As 3D printing becomes increasingly common in education, industry, and manufacturing, one important question remains: What happens to the plastic waste?

Students in Western Carolina University’s ENGR 493 course, “AI and Computer Vision for Smart Manufacturing,” gained hands-on experience at the intersection of artificial intelligence and robotics—preparing them for careers in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape. 

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“Our discussion evolved from the idea of building a child-sized playhouse courtroom to building a virtual courtroom,” said Crystal Jones, executive director of AWAKE Children’s Advocacy Center.

Advanced semiconductor testing equipment at Western Carolina University is providing students with hands-on experiences and opportunities to explore the high-demand field of semiconductor technology. 

Dr. Martin Tanaka, a professor in the WCU College of Engineering and Technology and director of the mechanical engineering program, received $1 million of funding from NCInnovation to develop an innovative device to treat lymphedema. Learn more about what led him to engineering, to WCU, and to biomedical engineering research in this Q&A.