ICAMS honored with Center of Excellence Award
Published: Oct 27, 2025 1:45 PM
By Carla Nelson
Auburn University’s Interdisciplinary Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems (ICAMS) has been named the 2025 recipient of the Center of Excellence Award by the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. The award recognizes a research center that exemplifies excellence in research, engagement and impact, honoring contributions that advance knowledge, collaboration, and strengthen the college’s role as a leader in engineering innovation.
The award was presented last month during the college’s Engineering Research Awards banquet.
ICAMS, directed by Greg Harris, was recognized for its leadership in helping small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt advanced technologies and integrate Industry 4.0 systems. Established in 2020 as a public-private partnership among Auburn University, the City of Auburn and the U.S. Department of Defense, the center has become a key resource for manufacturers across the Southeast and the nation.
“What sets our researchers apart is their ability to bridge the gap between breakthrough science and meaningful impact,” said Allan David, associate dean for research. “They're not content with theoretical advances alone. They're determined to create technologies that genuinely improve how we live and work.
“By celebrating these achievements, the college highlights the excellence, impact and spirit of discovery that define its mission and strengthen its role as a leader in engineering research,” he added.
Since its inception, ICAMS has secured nearly $49 million in research funding, including more than $34 million in active projects, supporting groundbreaking work in digital twins, sensing, analytics and artificial intelligence for advanced manufacturing systems. The center’s researchers have published more than 30 peer-reviewed papers, produced 13 technical reports, some used in U.S. congressional testimony, and earned multiple patents for innovative manufacturing solutions.
Beyond research, ICAMS has impacted industry engagement and workforce development. The center has demonstrated digital manufacturing technologies to more than 1,500 industry professionals and collaborated with 24 companies, helping manufacturers modernize operations, improve productivity and build resilience in supply chains.
The center also plays a vital role in education, offering interactive learning experiences for Auburn University students and outreach programs for K-12 learners. Through initiatives like the ICAMS Mechatronics Scholarship and Internship Program, more than 40 students have earned industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience. ICAMS’ Bird, Inc.
outreach program has introduced more than 3,600 middle school students to the possibilities of careers in manufacturing and STEM.
“This recognition reflects the incredible teamwork, innovation and dedication of our faculty, students and partners,” said Harris. “ICAMS is committed to advancing manufacturing in ways that strengthen communities, empower students, and drive the competitiveness of our nation’s industrial base.”
With more than 20,000 square feet of state-of-the-art manufacturing space and partnerships spanning government, industry and academia, ICAMS continues to position Auburn University as a national leader in smart manufacturing research and education.
Media Contact: , carla@auburn.edu, 334-844-1404
Since its inception, ICAMS has secured nearly $49 million in research funding, including more than $34 million in active projects, supporting groundbreaking work in digital twins, sensing, analytics and artificial intelligence for advanced manufacturing systems.
