Manufacturing Jobs Expanding near Raleigh, NC
Improved Nature, LLC has announced plans to open a new manufacturing operation in the town of Garner, just outside Raleigh, North Carolina. A $3 million facility, it will produce proprietary, vegetable-based meat-substitute products – as well as 165 new jobs by 2018.
Improved Nature meat replacement products emulate the texture, flavor, and sensory experience of meat using plant-based ingredients. According to Improved Nature’s website, it creates meat alternatives in an effort to have a positive effect on the environment and health.
Such an innovative product also requires an equally innovative production facility. Like any manufactured item these days, food and packaging utilizes advanced automation systems and robotics to minimize costs and maximize efficiency. Moreover, since there is a greater chance of contamination when humans handle food, automated machinery also enhances food safety. Other benefits include:
- Improved Consistency – automation reduces waste and increases overall yield because actions like cutting are more consistent. According to Food Logistics, manufacturers can improve yield by 3 percent because precise cuts delineate between sellable and contaminated meat. What’s more, food manufacturers must maintain strict adherence to labeling requirements. Only automated systems are capable of maintaining consistency when it comes to calorie counts, fat content, etc.
- Improved Quality – Robots can work in harsh environments. Food quality is enhanced when it’s handled in freezing temperatures and lower-oxygen environments.
- Improved Worker Safety – Allowing programmable machines to control sharp or high-powered instruments protects workers from injury.
- Added Functionality – Automated systems can more precisely count and track product.
It almost goes without saying that the people who work in these plants require special training and education. They must be able to program the systems, as well as maintain and troubleshoot all of the advanced machinery. Fortunately, companies like Improved Nature can look to ECPI University for qualified employees.
ECPI University and its Raleigh campus offer program in Electronics Engineering Technology (EET) and Mechatronics. Graduates from our EET program are exposed to coursework that can teach them how to:
- Use testing and measuring instruments to acquire data, analyze problems, and design a system or process
- Analyze and implement systems containing hardware and software components
- Manage engineering technology projects
Like EET students, Mechatronics students also learn about digital electronics, as well as data acquisition and control systems. In addition, they learn about the two other components of advanced manufacturing: computer and information systems and mechanical engineering technology – such as hydraulics and pneumatics.
It’s a fascinating career and the best part is that you don’t have to spend four years in college to get started. By enrolling in ECPI University’s accelerated, year-round program, you can earn your Bachelor of Science degree in just 2.5 years. Want to learn more? Contact ECPI University today to chat, email, or talk directly to a helpful admissions advisor.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Electronics Engineering Technology - Bachelor’s
Gainful Employment Information – Mechatronics - Bachelor’s
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