NICC creating powerful, new Industry 4.0 advanced manufacturing lab on campus

Thursday, February 20, 2025

The lab will provide a flexible, high-quality training environment where businesses can upskill their employees and build a stronger, more competitive workforce.

PEOSTA, Iowa–A new advanced manufacturing lab at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) currently under construction will provide students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies aligned with Industry 4.0 principles. 

By embracing Industry 4.0 and focusing on education and innovation, NICC is playing a vital role in keeping both the local workforce and the broader manufacturing sector competitive in a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

Industry 4.0, often referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, represents the integration of advanced technologies into manufacturing processes to create smarter, more efficient and interconnected systems. It builds on the advancements of earlier industrial revolutions but takes them to the next level with digital and data-driven innovations, according to Greg Moklestad, NICC dean of advanced manufacturing, industrial technology and computer science. 

“This new lab space on campus embraces key features of Industry 4.0, including smart manufacturing, data-driven decision-making, automation and robotics, customization and flexibility. By employing a competency-based education (CBE) model, the lab will allow the College to offer multiple training times to meet the needs of our students and local industry and integrate technologies for student learning at all stages of their experience. The lab will assist in the evolution of our local workforce by creating opportunities for workers to upskill and keep businesses competitive in a rapidly evolving market,” Moklestad said.

Lab construction is expected to be completed by the start of the fall 2025 semester.

“The upgrades to our Industrial Technology building represent a major investment in meeting the workforce needs of our business partners. By incorporating cutting-edge equipment and a competency-based education (CBE) model, we are ensuring that students gain the hands-on skills that local industries require. This lab will provide a flexible, high-quality training environment where businesses can upskill their employees and build a stronger, more competitive workforce,” stated NICC Vice President of Business and Community Solutions Amy Lasack.

This transformative construction project is funded through the State of Iowa Accelerated Career Education (ACE) Program. In November 2024, the NICC Board of Trustees awarded the project bid of $703,940 submitted by Foreman Construction, of Hiawatha, to bring this ambitious vision to life.