Aramco expands lab capabilities for Michigan Tech Enterprise Program
Dr. Marika Seigel, associate provost for undergraduate education and dean of the Pavlis Honors College at Michigan Technological University, and Andrew Baur, team lead for Transport Technology Integration from the Aramco Research Center–Detroit, join students from MTU’s Enterprise Program to mark the addition of new upgrades expand capabilities in the university’s MMET Machine Shop.
Aramco supports global workforce readiness with a recent event in October on the campus of Michigan Tech University (MTU) celebrating a shared commitment to advancing STEM education and preparing the next generation of engineers, innovators, and leaders.
Aramco’s support for substantial equipment upgrades to the Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology (MMET) Machine Shop expands hands-on opportunities for more than 1,500 students annually through the University’s Enterprise Program, one of its signature experiential learning initiatives.
The new tools are state-of-the-art equipment that deliver greater confidence in design, higher-quality prototypes, and expanded opportunities for MTU’s students to build knowledge and skills to turn their ideas into reality now and later in their careers.
Specifically, a new Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router that uses computer-controlled cutting to produce highly accurate parts from wood, plastics, or metal was installed as well as a CNC lathe enabling users to turn parts up to 16 inches in diameter and 4 feet in length.
Aramco's Andrew Baur tours the Machine Shop talking with students about the technical advances that can be executed on their vehicles by having state-of-the-art equipment.
Equipment Impacts 27 Enterprise teams and Disciplines
The CNC router and lathe give students access to industry-grade tools for designing and fabricating parts, molds, and prototypes with greater precision.
The ripple effect across 27 Enterprise teams and multiple Senior Design teams is significant, impacting student projects in mechanical, electrical, materials, and computer engineering, as well as business, design, and countless other areas.
“We highly value MTU’s specialized laboratory capabilities, especially their advanced diagnostic tools and the hands-on experience students gain through the Enterprise Program,” said Andrew Baur, team lead, Transport Technology Integration, Aramco Research Center-Detroit.
“Our collaboration advances engine combustion and emissions improvements as we drive innovation in lower carbon transportation,” he added.
Aramco’s Andrew Baur gets a demonstration of the Machine Shop’s new CNC router from Michigan Tech student. The equipment produces highly accurate parts from wood, plastics, and metal and expands hands-on learning opportunities.
The Enterprise Program engages 25+ student teams working on real-world projects for industry, government, and community partners. The Advanced Motorsports Enterprise teams, along with many other Enterprise groups such as BoardSport Technologies Enterprise, are among the first to put the new equipment to use.
“Experiential learning is at the heart of what the Enterprise Program does best, and these lab upgrades give our students new opportunities to take their ideas from concept to reality,” said Nagesh Hatti, director of the Enterprise Program. “We’re grateful for Aramco’s support, which helps us prepare students with the technical and leadership skills needed in today’s workforce.”
Aramco, MTU, and Michigan
The support builds on Aramco’s longstanding collaboration with Michigan Tech in advancing engineering education and research.
Aramco’s gift reflects a broader commitment to STEM education in Michigan. For over a decade, the company has supported the Michigan Science Center’s Traveling Science Program, bringing hands-on science experiences to communities throughout the region. Aramco also employs Michigan Tech graduates and interns at its Research Center in Detroit, where teams are advancing fuels research to improve performance and reduce emissions.
