Enhancing Experiential Learning in Mechatronics: The NSF ExLENT Initiative for a Diverse and Skilled STEM Workforce

This NSF ExLENT project strategically enhances experiential learning opportunities in Mechatronics, targeting the support of a diverse and evolving STEM workforce.This initiative responds to regional economic demands by equipping participants with advanced skills in emerging technology areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity, which are crucial for modern industrial automation systems.Amid the growing demand for proficient Mechatronics professionals, the project identifies a critical gap in the availability of practical, hands-on workforce development programs, particularly those inclusive of diverse populations often underrepresented in technical fields.To address this, the project establishes a multifaceted platform consisting of an online Mechatronics Education Portal (MEP), experiential Mechatronics Practice (MP) initiatives hosted at Michigan Technological University, and a structured Mechatronics Industry Pathways Rotation.These components are designed to offer immersive learning experiences across the five foundational pillars of Mechatronics: Robotics, Mechanics, Electronics/Controls, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence.Collaboration is a cornerstone of the project, leveraging a diverse network of partnerships with educational institutions such as Michigan Tech, Gogebic Community College, and West Shore Community College, along with three nonprofit organizations and nine industry leaders in the region.This collaborative framework not only enhances educational offerings but also ensures alignment with industry standards and needs.To gauge the initiative's success and impact, a comprehensive program evaluation is implemented.This evaluation framework assesses whether the project meets its objectives in providing interdisciplinary Mechatronics training, fostering a diverse and inclusive STEM workforce, and facilitating sustainable collaborations that contribute to effective workforce preparation and placement.Furthermore, this paper details the achievements and learnings from the first year of implementation, including the development of specific project materials, the rollout of educational tools, the results of project-specific training, and the methodologies employed in the ongoing evaluation process.By focusing on these areas, the NSF ExLENT project aims to bridge the gap in Mechatronics education and training, ultimately contributing to the development of a skilled and diverse workforce ready to meet the challenges of modern industrial automation systems.The project has transitioned to the Year 2 of its implementation.Year 1 marked successful development of the Mechatronics Portal and its educational materials and tools.The first cohort of students successfully completed the training and provided the project management team with highly positive feedback regarding to the received training.