The Lasting Value of Higher Education in Robotics

March 30, 2025 - 03:28

Robotic arms moved gracefully as Lackawanna College students Karim Vaquero and Luke Kotcho expertly entered commands on their remote controls. With each prompt, the robotic arms skillfully drew squares using a highlighter on a large sheet of paper, showcasing the practical applications of their studies. Vaquero, a resident of Carbondale, expressed optimism about the skills he is acquiring in the college's Robotics and Automation program. He believes that this education will significantly enhance his job prospects in a rapidly evolving industry.

Higher education leaders in the region emphasize the importance of degrees like Vaquero's, noting that specialized training in fields such as robotics not only equips students with technical knowledge but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. As the demand for skilled workers in technology-related fields continues to grow, programs that blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience are becoming increasingly valuable. Students like Vaquero are not just learning to operate machinery; they are preparing to be innovators in the workforce of tomorrow.