Gifts reflect support for program

Like other technology-hungry programs in the Kansas Technology Center, Pittsburg State University’s Wood Technology program depends on the support of companies across the U.S. and internationally to keep the latest equipment in its labs.

David Miles, associate professor for engineering technology, said that several recent donations reflect the respect that industry has for the Wood Technology Program at PSU.

“Our program is top notch and the industry believes so, too,” said Miles. “We receive tremendous industrial support, especially from the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America and Woodworking Machinery Industry Association, two major woodworking organizations.” The program has also been featured in “Wood Digest Magazine” and more recently in “Woodshop News.”

“These companies want to help the program but also know that our students are future consumers of their products,” Miles said, because graduates of the program often enter mid- to upper-level management positions in which they will have influence over the purchase of equipment.

Over the past year, in-kind gifts included a JumboErg 140 vacuum tube lifter, Dekker vacuum pumps, C.R. Onsrud 3 axis CNC router, an 8’ Buddy wood clamping system, a TigerStop programmable digital stop system and push feed system, and Franklin International adhesives – all valued at more than $45,000.

Manufacturers may make equipment available to the department as a loan, as a gift or as a purchase by discount from partnering companies.

For more information and a complete list of industry partners, contact Miles at 620-235-4942 or jmiles@pittstate.edu.

---Pitt State---