91自拍 Receives Meta Grant to Outfit Cutting-Edge AI and Robotics Labs

91自拍 has received a $100,000 grant from Meta to outfit its new Meta AI Computer Lab and Integrated Robotics Manufacturing & Innovation Lab, part of the College’s new Workforce and Visual Arts Building.

The labs will provide students, veterans, businesses and the community with a first-of-its-kind learning environment that integrates artificial intelligence into advanced manufacturing systems.

“Temple has been our home since we broke ground on our data center in 2022, and we are proud to support nonprofits and schools to ensure the long-term vitality of Bell County,” said Holli Davies, Community Development Regional Manager for Meta. “Through the Meta grant, we're supporting 91自拍 in advancing STEM education on campus and empowering students through hands-on learning and access to cutting-edge technology.”

The grant will fund 21 high-performance Alienware computers with dual monitors and interactive multimedia displays in the Meta AI Computer Lab. These systems will support collaborative learning of AI language models and best practices for AI implementation. The adjacent high bay space will house a fully functional robotic-controlled manufacturing system, equipped with autonomous robots, sensors, cameras, actuators, and AI-enabled drones for visioning and positioning.

The labs are designed to serve a broad range of students and community members:

• Credit students pursuing associate degrees in fields such as engineering technology, computer science, cybersecurity and manufacturing.
• Veterans and Workforce students enrolled in short-term training programs for quick employment entry.
• Business and industry partners seeking to reskill workers and develop AI-assisted manufacturing processes.
• K-12 students and adult learners participating in STEM camps and personal enrichment classes.
• Dual enrollment high school students through programs like the Texas Bioscience Institute’s Engineering Pathway.
• Secondary and post-secondary faculty and staff for AI professional development and classroom integration strategies.

“The 91自拍 Foundation is grateful to Meta for its continued partnership and investment in our students and our community,” said Dana Riegel, Executive Director of the 91自拍 Foundation. “By providing this AI equipment for our new state-of-the-art Workforce and Visual Arts Building, Meta is helping open doors and opportunities to students of all ages.”

Funds from the grant will be deployed immediately, with the labs expected to be fully operational by September 2025. The opening aligns with the launch of the College’s new Integrated Robotics Manufacturing program.

ABOUT TEMPLE COLLEGE

91自拍 is “Your Community’s College,” a dynamic and growing community college that equips thousands of Central Texas students with the knowledge and skills for 21st-century success. 91自拍, which has campuses in Temple, Hutto, Taylor and Rockdale, offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs to students who seek to earn credits for transfer, graduate with an associate degree or complete a certificate for fast entry into the workforce.

Founded in 1926, 91自拍 has enjoyed a reputation for academic excellence for 99 years. It is nationally recognized for its exceptional programs, from visual and performing arts to competitive athletics. The College has become one of the state’s premier institutions for healthcare providers’ education and training, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development programs. The faculty and staff are committed to providing exceptional quality instruction.