As Texas A&M University–San Antonio expands its science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) offerings, it is also deepening partnerships with local industry to prepare students for in-demand careers.
In a recent collaboration, Toyota Motor North America, which operates a major manufacturing facility just a few miles from campus, gifted $25,000 to the University. The funds will support the development of a new state-of-the-art laboratory for the Electronic Systems Engineering Technology (ESET) program.
The ESET program prepares students for careers in manufacturing, avionics, medical electronics, energy industries, and infrastructure support services. Graduates often work as engineering technologists, technicians, and specialists in product development, manufacturing, and program management.
ESET is part of a growing portfolio of STEM programs at A&M–San Antonio. The Department of Computational, Engineering, and Mathematical Sciences offers degrees in computer science and cybersecurity, while the Department of Natural Sciences includes programs in biology, chemistry, and water resources science and technology.
The new ESET facility — a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) lab — is expected to be completed by fall 2027 inside the University’s Science and Technology building. The lab will provide hands-on training with equipment like industrial computers used to automate manufacturing and production processes, such as controlling machinery on factory assembly lines.
It’s the same type of technology used at the nearby Toyota plant, where trucks, SUVs, and components such as rear axles are manufactured. Toyota began production at the site in 2006 and is currently developing a 500,000-square-foot expansion expected to add more than 400 jobs.
Dr. Wael Deabes, associate professor and ESET program coordinator, said the University has a longstanding relationship with Toyota centered on workforce development and student career pathways. Over the years, Toyota has supported STEM scholarships and the University’s annual Dream Maker Scholarship Celebration.
Last year, Toyota representatives visited the campus to tour several labs in the College of Arts and Sciences.
“We talked about the importance of the ESET program and how we are working to bridge the gap between theory and practice,” Deabes said. “Our goal is to develop a pipeline of skilled workers and technicians who can fill in-demand jobs in industries like manufacturing. It was a great experience, and Toyota agreed to provide funds to help develop the new lab.”
Melinda Higgins Louden, Toyota’s manager of corporate communications, said the company saw strong alignment between the program and real-world workforce needs.
“We got really excited about the curriculum and saw the potential, especially when it comes to equipping students with skills for the real world,” Louden said. “This contribution is about elevating STEM in our community and helping prepare students for growing industries.”
Louden added that Toyota values its role as a community partner.
“We appreciate how A&M–San Antonio is preparing students for the future and giving back to the community,” she said. “We also strive to be a good corporate citizen, and being neighbors makes this partnership especially meaningful. We’re excited to explore additional opportunities together in the years ahead.”