Donation to Technology Program Helps Prepare Next Generation

Mitutoyo America Corp. provided a Digimatic caliper and a micrometer to students pursuing degrees in the Engineering Technology Program at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois. Combining theoretical education with industry-based, hands-on opportunities, the technology program is preparing the next generation of engineers and technologists.

Matt Dye, president of Mitutoyo America Corp., says, “What a great opportunity you have here. You’re seeing a lot of the same equipment that’s being used on the shop floor today. Take it all in.” Mr. Dye shared that he was in a similar program in college and understanding how things get made correctly has provided him with many opportunities during his career.

Donald R. Peterson, Ph.D., dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology at NIU, adds, “Metrology is important, even for those in R&D. This class is essential in any type of engineering.”

Mitutoyo has a long-standing relationship with the university. In 2008, Mitutoyo established the Mitutoyo Metrology Laboratory on the NIU campus to provide hands-on, educational experience for technology and engineering undergraduate students. The laboratory has gage blocks and micrometers to coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), laser scanning micrometers and form measuring equipment.