Volkswagen Donates FANUC Industrial Robots to Smart Factory Institute to Enhance Workforce Training
- Jessica Duffield
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
The Smart Factory Institute is proud to announce a generous donation of FANUC industrial robots from Volkswagen, which will be utilized to train workers in safe operation, programming, and troubleshooting. This initiative underscores Volkswagen’s long-standing commitment to supporting workforce development and innovation in manufacturing.
Since the establishment of the United States Smart Factory Institute in October 2021, Volkswagen has been a pivotal supporter, contributing to the mission of bridging the skills gap for manufacturing workers. Located inside the PIE Center in Cleveland, Tennessee, the Smart Factory Institute is part of a global network with the Deutsche Messe Technology Academy in Hanover, Germany. It serves as a vital resource and innovation hub for all sectors of general industry—equipping the workforce with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to keep pace with rapid technological advancement.
The Smart Factory Institute has issued over 4,000 micro-credentialing badges and nearly 2,000 certificates to date. The addition of the FANUC industrial robots will deepen the scope of its training programs by providing hands-on experience with real-world robotics applications. These robots will be integrated into various workforce development courses, including advanced manufacturing, automation, and mechatronics, preparing workers for high-demand roles in modern production environments.
“Volkswagen’s donation is a game-changer for the Smart Factory Institute and the workers we serve,” said Denise Hall, CEO of the Smart Factory Institute. “These robots will provide invaluable training experiences that help the workforce adapt to the evolving landscape of manufacturing.”
The Smart Factory Institute’s state-registered apprenticeship program will also benefit from this donation. Offered directly through the Institute, this earn-and-learn program provides apprentices with paid, hands-on experience while completing classroom instruction and certifications tailored to the needs of local manufacturers. The FANUC robots will become a key component of the program’s technical training, giving participants access to cutting-edge robotics and automation skills that are essential in today’s advanced manufacturing environment.
Representative Dan Howell, who has been instrumental in securing funding for the Smart Factory Institute, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “The Smart Factory Institute is very important in the role of workforce development, not only here in Bradley and Hamilton Counties but to industries across the state. Their expertise is outstanding, and we are fortunate that the institute is based here in Bradley County at the PIE Center,” said Howell.
As part of this initiative, a mechanical engineering student from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) had been appointed as the project manager responsible for leading the robot integration. This opportunity provides the student with real-world project management experience while contributing to the expansion of training capabilities at the Institute. The collaboration reflects the Smart Factory Institute’s strong partnership with regional academic institutions and its commitment to developing the next generation of engineering and technical leaders.
Senator Adam Lowe also emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “Volkswagen understands the importance of workplace readiness and the value of key partners like Peak Performance and The Smart Factory in maintaining that readiness. Tennessee has the most capable and hard-working citizens in the nation, and they deserve all the support to build the competencies. They need to make both our businesses and community is great. Thank you to Volkswagen for being such a great partner in that endeavor.”
Through partnerships like this one, the Smart Factory Institute remains committed to shaping the future of workforce development in the Southeast and beyond. As industries continue to evolve, the Institute will remain at the forefront—empowering people, advancing innovation, and building resilient talent pipelines.
About Smart Factory Institute
The Smart Factory Institute is dedicated to bridging the skills gap in manufacturing by providing training in technical skills and advanced manufacturing methodologies. Located in the PIE Center in Cleveland, Tennessee, the Institute supports general industry through a variety of educational programs and resources.
About Volkswagen
Volkswagen is a leading global automotive manufacturer committed to innovation, sustainability, and workforce development. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, Volkswagen aims to drive progress in the automotive industry and beyond.
For more information about the Smart Factory Institute, please visit www.smartfactoryinstitute.com
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