The Education Meets Industry (EMI) Symposium debuts on Monday, July 15th in Dayton, Ohio, alongside the Laser Additive Manufacturing (LAM) Workshop on July 15 - 17, 2024, with this community's first visit to the city. The Symposium is kicked off by Dr. Larry R. Dosser (LIA Fellow) and promises insights into historical context, current workforce demands, and future trends in defense and industry. Speakers from Resonetics, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and educational institutions like the Dayton Regional STEM School’s (DRSS) Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Photonics (CAMP) and Clark State College will provide diverse perspectives.

EMI focuses on laser materials processing and additive manufacturing, highlighting the increasing need for skilled technicians with interdisciplinary expertise. Presentations advocate a return to fundamentals, emphasizing the importance of mastering basics like laser material interaction. Dayton's integration of DRSS-CAMP with Clark State College's Laser Material Processing Pathway ensures students access state-of-the-art equipment, preparing them for industry demands. This collaboration represents a significant step in bridging the gap between education and industry, fostering a new generation of adaptable manufacturing professionals.