Campus visit highlights new programs, hands-on labs, and NSF-supported outreach to the next generation of STEM professionals

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Students from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School’s chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers recently visited Kentucky State University for a closer look at academic pathways in engineering and emerging technology fields.

During the visit, students explored Kentucky State’s new programs in Manufacturing Engineering Technology and Biological and Agricultural Engineering, while gaining firsthand exposure to the labs, equipment, and applied learning environments that support those fields.

Hosted by Dr. Jyotica Batra, chair of the School of Engineering and Technology; Dr. Chi Shen, dean of the College of Business, Engineering, and Technology; and members of the engineering and computer science faculty, the campus experience introduced students to the growing range of engineering opportunities available at the University.

Faculty members shared how the new programs are designed to prepare students for careers in advanced manufacturing, biological and agricultural systems, and related industries. Students also toured laboratories and computer labs, where they saw the technologies, equipment, and hands-on learning spaces used by Kentucky State students.

By welcoming Dunbar SHPE students to campus, Kentucky State continued its commitment to expanding access to engineering education and helping build the next generation of STEM professionals.

The tour was organized by Dr. Paloma Pinillos of Kentucky State’s Office of Global Strategies and International Affairs, with participation from Dr. Buddhi Gyawali and funding through the National Science Foundation award Preparing the Pipeline of Next Generation STEM Professionals (Award Number/FAIN: HRD 2011917).