William Penn University Secures $35,000 Toward Collaborative Robotics System for Industrial Technology and Engineering Programs

09/22/2026

William Penn University has received $35,000 in foundation grants toward a collaborative robot (cobot) system for its industrial technology and engineering programs, with a $25,000 grant from the Vermeer Charitable Foundation and $10,000 from the Pella Rolscreen Foundation. The University plans to install the system in January 2027, giving students direct experience with the automation technology now standard on regional production floors.

Manufacturers across south-central Iowa increasingly want new hires who can run collaborative robots: machines designed to share the floor with people rather than work sealed off behind guarding, as is common with older automation. The new equipment lets William Penn students build that skill before they graduate.

“Adding a collaborative robot to our laboratory will give students the hands-on automation skills industry urgently needs,” said Haluk Kucuk, Associate Professor of Engineering. “The Vermeer Charitable Foundation and Pella Rolscreen Foundation’s support will help prepare a workforce ready to step into modern production environments and strengthen advanced manufacturing in our community.”

The addition reflects William Penn’s mission to pair a values-centered education with the practical skills its graduates carry into their careers and communities.