Conestoga students in the Manufacturing Engineering Technology - Welding and Robotics program have access to new learning opportunities thanks to the donation of a robotic welding system from Futaba Industries Ontario (FIO).
FIO, a supplier of automotive body parts, previously used the robot in its expanding Stratford facility, but worked with automation specialist Yaskawa Motoman Canada to have it completely rebuilt and prepared for student use.
Representatives from FIO and Yaskawa Motoman handed off the new system to Conestoga faculty during the Winter term. The donated robot replaced an obsolete unit in the welding robotics lab and has opened new learning avenues for students allowing them to acquire new programming and welding skills using the latest technologies.
“FIO Automotive Canada was proud to partner with Yaskawa Motoman Canada on the robotic welding donation project. As part of our corporate social responsibility we are always looking for ways to support and connect with our community and future talent. We were happy to see the robot being utilized by students during our recent visit, and will continue to support the college when possible,” said FIO’s Jason Pilkey, who is also a member of the Program Advisory Committee for Conestoga’s welding cluster of programs.
“It is through this collaboration with industry that the college is able to meet the demands of industry. The addition of new equipment such as this will allow us to continue the development of individuals destined for the manufacturing environment,” said Joe Barnes, program coordinator and faculty member. “Not only will students use this robot in our regular program courses, but as a tool for students to complete their third-year capstone projects which range from unique welding programming and weld process development to modern advanced manufacturing processes such as additive manufacturing.”
Conestoga’s Manufacturing Engineering Technology - Welding and Robotics three-year advanced diploma program provides extensive hands-on work with welding automation and robotics systems. The curriculum builds on welding technology background with broader knowledge in manufacturing methods and industrial automation.
Visit the program page for more information.