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McNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY

Institute for Industry – Education Collaboration

Institute for Industry – Education Collaboration (IIEC)

The Institute for Industry–Education Collaboration (IIEC) at McNeese State University was created to organize and expand university–industry partnerships that strengthen the regional economy and workforce. As McNeese’s liaison to industry, the IIEC connects companies with expert faculty, seasoned practitioners, and industry-grade facilities to deliver measurable training outcomes, technology transfer, and collaborative problem-solving.

The IIEC’s purpose is to enhance workforce skills and productivity while accelerating innovation: we develop customized programs, facilitate applied research and senior design projects, and open our hands-on labs for realistic training scenarios. Offerings include open-enrollment and company-specific courses (in-person and live-online) with CEUs/PDHs, plus guidance on grant-funded upskilling options that lower training costs for Louisiana employers.

Featured Programs

Explore special seminars and youth programs currently highlighted by the IIEC, then continue below to view our full portfolio of workforce, professional, and community learning offerings.

Henry Kister

Practical Distillation Technology
  • November 9–12, 2026
  • LNG Center of Excellence
    Lake Charles, Louisiana
  • Regular Registration: $2,499
  • Early Registration: $1,999 through July 31, 2026

Join internationally recognized distillation expert Henry Kister for a comprehensive program focused on improving distillation performance, troubleshooting operating problems, increasing capacity, and reducing operating costs.

  • Troubleshoot column performance and operating problems
  • Learn practical debottlenecking and optimization techniques
  • Evaluate existing designs and improve separation efficiency
  • Real-world case studies drawn from decades of industry experience
  • Optional Chemical and Refinery Distillation Workshops included at no additional cost

HeSummer Engineering Research Academy

Hands-On Engineering for High School Students
  • Session 1: June 15–19, 2026
  • Session 2: July 6–10, 2026

Students explore real engineering concepts through projects led by McNeese faculty using university labs and equipment.

  • Robotics, programming, concrete design & chemical engineering
  • Hands-on engineering labs
  • Projects guided by McNeese professors

Program Areas

In addition to featured events, the IIEC offers workforce training, continuing education, grant-supported employer solutions, and community enrichment opportunities throughout the year.

Industry Training

Technical & Safety Focused

Upcoming in-person and online technical training coursesOSHA-authorized classes, and COSS®/COSM® safety programs. Includes hands-on learning in McNeese’s industry-grade facilities and with nationally recognized industry experts such as Norman Lieberman and Henry Kister.

Facilities & Equipment

Hands-On Training

Train in McNeese’s hands-on labs: Hands-On Trainer (HOT)Glycol FractionationConfined Space Training VesselDeltaV, and dedicated classrooms for applied learning.

  • Realistic scenarios for operators & technicians
  • Cutaways and movable equipment available
  • Reserve space or request a turnkey program

Professional Development

Advance Your Career

In-person and online options designed for professionals seeking to upskill, advanced training, certifications, and continuing education credits toward license renewals.

Grants & Partnerships

Workforce Solutions

Grant-funded upskilling and collaborative solutions for employers.

  • IWTP (Incumbent Worker Training Program): guidance and application support
  • Workforce grant writing and administration
The IIEC has served as the primary training provider for:
  • Bessette Development Corporation
  • Bryan, Strange, Smith, Insurance Agency, Inc.
  • Firestone Polymers LLC
  • McElroy, Quirk, and Burch (A Professional Corporation)
  • Sasol USA Corporation
  • Southwest LA Small Business Consortium

Leisure Learning

Creativity & Enrichment

Explore in-person and online, no-pressure classes that spark creativity and personal growth. Options include arts, hobbies, wellness, photography, and technology basics.

  • Evening & weekend options with local instructors
  • Beginner-friendly, hands-on focus—no grades
  • Online classes in personal enrichment topics such as writing, fitness, and creative skills
McNeese State University logo with a cowboy on a horse and a large 'M'.

Contact

  • 337-562-4592
  • iiec@mcneese.edu
  • Seed Center 156
  • Monday - Thursday - 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Never miss another exciting continuing education opportunity. Follow McNeese Continuing Education on Facebook and Twitter and McNeese Leisure Learning on Facebook.

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Headshot of Anna Grace Bizzle

Anna Grace Bizzle

Ms. Anna Grace Bizzle is an Academic Advisor for the College of Nursing and Health Professions. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Secondary Education from Mississippi State University. Her favorite part of advising at McNeese is being a resource for students as they get used to the expectations of college and helping students pursue their degrees at such a wonderful school.

ADVISOR FOR:
  • College of Nursing and Health Professions