Robotics Industry Soars in This Georgia City

Nathan Lambrecht

Greater Columbus, GA, is quickly emerging as a hub for the robotics industry, driven by advancements in military research, manufacturing automation and a growing talent pipeline. The robotics industry in Columbus is thriving, thanks to places like Fort Moore’s Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCoE), where research and development efforts focus on cutting-edge robotics for military applications. In the private sector, companies such as Pratt & Whitney are embracing robotics and industrial automation to streamline manufacturing processes. 

To support this growth and keep skilled talent flowing, local colleges and universities, including Columbus State University (CSU), offer specialized programs in robotics engineering, electronics and automotive manufacturing. 

Battle-Ready Robotics in Columbus 

Located at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), MCoE plays a pivotal role in equipping the U.S. Army with cutting-edge robotic technologies, such as drones designed to enhance operational effectiveness and safety on the battlefield. For example, the center is developing robotic systems for reconnaissance, logistics and combat support that can automate dangerous tasks and enhance mission capabilities in complex environments. The goal of these systems is not to replace human combat but to complement it, according to a Fort Moore spokesperson, who says: 

“Fort Moore focuses on the development of maneuver requirements to inform research and development for Army programs. We are heavily involved in experimentation to advance the integration of robotics into soldier maneuver operations with the goals of enhancing soldier capabilities, reducing risks and exploring how robotics can be used effectively in battlefield environments.” 

“Our efforts are centered on learning how robotics can support soldier maneuvers, whether by performing tasks that reduce exposure to danger or by creating new opportunities for human-robot collaboration. We are continually seeking to progress in the integration of human-robot teams, allowing us to better support the broader military goals of improving operational effectiveness and enhancing soldier safety.” 

Growth Engine 

In the private sector, companies are employing robotics in their manufacturing plants to increase productivity. 

Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX, the world’s largest aerospace and defense company, operates two facilities in Columbus that maintain airplane engines and manufacture compressor airfoils, and nickel and titanium forgings for military and commercial aircraft engines. 

Advanced robotic systems are integrated into various stages of the production process, from handling and assembly to inspection and quality control, allowing the company to innovate, remain competitive and grow its footprint in the Columbus region. In fact, in 2023, the company announced a $206 million expansion that will bring 400 new jobs to the area. 

“We remain committed to supporting manufacturing jobs in Georgia and see an incredible opportunity to expand our workforce and our company’s capabilities in Columbus, aligned with our Industry 4.0 strategy,” says Shane Eddy, president of Pratt & Whitney. “This investment will help ensure that we have the infrastructure, machinery and equipment upgrades in place to provide the best products and services to our customers worldwide.”

Critical to the region’s growth and innovation around robotics is the availability of a workforce skilled in robotics, thanks in large part to CSU and its programs.

The university was the first in Georgia to offer a master’s level robotics engineering degree.

Nathan Lambrecht

Engineering Tomorrow’s Leaders 

“As the job market continues to evolve, the demand for robotics expertise grows, making upskilling essential for success in an increasingly automated world. Robotics is at the forefront of technology, and engineering requires visionaries – creative thinkers and bold innovators – ready to tackle the challenges of the future” says Mahmut Reyhanoglu, director and professor of robotics engineering at CSU.

By acquiring robotics skills, students in robotics engineering show their ability to learn and work with advanced technologies, making them versatile and adaptable employees, he says. 

CSU’s robotics engineering program integrates robotics through hands-on activities, coding and interdisciplinary approaches that encourage creativity and critical thinking. The program also provides numerous opportunities for students to gain valuable work-based experience through one-on-one training, research, internships and apprenticeships with CSU partners.

Reyhanoglu says the university maintains a strong relationship with local and regional businesses, including Pratt & Whitney and Kia, as well as with Fort Moore, which helped develop the university’s bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in robotics engineering.

Recently, CSU partnered with Fort Moore’s Maneuver Battle Lab (MBL), a part of the MCoE, to offer artificial intelligence and robotics training to students, community members and service members at the lab.

“CSU’s robotics engineering program will identify, prototype and demonstrate innovative material solutions, including software that could eventually inform Army robotic needs,” Reyhanoglu says. “The desired outcome of the colocation of the CSU program and the MBL is to create an informal robotic ecosystem that spurs innovation.”