BCTC Partners with Toyota and University of Kentucky to Launch Fujio Cho Smart Manufacturing Summer
Published on Jun 18, 2026
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY – Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC), in partnership with Toyota Motor
North America Production Engineering and the University of Kentucky’s Fujio Cho Department
of Engineering Technology, is proud to announce the Fujio Cho Smart Manufacturing
Summer Academy, an immersive educational experience designed for middle and rising
high school students.
The one-week academy, running June 22 – 26, will introduce students in grades 6–8 to the world of advanced manufacturing through hands-on learning in robotics, automation, and digital production. Participants will engage directly with faculty from BCTC and the University of Kentucky, as well as professionals from Toyota, gaining insight into the skills and principles that drive modern industry.
The program emphasizes key concepts such as quality, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement, core elements of world-class manufacturing. Students will collaborate in teams to complete a capstone project, culminating in presentations to university and industry leaders.
The academy will take place across multiple locations, with students spending two days at the University of Kentucky Pigman College of Engineering and three days at Toyota’s PEMC facilities, providing a unique blend of real-world industry exposure and academic learning environments.
“This event is another step in our strong partnership and is an exciting opportunity to introduce younger students to the possibilities within engineering technology and manufacturing,” said Dr. Greg Feeney, Chancellor and CEO of Bluegrass Community and Technical College. “By working alongside our partners at Toyota and the University of Kentucky, we are helping students build early interest, confidence, and awareness of high-demand career pathways that are vital to our region’s future.”
Key program highlights include:
- Hands-on labs, team-based projects, and industry mentorship
- Collaboration with faculty, college students, and industry professionals
- Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies
- A final student showcase featuring project presentations
The Fujio Cho Smart Manufacturing Summer Academy reflects a shared commitment to workforce development and early student engagement, helping build a strong pipeline of future talent in engineering and advanced manufacturing fields.
More information can be found online at et.engr.uky.edu/summer-academy.
