Wichita, KS — April 10, 2024 —Today, Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) proudly announces the grand opening of the Gene Haas Innovation Lab, a premier facility designed to propel technical education into a new era of excellence. The opening ceremony, hosted at WSU Tech’s National Center for Aviation Training, celebrates the establishment of a significant educational asset in CNC machining and manufacturing, made possible by a $1 million grant from the Gene Haas Foundation.
“Today marks a pivotal advancement for WSU Tech and the broader manufacturing sector in our region,” Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech, remarked during the ribbon-cutting. The Gene Haas Innovation Lab is the embodiment of our dedication to equipping students with superior training and opening doors to rewarding careers in a field that continues to grow. With this state-of-the-art facility, we’re ensuring our graduates are prepared to meet industry demands head-on.”
Encompassing over 6,500 square feet, the Gene Haas Innovation Lab is equipped with the latest CNC machinery and educational tools, mirroring a modern manufacturing workplace. This interactive setting enables students to acquire practical skills vital for thriving in the advanced manufacturing industry.
Kathy Looman, Director of Education for the Gene Haas Foundation, emphasized, “Gene Haas’s commitment to education that aligns with real-world employment opportunities in machining is truly manifested here. Witnessing WSU Tech’s stride in enhancing technical education through this lab is a moment of great pride and excitement for us at the foundation.”
Coinciding with the lab’s inauguration, the event highlighted the recipients of the Gene Haas Machining Scholarship, underscoring the direct benefits of this collaborative endeavor. The scholarship facilitates the pursuit of technical certifications in CNC Operations or Machining Technology for a diverse group of students.
“Seeing this investment in our education is truly amazing,” said Raven Austin, WSU Tech Machining student and Gene Haas scholarship recipient. “Having access to the Gene Haas Innovation Lab is a remarkable opportunity for all students. The lab will be a great source of hands-on learning with industry-leading technology. This investment highlights the value placed on machining students’ development and potential.”
Today’s event included tours of the lab, demonstrations of the cutting-edge equipment, and the opening of two fully equipped classrooms. The opening attracted a wide range of attendees, including government dignitaries, delegates from the American Technical Education Association National Conference, and representatives from local industry, showcasing the collective support for the advancement of technical education.
Individuals interested in learning more about the WSU Tech Machining Technology program are encouraged to attend an enrollment event on April 17, 2024, at 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. at the National Center for Aviation Training, located at 4004 N. Webb Road. For more information or to register, visit www.wsutech.edu/Machining.
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About WSU Tech and WSU Tech Foundation
As Wichita State University’s Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology, WSU Tech stands at the forefront of modern technical education in Kansas, offering over 100 degree and certificate options. These programs cover critical fields such as aviation, health care, manufacturing, design, information technology, police science, culinary arts, business, and more. WSU Tech operates four campuses and serves as the managing partner of the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) in Wichita, KS—a city known for its high concentration of STEM jobs.
In 2018, Wichita State University, Kansas’ urban public research hub, affiliated with WSU Tech, enhancing the institution’s student-centered focus and aligning with Wichita State’s dedication to innovation and applied learning. This partnership has created a comprehensive educational environment that supports student achievement and meets the evolving needs of industries in the urban heart of Kansas and beyond.
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and as a Kansas Board of Regents institution, WSU Tech upholds high academic standards and equips students with the skills necessary for lifelong success and career readiness.
For more information on how WSU Tech shapes the future of technical education and contributes to the workforce in Kansas and beyond, please visit www.WSUTECH.edu.
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The WSU Tech Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to help change the lives of WSU Tech students through scholarships and emergency loans thanks to generous private gifts, community contributions and employee support. For more information, visit www.WSUTECH.edu/FOUNDATION.
About the Gene Haas Foundation
The Gene Haas Foundation is committed to providing support and funding to institutions and initiatives that advance CNC machinist training. Founded by Gene Haas, the founder of Haas Automation, Inc., one of the world’s leading CNC machine tool builders, the foundation aims to create a skilled and competitive workforce in the manufacturing industry through education and training.
