151: Building AI and Automation into Technical College Curriculums with Richard Barnhouse, President of WCTC (Waukesha County Technical College)

There’s no escaping AI and automation! But what’s the best way to integrate them into technical college curriculums and provide the next generation of manufacturing professionals with the education they need? Who better to answer that question than Richard Barnhouse, President of Waukesha County Technical College? Richard joins this episode of Manufacturing Happy Hour to share his insights, why he believes Wisconsin is the hub of higher ed transformation and why he strives to provide high-quality AI and automation programs and certificates. Plus, he gives advice on getting feedback from the community and tells us why 2023 is the “good old days” of hiring humans.  In this episode, find out: Richard’s roots in the industry Why he joined Waukesha County Technical College Why he believes industry has been organically evolving at an unbelievable pace The best ways to get feedback from the community How the Wisconsin technical college system can transform higher ed across the country Why it’s Richard’s role to keep manufacturing going in Wisconsin Why WCTC have created AI and automation programs Why 2023 is the ‘good old days’ of hiring humans Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It’s feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going! Tweetable Quotes: “If you're going to lead an organization that responds to the community, get out there, throw on some boots and get under a machine to see what the real needs are.” “We’re going to see higher education get better. It’s going to become more streamlined, more efficient. It will be forced to improve dramatically in order to stay in business.” “If there are demands for specific programs in our industry, then I’ve got a responsibility to deliver it.” Links & mentions: Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC), a public community college featuring forward-thinking programs in automation, AI, and systems integration Artisan 179, a trendy Pewaukee lakeside haunt filled with local art offering organic, select new American bites, and creative cocktails 5 O’clock Club, a storied tavern with a homestyle feel serving American classics, locally sourced produce, and drinks in Pewaukee, WI Follow Waukesha County Technical College on Twitter Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.