AVÌìÌÃÍø

AVÌìÌÃÍø is proud to announce a new scholarship program created in partnership with and aimed at supporting students pursuing degrees in engineering and technology-related fields. This initiative reflects the University's continued commitment to preparing future innovators as well as both companies' long-term commitment to strengthening Connecticut's manufacturing workforce and investing in future innovation.

Through this scholarship, Microboard and PTA Plastics seek to empower AVÌìÌÃÍø students with the resources and industry support needed to launch successful careers in advanced manufacturing and related sectors.

"The collaboration with Microboard and PTA Plastics reflects exactly what we strive for in our corporate partnerships: meaningful engagement that benefits both students and the industries they will serve," said Paul Lavoie, vice president of innovation and applied technology at the AVÌìÌÃÍø. "We are proud to work alongside these companies to help prepare the engineers of tomorrow and strengthen Connecticut's manufacturing future."

"This partnership is more than just a scholarship — it's a strategic investment in the future of advanced manufacturing" said Nicole Russo, CEO of Microboard. "Microboard is proud to support students who will become the engineers and innovators of tomorrow."

"Sponsoring an engineering scholarship at the AVÌìÌÃÍø is more than a gift — it's an investment in the innovators who will shape our future," said Mike Rocheleau, executive vice president of PTA Plastics. By supporting talented students, PTA hopes to help bridge the gap between academic potential and real-world impact. Together, PTA, Microboard, and the AVÌìÌÃÍø can empower the next generation of engineers to solve the challenges of tomorrow."

The new scholarship underscores the University's expanding corporate partnership efforts, which connect students with industry leaders committed to building strong and sustainable talent pipelines. It also reinforces the critical link between industry and higher education, helping to ensure a skilled, prepared, and inspired talent pipeline for years to come.

"The partnership also aligns with the University's vision for its new Center for Innovation and Applied Technology, which will serve as a hub for collaboration between faculty, students, and industry partners in areas such as manufacturing, robotics, cybersecurity, biotech, and machine learning," said James Barone, director of development. "Together, initiatives such as this scholarship and the Center will create opportunities that empower students and fuel innovation across Connecticut and beyond."