In this podcast episode, Mike Lesiecki hosts Alexandra Gorgevska, Department Chair for the Biotechnology Program at Palm Beach State College, as they discuss integrating emerging technologies into educational programs. Alexandra shares insights into the modifications made to the biotechnology program, highlighting partnerships with industry and the importance of adapting curriculum to meet industry demands. They focus on the introduction of spreadsheet skills in the curriculum, addressing challenges and strategies for implementation. Their discussion underscores the need for relevant skills in ..read more

This episode provides a better understanding of why everyone needs basic cybersecurity awareness as Mike and guest John Sands explore the booming demand for cybersecurity professionals across industries, emerging threats, and the critical skills needed to combat them. They also discuss how community colleges are equipping the next generation with the knowledge and tools to succeed by integrating cybersecurity modules into existing training programs to create a cybersecurity-savvy workforce ..read more

This episode delves into the pivotal role of data analytics in modern technical fields, particularly in Northern Utah's manufacturing sector. Mike and guests Mason Lefler and Scott Danielson explore the evolving landscape of technician education, emphasizing the importance of cross-disciplinary STEM skills and the need for educational institutions to adapt to industry demands. They discuss the integration of data analytics into technician training programs, highlighting initiatives such as grants for developing data analytics courses and automated manufacturing trainers. They also touch on cha ..read more

In this debut episode of our extended podcast/webinar series, we take off on an enlightening journey as we navigate autonomous technologies with special guest Zackary Nicklin of the National Center for Autonomous Technologies. Episode Highlights: Exploring Autonomous Technologies: Join us as we delve into the transformative concept of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Zackary shares his expertise on the implementation of autonomous systems across industries with valuable commentary about it as it relates to the ever-evolving technological landscape. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): Discover the future ..read more

In this episode, Mike and Kevin delve into the burgeoning realms of renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs). They explore the need for collaboration with educational institutions to train future professionals and identify job opportunities in the EV sector. Drawing from his visit to Tesla's Gigafactory, Kevin discusses manufacturing processes and emphasize the importance of safety certifications and coupling EVs with renewable energy sources. Additionally, he sheds light on the development of EV programs in Southeastern states and initiatives to address gender disparities in the automotiv ..read more

In this episode, Todd Christensen joins Mike to talk about integrated sensors, MEMS, and how advanced digital technologies are increasing the complexity of the tools and skills required by technicians. Digitalization means technicians must be equipped with a broad range of cross-disciplinary stem skills. Todd also shares his take on the recent bill for chip manufacturing and research and how it could impact the workforce. Find out what Todd believes will be the next big thing and what advice he would offer to educators, employers, and future technicians ..read more

In this episode, Mike interviews Jake Hall, the "Manufacturing Millennial" for a fresh perspective on the next generation of technicians. With emerging technologies in Industry 4.0, Jake shares his thoughts about how factories are transforming and what the manufacturing sector needs to do to recruit and develop young talent ..read more

Host Mike Lesiecki interviews Jordan Morrow, the “Godfather of Data Literacy.” They discuss how technicians can become proficient in interpreting and communicating data and why these skills are more important than ever for the future of work. They examine what certification programs and pathways for data literacy and data analytics are emerging to help address the critical functions of data literacy and data analytics. Mike and Jordan explore how instructors can begin integrating data literacy and analytics into their own programs so that students are ready to work with data to diagnose and ma ..read more

Host Mike Lesiecki interviews Eric Wooldridge and learns how Eric’s education and broad industry experience in engineering, architecture, and farming help him develop curricula in additive manufacturing/3D printing for Somerset’s 16 college sites and satellites.Hear about innovations happening in additive manufacturing on the front-lines of education, and discover which skills in the Cross-Disciplinary Stem Core technicians will need as the demand for additive manufacturing/3D printing by various industries intensifies. You’ll want to stay until the end as Mike and Eric discuss how faculty can ..read more

Join Mike and his guest, Justin Manley, as they take us on a seafaring exploration of the "blue economy" and the possibilities for technicians in this unique working environment. From his early days running a research lab building ocean robots at MIT to his current role on the business side, Justin brings his comprehensive take on ocean tech and the transferability of technical skills from one industry to another ..read more