemson,” he stated. “Automation is reshaping industries worldwide—manufacturing, chip fabrication, healthcare, energy production, and advanced materials, to name a few. Industrial robotics are key to that transformation, and the lab ensures that Clemson students will have access to the same state-of-the-art systems used in industry today.”
