The Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center (GCITC) hosted a 53-foot mobile center combining robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing technology. This marked a return visit by the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) and Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (Georgia AIM).
The mobile studio invited students and professionals to have firsthand experience with the latest technology.
“What we’re trying to do today is expose those that are seeking jobs in the manufacturing industry, especially in advanced manufacturing,” GCITC executive director Eric Toler explained for ABD. “Show them how AI helps make it more efficient, effective, and of course, more secure. We’re the security partner on this grant.”
Georgia AIM is a partnership with the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech. It is part of Georgia Tech’s Enterprise Innovation Institute. Associate Vice President Donna Ennis said they are bringing solutions and economic development to communities in order to develop the workforce and talent for manufacturing.
Part of that, she said, is addressing a lingering public relations problem associated with manufacturing.
“People don’t understand. They think of the four Ds: dull, dirty, dangerous, and dark, and manufacturing is not like that anymore,” Ennis said. “You walk into a new manufacturing plant, and it’s like walking into computers and things like that, and we discover that it’s about exposure.”
One goal of the lab is to increase technology literacy, particularly for students. It encourages an interest in careers in AI. It also provides access to aspects of advanced technology education.
To support that work, Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of the Richmond County School System, said students from all high schools were brought to explore the mobile lab.
“Artificial intelligence is going to impact every career, not just those technical developments,” she said. “That’s why we wanted to open it up to everyone and make sure that they know what is in their backyard. They need to see what’s out there, make these connections.”
The mobile lab provided interactions with robotic arms, drones, and 3D printers. The robotic dog and virtual reality stations drew steady groups of students.
Cobb said having GCITC provides a valuable location to get students excited about careers in technology and manufacturing.
“I brought my senior team here earlier in September so that they could tour and make sure they know what’s right here. That way, as we’re making leadership decisions, we’re connecting students,” she said.
Anna Freeman, Director of Outreach and Engagement at the Georgia Cyber Center at Augusta University, said having the mobile lab on campus was an opportunity for students to get out of classrooms and professionals a chance to take a break from their desks.
“Whether you’re a student trying to figure out what you want to do next or a professional looking to understand how AI is changing the workforce, there is something here for you. You can see the technology, ask questions, and get a better idea of where these skills can take you.”
Learn more about Georgia AIM at https://georgiaaim.org/ or by following its Facebook page.
