University of Bridgeport (UB) is excited to launch two groundbreaking facilities set to position the school as a regional leader in experiential learning and innovation in the STEM fields. On Friday, October 3, 2025, UB welcomed state representatives, community partners, students, faculty, and guests to campus to celebrate the grand opening of the New England First Robotics hub and the Interdisciplinary Emerging Technologies (IET) Laboratory.
The celebration began with a tour of the robotics hub, located in the Steans Manufacturing Center in Mandeville Hall, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the IET lab in UB’s School of Engineering. Together, these spaces represent UB’s deep commitment to preparing students for success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through investments in opportunities for hands-on learning and industry partnerships that expose K-12 students to higher education from an early age.
Inspiring Future Innovators
Developed in partnership with Access Educational Services and NE FIRST, the robotics hub provides a dedicated space where local high school students collaborate with UB undergraduate and graduate engineering students to design, build, and program industrial-sized robots for regional competitions.
“We’re excited to have a home here,” said Gwen Brantley, founder and executive director of ACCESS Educational Services.” She continued, “UB is allowing us to grow.” Brantley added that UB faculty, staff, and students will mentor high school robotics teams in this new community STEM Hub in Bridgeport. UB President Wilken shared, “Together, UB and NE FIRST are building an innovation, manufacturing, and robotics ecosystem — one that inspires today’s youth to explore careers in STEM and strengthens Connecticut’s future workforce.”
Advancing Hands-On STEM Learning
Immediately following the robotics hub tour, UB hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Interdisciplinary Emerging Technologies (IET) Lab. This innovative space features a collection of advanced equipment integrated with AI technology that can’t be found at any other college in the Northeast. The lab brings together cutting-edge tools for research, design, and prototyping in artificial intelligence, smart manufacturing, 3D printing, Internet of Things (IoT), and cybersecurity, fostering collaboration among students and faculty from multiple disciplines while serving as a center for creativity and technological advancement.
Opening remarks were given by Pepper, a humanoid social robot who serves as the IET Lab’s resident ambassador, welcoming guests and introducing the lab.
Invited to speak by President Wilken, Michael Banton, executive director of New England FIRST, expressed that the IET Lab and UB partnership as “an exciting entryway for our students into higher education.”
Congressman Jim Himes noted the lab’s potential for economic growth, saying, “It’s remarkable how many jobs will be available to people who understand AI and its effects on robotics.” Thanking UB’s visionary leadership, he added, “The revitalization of UB has been a spectacular thing.”
Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim expressed his appreciation for the cutting-edge development happening at UB, noting that the partnership with NE FIRST highlights the opportunities being created right in Bridgeport.
The event brought together educators, students, business leaders, and community members who share a vision for a stronger, more innovative Bridgeport. Guests heard additional remarks from:
- State Senator Heron Gaston, UB’s Vice President of External Affairs and Chief of Staff
- State Representative Antonia Felipe, UB’s Manager of Community Partnerships
- State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey
- Khaled Elleithy, Ph.D., Dean of UB’s School of Engineering, Business, and Education
For more information about University of Bridgeport, visit bridgeport.edu/IET
With over 14 years of experience in writing and communications, Abby Levandoski is a seasoned storyteller specializing in highlighting stories that build community. As the communications manager for University of Bridgeport, Abby produces compelling narratives highlighting academic programs, research initiatives, and student success. Her work has earned positive media coverage across print, digital, and TV platforms. Abby holds a master’s degree in education and a bachelor’s degree in political science, bringing a strategic and creative approach to her role in higher education marketing and communications.