LIMEP, CEWIT and CEAS Hosts Robotics Listening Session to Strengthen Regional Manufacturing Collaboration

The Long Island Manufacturing Extension Partnership (LIMEP), in collaboration with the Center of Excellence in Wireless and Information Technology (CEWIT) and the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS) convened regional manufacturers, faculty, and economic development leaders for a Robotics Listening Session on March 10 at the Advanced Energy Research Technology Center (AERTC). The event focused on identifying opportunities to advance robotics and automation across Long Island's manufacturing sector.

Manufacturers from companies including Allen Machine Products, Allendale Machinery, B&B Precision Components, Persase, Thuro Metals, and Seascape participated in discussions alongside university researchers and leadership. The session explored current uses of automation, future technology needs, and opportunities for collaboration.

Facilitated by Karina Torres Castro and Nilanjan Chakraborty, the discussion centered on robotics adoption, workforce challenges, and applied research partnerships. Participants highlighted the growing role of automation in addressing labor shortages, improving efficiency, and reducing training time for new workers. "Our College of Engineering is committed to fostering stronger collaborations with industry. That starts at home, so we want Long Island companies to know that we are their partner, and together we can transform our regional industry into Long Island Industry 4.0." said Torres Castro to listening session participants.

Manufacturers shared examples of technologies already in use, including robotic material handling, machine monitoring systems, and data-driven quality control tools. Emerging areas of interest included AI-driven analytics, vision-based inspection, mobile robotics, and integrated systems that connect CNC machines with advanced automation platforms.

Participants also emphasized opportunities for collaboration with Stony Brook, particularly in applied research, student engagement, and workforce development. Many expressed interest in better understanding available university resources and expertise.

"Events like this listening session are essential because they allow us to hear directly from manufacturers about the challenges they are facing and the technologies they are eager to explore," said Amy Erickson, executive director of LIMEP. "By bringing together industry leaders and Stony Brook University experts, we can identify opportunities that strengthen both our workforce and innovation ecosystem."

Long Island's manufacturing sector - spanning aerospace, defense, biotech, and advanced materials - stands to benefit from deeper collaboration between industry and academia. The session reinforced a shared commitment to advancing partnerships in robotics, workforce development, and technology commercialization.