Skip to main content

iFlex Lab

 

Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Automation

The Larry & Judy Garatoni Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Automation is the newest addition to Ivy Tech Community College’s Elkhart County location. This center will allow Ivy Tech to offer training to local manufacturers and those seeking a career in advanced manufacturing with the following pathways: Mechatronics, Automation/Robotics, Industrial Maintenance, CAD Design, Information Technology, Quality/Lean/Continuous Improvement, and Logistics/Supply Chain. The space will also allow Ivy Tech to evolve over the coming years to keep pace with changing technologies, particularly as Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things expands nationally, regionally, and locally. 

 

This new training facility is funded by several generous entities and individuals including the Elkhart County Council, the Elkhart County Redevelopment Commission, the Elkhart County Commissioners, the Labs for Industry Futures and Transformation (LIFT) Network, Larry and Judy Garatoni, the Lung family, and the many friends of Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart.

 

 

Training for Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is rapidly transforming the workplace. As companies increase their use of networks and internet technology, they are able to reduce downtime, increase quality and productivity, and make workplaces safer for everyone. These advanced systems require new skills from a multitude of areas, including knowledge of software, data, networks, and smart devices. 

 

The Smart Manufacturing and Digital Integration (SMDI) programs train students for the future of Industry 4.0 and beyond. These programs are designed to provide lifetime employment and ensure Indiana's economic competitiveness within this field while staying relevant with the latest technology.

 

 

Smart Manufacturing and Digital Integration (SMDI)

The iFlex lab will be the primary location for the Smart Manufacturing and Digital Integration (SMDI) program. This program offers three pathways: Associate of Applied Science degree, a certificate, and a technical certificate. Embedded in each pathway are credentials from the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA). 

 

The required coursework for each pathway is below. You can also learn more at IvyTech.edu/SMDI.

 

Skills for the Future

The non-profit organization WorkingNation has created a great 16 minute documentary demonstrating the need for advanced manufacturing skills in Indiana. You can watch it here.

Thank you

The new training facility is funded by several generous entities and individuals.  The Elkhart County Council, the Elkhart County Redevelopment Commission and Elkhart County Commissioners approved a draw of $1.47 million from the tax increment financing fund of County Road 6 and 17.  Also, a $1 million grant was awarded to Ivy Tech from the Labs for Industry Futures and Transformation (LIFT) Network, a partnership led by the University of Notre Dame and the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership, which is funded by a $42.4 million Lilly Endowment Inc. grant.  Additionally, the Campus is grateful for the many friends of Ivy Tech who donated to the project.