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LSSU professor to be honored for shaping future of robotics and automation.Jim Devaprasad, a professor at Lake Superior State University, has been named the 2026 Educator of the Year by the Association for Advancing Automation.The award will be presented on June 23, 2026, at the annual Automate 2026 Robotics and Automation Show/Conference in Chicago.Devaprasad is being recognized for his significant contributions to preparing students for careers in robotics and automation over nearly 40 years.A3, North America’s largest automation trade association, represents more than 1,450 companies, businesses and educational institutions involved in robotics, machine vision, motion control and related technologies.Devaprasad was selected for his “leadership in robotics and automation education, deep industry engagement, and success preparing students to thrive in real-world automation careers,” according to A3.Devaprasad, who serves as director of the Center for Advanced Robotics Engineering at LSSU’s School of Engineering and Technology, has dedicated nearly 40 years to expanding and evolving the university’s robotics and automation programs.His work began with the nation’s first ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering Technology, later growing to include robotics concentrations and culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering, one of only a handful of nationally accredited programs of its kind nationwide.Kimberly Muller, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Lake Superior State University, noted the consistent commitment under Devaprasad’s leadership.“Over the years, the names of LSSU’s robotics programs and concentrations have evolved alongside rapid changes in the industry,” Muller said.“What has remained constant through Jim’s leadership is a commitment to hands-on learning, problem-solving, and leadership development that prepares graduates to adapt to emerging technologies while connecting them to a strong and growing professional network in the robotics field.” Beyond his classroom instruction, Devaprasad’s influence is evident in the resources he has helped secure for LSSU.Through strong partnerships with alumni and industry leaders, he has helped obtain more than $3 million in robotics and automation equipment and over $2 million in grants to support engineering education, ensuring LSSU students have access to experiences that reflect current workplace environments.Scot Lindemann, a 1989 LSSU alumnus in Automated Systems Engineering Technology, chief executive officer of Mission Design & Automation, and a member of A3’s Robotics Technology Strategy Board, praised Devaprasad’s impact.“Jim has led the education and development of so many robotics industry leaders,” Lindemann said.“The program at LSSU has been leading the top robotics education ideas for 30 years.” Industry partners also acknowledge Devaprasad’s broader contributions to the field.Lou Finazzo, vice president at FANUC America Corporation, expressed his admiration.“Jim has left a lasting impression on countless students and colleagues, inspiring everyone around him through his dedication,” Finazzo said.“Jim has truly earned this award, and his efforts continue to elevate LSSU’s reputation for producing the best prepared candidates.FANUC America and LSSU Engineering continue to collaborate on the needs of the industry through Jim’s innovative approaches to educating.Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.” As part of the recognition, Devaprasad and LSSU will receive support from the Siemens Cooperates with Education program.This support includes technology resources designed to expand hands-on learning opportunities for students in robotics and automation.Devaprasad, reflecting on his career, expressed pride in his former students.“I am proud of the impact our alumni have made and thankful to the LSSU School of Engineering and Technology for its commitment to applied engineering - and it has been rewarding to be part it,” Devaprasad said.“As robotics and automation continue to shape industry, it has been an honor to help prepare future engineering leaders.