Posted on Thursday, May 28, 2026
Within its first year, LC’s Manufacturing Engineering Technology program is linking students directly with industry, taking them to the facilities of local manufacturers KIA, Hyundai-Transys and Weiler Forestry for an early and unfiltered look at three different manufacturing operations.
Dr. Laurinda MacKinnon, Assistant Professor of Manufacturing Engineering Technology and Program Coordinator, arranged the trips as part of her Introduction to Engineering course.
“We get an overview of the company and then opportunities are given for the students to ask questions of employees, some of which are LC alumni,” she noted.
For some, those conversations opened doors they did not know were there. For others, they affirmed a path already chosen. Either way, students gained a clearer vision for their futures, while companies gained a better sense of their future workforce.
That alignment is already producing results. One of the pre-engineering students who toured Hyundai-Transys is working there this summer, part of a growing internship pipeline that the program is building alongside regional manufacturers.
“This is helping students build both experience and confidence before they enter the workforce,” she added.
Dr. MacKinnon sees her graduates filling a specific role; one that connects engineering concepts and day-to-day manufacturing operations.
“They bridge the gap between knowing what is going on and understanding the theory, but they are going to make it happen on the floor,” she explained.
Freshman Logan Cammon arrived at LaGrange College already working in manufacturing. The trips did not alter his plan but instead reinforced it.
“I love being hands on and fixing things,” he reflected. “I have done it my whole life and enjoy the challenge of solving problems others cannot fix. These field trips have helped me be sure in my choice of Manufacturing Engineering because of meeting the people and being able to see the process.”
Under Dr. MacKinnon’s lead, the program is taking shape through collaboration with local industry partners. Students are finding their footing regional manufacturers are playing an active role in shaping its direction.
For a closer look at the program, watch our full interview with Dr. MacKinnon and her students.
Category: Community, Academics, Students
Keywords: Business, Industry
