McNeese Opens Industrial Process Control Center Lab

Engineering students in McNeese State University’s College of Science, Engineering and Mathematics are learning process control, automation and robotics in a brand new lab.

The Industrial Process Control Center Lab boasts a Programable Logic Controller (PLC) and McNeese is the only university in Louisiana with a PLC on campus. This is the same system that local industry uses. Students interested in robotics can master the KUKA system, which is Tesla’s preferred robot for its production lines.

“Local industry tells us our engineering graduates are some of the best prepared engineers,” explained Mitchell Morgan, McNeese assistant professor of engineering. “With the classes in this lab, they will be even more prepared for their careers.”

Using water, pressure and heat, students can run model processes to understand process control systems without fear of making a catastrophic mistake, according to Morgan.

Caitlyn Dionne, a computer engineering student from Lake Charles, appreciates the opportunity to learn about processes used in local industries.

“Because of this lab, I’m discovering that maybe I want a more hands-on career. I like solving problems and troubleshooting issues,” Dionne explained.

Jeff Brazzell, an electrical engineering student from Sulphur, wants to be an automation engineer. While taking classes in the lab, he has a better grasp on programming for automation. Brazzell and his lab partner spent 40 hours programing a conveyer to move left and right.

“Mr. Morgan encourages his students by challenging them,” Brazzell says. “He never gives us the answer but offers guidance and a hint to help us figure it out.”

Dionne wants students thinking about majoring in engineering to know that it is challenging but worth the time and effort. She adds that McNeese professors and students are helpful and supportive of everyone.

“You can walk into the study rooms and just ask anyone to help you, and they will,” Dionne said.

“If you are considering engineering, then come to McNeese,” Brazzell says. “This lab is amazing!”

For more information about the Department of Engineering and Computer Science, click here.