SUNY Delhi Awarded $1.35 Million to Expand Robotics and Automation Education
The funding will support the development of new coursework and the purchase of equipment for a state-of-the-art Robotics and Automation Training Laboratory
Delhi, NY (11/13/2026) — SUNY Delhi has been awarded $1.35 million through the State University of New York (SUNY) Agritech Center initiative to advance robotics and automation education and prepare students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and industries supporting agriculture.
The funding is part of a $5 million investment announced by SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. to support high-tech research, education, and training opportunities at four SUNY campuses. The initiative is designed to support New York State's agricultural workforce and promote the use of emerging technologies in agriculture.
At SUNY Delhi, the funding will support the development of new coursework and the purchase of equipment for a state-of-the-art Robotics and Automation Training Laboratory, including industrial robotic arms and training cells, programmable logic controllers, electrical and motor-control trainers, conveyor and material-handling systems, sensors, and other advanced technologies.
"New York's agricultural economy depends on more than what happens on the farm. It also relies on skilled technicians who keep the increasingly sophisticated systems used in food and dairy processing, packaging, refrigeration, and distribution running," said SUNY Delhi President Mary Bonderoff. "This investment will build on SUNY Delhi's established strengths in Mechatronics and Electrical Controls by enhancing our curriculum, expanding hands-on training in robotics and automation, and creating opportunities to grow enrollment in these high-demand fields. By preparing students with the advanced technical skills needed to support agriculture and related industries, we can open doors to rewarding careers while meeting critical workforce needs in our region. We are grateful to Chancellor King, the SUNY Board of Trustees, and New York State for their continued investment in our students and communities."
Instruction and laboratory activities will incorporate applications relevant to automated packaging, conveying and material handling, temperature and environmental controls, refrigeration-related controls, warehousing, and other industrial and agricultural supply chain operations.
"The additional coursework will enhance our current curriculum and provide students with expanded exposure to robotics and automation, an important and growing component of advanced manufacturing and mechatronics," said SUNY Delhi Provost Dr. David Brower. "These skills are also essential to the industries that support agriculture, and this investment will help us prepare technicians to meet those needs."
The award adds to another major state investment in applied technology education at SUNY Delhi. In December 2025, the college announced a separate $32 million state investment to develop a new, 15,000-square-foot Applied Technology Facility, expected to open in 2030. The facility will provide additional instructional space and specialized equipment for mechatronics and other applied technology programs.
Together, these investments reinforce SUNY Delhi's position as a leader in applied technology education and its commitment to meeting New York State's evolving workforce needs. The college will also continue to pursue partnerships with employers to support curriculum development, internships, applied learning, workforce training, and employment opportunities.
The other campuses receiving funding are Alfred State College, SUNY Cobleskill, and SUNY Morrisville.
Media Attachments
The $1.35M funding will support the development of new coursework and the purchase of equipment for a state-of-the-art Robotics and Automation Training Laboratory