May 20, 2026
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – For nearly 40 years, Lake Superior State University Professor Jim Devaprasad has prepared students for careers at the forefront of robotics and automation. Today, many of those students are leaders throughout the industry, shaping the design, programming, and integration of technologies in modern manufacturing and innovation.
Now, the industry is recognizing that impact.
The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) has named Devaprasad its 2026 Educator of the Year. A3 is North America’s largest automation trade association, representing more than 1,450 companies, businesses, and educational institutions involved in robotics, machine vision, motion control, and related technologies. He will be presented the award on June 23, 2026, at the annual Automate 2026 Robotics and Automation Show/Conference in Chicago.
A3 states that 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.”
A professor in LSSU’s School of Engineering and Technology, and director of the Center for Advanced Robotics Engineering, Devaprasad has spent four decades helping expand and evolve 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 expanded to include robotics concentrations, culminating in the development of a Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering, one of only a handful of nationally accredited programs of its kind across the country.
“Over the years, the names of LSSU’s robotics programs and concentrations have evolved alongside rapid changes in the industry,” said Dr. Kimberly Muller, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Lake Superior State University. “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.”
Devaprasad’s influence extends well beyond the classroom. Through strong partnerships with alumni and industry leaders, he has helped secure more than $3 million in robotics and automation equipment, and more than $2 million in grants supporting engineering education, ensuring LSSU students have access to the equipment and experiences that mirror today’s workplace.
“Jim has led the education and development of so many robotics industry leaders,” said Scot Lindemann, a 1989 LSSU alumnus in Automated Systems Engineering Technology, CEO of Mission Design & Automation, and member of A3’s Robotics Technology Strategy Board. “The program at LSSU has been leading the top robotics education ideas for 30 years.”
Alumni like Lindemann help drive innovation and leadership across virtually every sector of automation, carrying forward the lessons and hands-on approach instilled by Devaprasad at LSSU.
“The impact Jim Devaprasad has had on the robotics industry, and on those of us fortunate enough to learn from him, cannot be overstated,” said Philip Peloso, Key Account Manager, KUKA Robotics USA, and 1992 LSSU graduate in Automated Systems Engineering Technology. “His passion for hands-on education and commitment to student success have shaped careers and the future of automation itself. This recognition from A3 is more than deserved—congratulations, Jim.”
While former students point to the lasting influence Devaprasad had on their careers, industry partners recognize the impact of his work on the field as a whole.
“Jim has left a lasting impression on countless students and colleagues, inspiring everyone around him through his dedication,” said Lou Finazzo, Vice President, FANUC America Corporation. “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, Jim!”
As part of the recognition, Devaprasad and LSSU will receive support through the Siemens Cooperates with Education program, including technology resources intended to expand hands-on learning opportunities for students in robotics and automation.
“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,” said Devaprasad. “As robotics and automation continue to shape industry, it has been an honor to help prepare future engineering leaders.”
Highlighting his passion for first-hand experiences, Devaprasad and a group of LSSU students will participate in Automate 2026, A3’s flagship automation event held June 22-25 in Chicago, where they’ll exhibit in the Education Pavilion (booth #33051), offering attendees a look at LSSU’s programs.
For more information on LSSU’s Engineering programs, visit: www.lssu.edu/eng
To learn more about LSSU Robotics, visit: www.lssu.edu/robotics
About Lake Superior State University
Lake Superior State University is a close-knit university in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where faculty and staff know their students by name. Founded in 1946, LSSU offers a unique personal education shaped by its size, setting, and spirit of community. The University’s one-rate tuition seeks to make education accessible to all students, while Laker athletics foster competitive spirit and school pride. Learn more at www.lssu.edu.
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