Clemson University and Omron Automation Open New ARC Lab
Celebrating a New Era of Learning
Clemson University and Omron Automation opened the new Automation, Robotics, and Cyber (ARC) Laboratory on September 24.
Faculty, students, and industry leaders gathered in Riggs Hall for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The event marked a milestone in connecting academic research with industrial innovation.
State-of-the-Art Industrial Technology
The ARC Lab features advanced automation hardware and software donated by Omron Automation and Omron Foundation.
Students will train on the same systems used in factories worldwide.
From semiconductor plants to automotive and pharmaceutical production, the technology represents real-world industrial control.
The lab bridges classroom learning with hands-on automation experience.
Building Skills for Industry 4.0
Clemson plans to integrate the ARC Lab into its electrical and computer engineering curriculum.
Students will begin working with these systems as early as their sophomore year.
The lab helps future engineers connect digital intelligence with physical systems.
It empowers students to design, test, and optimize industrial processes using real production tools.
Investing in the Next Generation
Omron Automation views the partnership as a long-term investment in future innovators.
“Our industry needs graduates ready to lead from day one,” said Robb Black, CEO of Omron Automation Americas.
He added that Omron’s support helps build a talent pipeline prepared for Industry 4.0.
Clemson’s Hassan Raza and Omron’s Thomas Kuckhoff worked closely to design the lab’s equipment setup.
Their collaboration ensures lasting value for students and the engineering community.
Strengthening University–Industry Collaboration
Clemson Provost Robert Jones called the ARC Lab a symbol of “Clemson Elevate in action.”
He emphasized experiential learning as key to creating the nation’s top student experience.
“This lab gives students the confidence to work with professional-grade tools,” he said.
Omron Foundation also launched the Omron Automation Scholarship Endowment to support engineering students.
The initiative strengthens Clemson’s commitment to hands-on education and industry engagement.