St. Catharines – The Ontario government is ensuring local students have access to modern facilities, learning tools and advanced equipment to develop the skills required to succeed in a rapidly evolving workforce. The province is investing more than $900,000 through the Training Equipment and Renewal Fund at Brock University, supporting the development of a new Artificial Intelligence Robotics and Mechatronics Lab.
“This support for engineering and computer science programs at Brock University will ensure students and instructors have access to advanced equipment to meet business and industry standards and enhance the overall learning experience,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.
“By investing in post-secondary infrastructure, we are not only supporting our local economy right here in Niagara but ensuring students develop the technology and innovation skills they need to succeed in the workforce.”
“Our government is building the workforce of tomorrow – one that is adaptable, cutting-edge and innovative,” said Hon. Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.
“By investing in state-of-the-art buildings and learning equipment, we are ensuring Ontario’s students are equipped to thrive as leaders in the modern economy.”
The new teaching lab at Brock will give students access to cutting-edge equipment, allowing them to build a strong, skilled foundation for careers in Artificial Intelligence, software engineering, robotics, data science and technological innovation.
“Industries everywhere, from advanced manufacturing and automated logistics to technology research labs, are looking for people who can make machines smarter and more efficient,” said Peng Wu, Associate Professor and Chair of the Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering at Brock University.
“By focusing on this area, students move from just using technology to actually designing it, positioning themselves to lead teams and manage the automated environments of the future.”
“The lab will give students the ability to design, train and evaluate intelligent systems in real-world environments, better understanding their practical applications,” said Dr. Beatrice Ombuki-Berman, Professor and Chair of the Department of Computer Science at Brock University.
“By studying Artificial Intelligence and robotics together, students gain an understanding of how intelligent systems can interpret information, solve problems and interact with the world around them. These skills are becoming increasingly valuable across a wide range of careers and industries.”
The Training Equipment and Renewal Fund provides annual funding to help universities buy state-of-the-art equipment that supports in-person or virtual learning, helps to meet industry or business standards, or supports enrolment growth.
By investing in modern facilities and high-quality learning experiences, the Ontario government is ensuring students across the province are equipped to thrive in a modern, rapidly evolving workforce.