AIɫɫ

AIɫɫ received a $1.5 million donation from Mission Conversion Services Alliance, a joint venture led by AtkinsRéalis with partners Westinghouse and Amentum. This $1.5 million donation from Mission Conversion Services Alliance provides the university with the funding needed for the full renovation and expansion of the center. 

“This amount of funding will allow us to complete the expansion of the Advanced Manufacturing Center,” said Adam Miller, Interim Dean of the College of Business and Engineering Technology. “It’s going to help build capacity to support more students going through these programs and prepare them for in demand careers but also support the manufacturing that is coming to the region.” 

The expansion will include new robotics and automation laboratories, creating a modern, industrial-style learning space that mirrors real-world manufacturing environments. Students will gain hands-on experience with robotics systems, automation technology, and advanced plastics equipment. 

“With donations and partnerships, we’re able to create more opportunities for our students,” said Miller. “We can develop world-class labs right here in Portsmouth, Ohio, where we can have robotics automation and all the other components of advanced manufacturing to be able to support industry, economic development and student outcomes in our region.” 

AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear company, is committed to building talent pipelines for industries like nuclear engineering and advanced manufacturing. 

“This partnership is more than a donation — it’s an investment in the next generation and a hands-on commitment to building their future,” said Jeff Kendall, president of AtkinsRéalis and Chairman of Mission Conversion Services Alliance. “Access to education can transform lives, communities and industries. By investing in AIɫɫ’s new engineering lab, we’re helping build a bridge between classroom and career and turning ambitions into opportunities. Through this donation— we’re proud to help shape a pipeline of talent that will power the future of nuclear engineering.” 

These new investments highlight the university’s commitment to preparing students for success in the world of advanced manufacturing.