Digital News & Updates

June 2025 | Issue 2

Share Your Organization's News With NCATC Members Today

The NCATC Board of Directors have made some important changes to the modes, frequency, and formats of communications and outreach to our members this year.


They include:


  • DIgital News - New Monthly Briefs Format
  • Innovation Exchange - Partner Webinars+
  • Deeper Member Engagement
  • Member News - Online Submission Form

AUTOMATE 2025: EDUCATOR DAY May 14th - Detroit, MI

Thanks to Ritch Ramey, Director of Education at the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) we had a great group of panelist at the Automate Show 2025 Educator Day. J. Craig McAtee, NCATC leading the panel. The panel included Sarah Jones of RECF, Paul Aiello of FANUC America, Lisa Masciantonio of the ARM Institute, and Carrie Giles of ACTE.

NCATC Executive Director & CEO Message

Generative AI in Higher Education: The Key to Continued Relevance and Growth


In an educational era driven by rapid technological evolution, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has emerged as a transformative force reshaping how universities teach, learn, and innovate. Far beyond a passing fad, GenAI is proving essential for higher education institutions striving to maintain relevance, boost student outcomes, and prepare graduates for an AI-augmented workforce.


Generative AI is no longer optional—it’s foundational. Institutions that embrace this technology strategically will enhance their impact, enrich student learning, and preserve their relevance in a world where AI fluency equals the premium currency of tomorrow’s professions.


To stagnate is to fall behind; to innovate with GenAI is to lead.

Lamar Institute of Technology unveils $6.6M Advanced Technology Center to address workforce needs

"The new Advanced Technology Center is ready for the ribbon cutting. The center wouldn’t be complete without the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC) shingle hanging right beside the building plaque. I’ve had the privilege of being associated with that group for going on 18 years now. I learned more about ATCs from that great group of people than I would’ve ever known otherwise."

- Dr. Sidney E. Valentine, LIT President

BEAUMONT, Texas — The Lamar Institute of Technology celebrated the grand opening of its new Advanced Technology Center on Monday, a $6.6 million facility aimed at equipping students with hands-on training to meet the demands of Southeast Texas’ industrial workforce.


The 15,000 square-foot building was funded in part by the 88th Texas Legislature and higher education funds. Officials say the center was developed in direct response to requests from both local industries and students seeking specialized training.

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