Automation Fair 2009

University Relations

Automation Fair has always been an educational event. That is why after enjoying great success at last year’s Fair, several universities from across the United States are again taking part in Automation Fair 2009. These schools all have excellent engineering programs and are part of the Rockwell Automation university relations program.

Rockwell Automation provides value to customers through a broad range of partnering activities. The university relations program is an extension of that partnership, where relationships are built with selected universities that offer engineering and technology curricula. Many benefits come from this interaction between industry and academia, and the Rockwell Automation involvement with students and faculty. Students gain exposure to Rockwell Automation technology and its application, helping them become better candidates for future jobs in industry. As noted by one of the student attendees, “It was great to see the wide variety of products and technology used. It really helped to put it in perspective and was very exciting to see. Thanks, Rockwell Automation, for inviting me”.

Automation Fair is truly a win-win situation for everyone involved.

The schools that attended in 2008 expressed their satisfaction with the return they got on their Automation Fair investment. Attendees showed great interest in the degree programs offered by many of the schools. Ideas concerning curriculum and potential projects passed between the universities and attendees that may lead to new partnerships in the future. Many attendees offered to donate equipment to some of the schools and discussed how the universities could incorporate more products into their displays. Finally, university personnel were able to network and build rapport with their colleagues from around the country.

The following universities are currently scheduled to attend this year: