This partnership with GEODIS, a world leader in transport and logistics, brings higher education and industry together for teaching, workforce training and research. The purpose is to create convenient new opportunities for post-secondary education and, for people currently in the workforce, enhance skills and credentialing, the university said in a news release.

It is expected that early next year, there will be a mini-prototype of a warehouse using robotics ready for student tours, research and teaching. “I’m here to say, this is just the beginning,” ISU President Deborah J. Curtis said. “We’re very excited.”