ERLANGER, KY-MAG Industrial Automation Systems, a machine tool and systems company, has donated a $100,000 state-of-the-art vertical machining center (VMC) to Philadelphia University's School of Engineering and Textiles. The VMC is a prototyping machine designed to make critical metal, plastic or wood parts and components for the automotive, aerospace, marine, agricultural and medical industries. The new equipment will be used to build prototype parts for class work and research projects. MAG Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mo Meidar is a Philadelphia University alumnus.

"With the generosity of MAG Industrial Automation Systems and our alumnus, Mo Meidar, Philadelphia University students will have increased access to the latest machining technology to enhance their academic experience," says David Brookstein, dean of the School of Engineering and Textiles. "This donation will add a new level of sophistication for our engineering students."

Students currently work on manual equipment that produces smaller designs built to scale. The new machine will allow students the opportunity to work with the actual equipment they will see in the field as professional engineers. "This exceptional machine will be a 'real-world' learning tool for our students and will help them hit the ground running in the engineering field," says Dr. Muthu Govindaraj, professor of textile engineering. "This equipment is a major asset to our engineering program and our students will have a tremendous advantage when they enter their professions."

MAG also will provide additional tooling and training for the faculty and students to ensure they make the best use of the equipment. The 8,000-pound VMC arrived on campus February 9 and will be ready for use for the fall 2009 semester.

For more information, visitwww.mag-ias.com.