BGSU state-of-the-art engineering technology and innovative partnerships grab attention of international transfer student

Ayman Elsherbiny is using the University’s most advanced robotics equipment to solve industrial problems

As a student at Yildiz Technical University in Turkey, Ayman Elsherbiny began looking at universities in the United States that would provide him with the best opportunity for a career in robotics engineering. His search led him to Bowling Green State University.

"Bowling Green State University offered strong electrical, mechanical and robotic engineering programs, experiential learning opportunities and the right equipment for me to be successful," said Elsherbiny.

Upon enrolling in the mechatronics engineering technology program at BGSU, now known as robotics engineering, Elsherbiny gained access to various facilities and state-of-the-art equipment, providing essential hands-on learning opportunities. As a student, he now had access to a computer-aided design lab offering 30 workstations, a robotics training lab with nearly a dozen industrial robots with integrated and automated control systems and the advanced robotics and technology research (ART) lab.

"Mechatronics engineering relies heavily on integrating electrical, mechanical, computer and network components," said Elsherbiny. "BGSU offers strong engineering programs that put state-of-the-art technology into your hands as a student."

Now in his senior year, Elsherbiny is gaining hands-on experience with the University’s most advanced robotics system, an experience that will directly transfer to his future engineering career.

“I am using state-of-the-art technology that is not commonly found at all institutions,” he said. “I am gaining hands-on learning and experience with advanced robotics that I will take into the workforce.”

After spending countless hours gaining hands-on experience in the classroom, Elsherbiny took advantage of the University’s innovative partnerships and secured a co-op at First Solar, Inc., a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic solar solutions.

Elsherbiny’s success story is one of many Dr. Sonia Chacko, assistant professor of robotics engineering, has seen within her department. As the faculty mentor for student capstone projects, she is excited to see Elsherbiny and others succeed.

"We are helping to bridge the gap between academia and industry by providing students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge robotics technologies and integrating industry-relevant tools and practices into our curriculum," said Chacko. "BGSU is working to fill in-demand jobs and our students are receiving experiential learning that prepares them to use the same equipment they will in the workforce. Ayman has worked very hard to be where he is today, and we are proud to see him paving a path in the world of robotics and automation.”

Leveraging his hands-on experience with robotics and BGSU education in mechatronics, Elsherbiny easily adapted to manufacturing engineering during his first of two co-ops at First Solar, a bronze tier partner in the BGSU Corporate Recognition Program. During his internships, he developed an idea for his senior capstone project, using advanced robotics at BGSU — the Clearpath Ridgeback Mobile Robot — to solve industrial needs while applying his expertise in mechatronics.

"Alongside the various physical and simulated industrial robots offered in the program, BGSU is one of only a few institutions I found to have a mobile robot of this caliber," Elsherbiny said. "I addressed a real-world problem using the equipment and education I received at BGSU."

By integrating cutting-edge technologies like autonomous mapping, navigation, sensor fusion and real-time control, Elsherbiny had the fully autonomous robot seek out hazardous material, pick it up and properly dispose of it. While he had First Solar in mind when working on his project, Elsherbiny said the robot could be used in various manufacturing or medical industries.

"By automating the process, I hope to create a solution that not only improves workplace safety but also demonstrates how robotics can tackle some of the toughest challenges in industrial environments," he said. "This project isn't about controlling a robot; it's about imagining a future where technology can take over dangerous tasks, allowing people to focus on safer and more meaningful work."