A new AI makerspace is set to revolutionize learning opportunities for engineering students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a project born from a strategic collaboration with Scott Data, a leading provider of data center services. This innovative space, aimed to open its doors at the onset of the fall 2025 semester, will be located within the College of Engineering’s renowned Design Hub. It promises to offer students a hands-on environment to explore, design, build, and test AI-driven projects, thereby enhancing their technical acumen and innovation capabilities.
AI Makerspace Overview
The AI makerspace is expected to serve as a vital resource for students, equipped with cutting-edge technology that includes eight NVIDIA H100 graphics processing units (GPUs). These GPUs are recognized as the gold standard for a wide range of artificial intelligence workloads, providing a robust platform for students to experiment and innovate. The makerspace is part of a larger initiative within Nebraska Engineering to bolster the use of AI across the campus, fostering academic and research collaborations that extend to external organizations.
According to Lance C. Pérez, the Fred Hunzeker Dean of Engineering, this initiative stands out as a significant advancement in the university’s long-standing tradition of engaging with AI. Since the mid-1980s, when the first course on artificial intelligence was introduced, the College of Engineering has cultivated an educational framework that is both progressive and responsive to industry needs. Over the past five years alone, more than 30 sections of AI courses have been delivered, showcasing the increasing importance of AI in engineering education.
Partnership with Scott Data
Scott Data’s CEO, Ken Moreano, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities through their partnership with the College of Engineering. With Scott Data being recognized as one of only around 20 Tier III certified colocation or multi-tenant data centers in the United States, this collaboration ispoised to leverage advanced computing capabilities to benefit students and researchers. Moreano stated that Scott Data stands out as the only Tier III data center offering an AI Cluster GPU-as-a-Service, which will significantly enhance the learning and research experience for engineering students.
The availability of a dedicated server featuring eight high-performance GPUs will empower students to conduct complex problem-solving, engage in innovative research, and unlock new levels of creativity in their projects. This kind of access to specialized technology typically found in industry or research settings reflects a deep commitment to preparing students for the increasingly tech-driven landscape of engineering and related fields.
Broader AI Initiative
The AI makerspace is just one component of a comprehensive AI initiative at Nebraska Engineering aimed at integrating artificial intelligence into the educational fabric of the university. This initiative will also include appointing a chief data scientist with extensive expertise in AI and engineering, as well as experience with startups. This strategic move is expected to enhance academic offerings, attract more students to the field, and elevate the overall research profile of the College of Engineering.
Moreover, Pérez highlighted the makerspace’s educational objectives of teaching ethical considerations surrounding AI usage. In addition to technical skills, students will have the opportunity to engage in discussions about the societal implications of AI technologies, fostering a well-rounded understanding that crosses disciplinary lines. The facility aims to be a hub for collaborative, interdisciplinary projects that can address real-world challenges through innovative applications of AI.
Impact on Workforce Development
The project carries substantial implications for workforce development within the state and beyond. As industries increasingly seek professionals who are adept in AI, it is critical that educational institutions like the University of Nebraska–Lincoln adapt their curricula to meet these demands. By partnering with a leading organization like Scott Data, Nebraska Engineering aims to ensure that its graduates are not only knowledgeable but also experienced in cutting-edge technologies that enhance their employability.
Pérez stated, “Ultimately, our primary goal is to expand our educational programs and research to ensure the next generation of the Nebraska workforce in engineering, computing, and construction is AI-ready.” This alignment between education and industry need positions graduates to thrive in a competitive job market increasingly influenced by AI and data analytics.
Community and Industry Engagement
The makerspace is not only set to benefit students but also aims to foster community engagement and partnerships with industry leaders. The collaboration is expected to create new pathways for external entities and organizations interested in leveraging AI for their operations, thus creating a symbiotic relationship between academia and the corporate world.
Involving community stakeholders can facilitate knowledge transfer and promote technological advancements that benefit local economies. By engaging with professionals from various sectors, students can gain valuable insights into industry challenges and expectations, further preparing them for successful careers in engineering and technology.
Conclusion
As Nebraska Engineering gears up to introduce its new AI makerspace in partnership with Scott Data, the initiative promises an exciting future for engineering students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. The combination of advanced technology, academic support, and industry collaboration creates a unique, fertile environment for innovation in artificial intelligence. Not only will students gain practical experience with state-of-the-art tools, but they will also develop the ethical and collaborative skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
As Scott Data and Nebraska Engineering continue to push the boundaries of educational excellence, the new AI makerspace represents a transformative step forward in equipping the next generation of engineers with the tools and knowledge to lead in an AI-driven world. Through this partnership, the university reinforces its commitment to providing a world-class education while addressing critical workforce needs in an era marked by rapid technological advancement.
