Andrews University to Host Industry Lab Summit

Andrews University will be hosting the Industry Lab Summit on Sept. 26, 2025, a free event dedicated to fostering collaboration between students, faculty and industry leaders. The summit will take place under the theme “Innovation through Industry-Academia Collaboration” in the Howard Performing Arts Center from 12–3 p.m. and is open to all interested attendees.

 

“At Andrews University, we are deeply committed to the success of our students and our community,” says Jorge Cardenas, Industry Lab coordinator. “This summit provides a unique opportunity to bridge academics and industry, inspiring innovation and opening doors to meaningful partnerships.”

 

The summit will provide multiple opportunities to network, along with free refreshments. Keynote presentations include “AI Latest Trends” by Ackley Will, chair and associate professor in Andrews University’s Department of Computing; “Product Development at the Andrews University School of Engineering” by Michael Mason, Industry Lab engineer-in-residence, and Gunnar Lovhoiden, chair and professor in Andrews University’s School of Engineering; and “Medical Device Development Collaboration Between HAPPE Spine and Notre Dame University” by Ryan Roeder, professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering at the University of Notre Dame.

 

The Industry Lab Summit is a product of Andrews University’s Industry Lab. The lab offers Andrews’ industry partners innovative programming, technology laboratories and tailored services from University students and faculty, fostering a culture of applied innovation. With the core values of integrity, innovation and collaboration, the lab’s mission is to deliver solutions that add value to external organizations by leveraging University resources.

 

The lab was officially launched by the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with the School of Engineering, during summer 2023 with foundational support from an Academic Partnership Grant awarded by the University. In fall 2024, the Industry Lab received a competitive grant from the National Science Foundation’s Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity program to expand its outreach and collaborative efforts. Through offerings like the Industry Lab Summit, the lab seeks to be a trusted partner in solution design for its clients, strengthening their position, supporting economic development and promoting industry opportunities.

 

“Andrews University is a globally recognized institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, and equipping students to make a lasting difference in their communities and industries,” says Matias Soto, director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship. “Through initiatives like the Industry Lab, Andrews continues to bridge education and enterprise, empowering the next generation of leaders and world changers.”

 

The Industry Lab Summit invites sponsors and partners seeking to engage with emerging talent and support innovation in engineering, technology and health care. Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking to build lasting brand presence and recruit from a diverse, values-driven student base. For sponsorship opportunities or to reserve a place at the summit, please visit this registration page.