Oklahoma State University College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology’s New Product Development Center is helping small manufacturers across the state explore advanced automation through a hands-on robotics pilot program designed to reduce barriers and improve operational efficiency.

Through a partnership with the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology’s Inventors Assistance Service, NPDC provides companies with the opportunity to test robotic systems in their own facilities before making a financial commitment.

The initiative allows participating companies to use a Standard Bots robotic arm for 30 days at no upfront cost, giving them time to evaluate its impact on production and determine whether the investment makes business sense.

“This project allows us to put a robotic arm into the facility, help them get set up, and then let them try it out,” said Kristina Wadley, associate director of programs at OCAST. “They’re able to see if it’s worthwhile for them and if the return on investment is there.”

NPDC engineers work directly with each company to install and program the robots while training employees to operate the systems. Advances in user-friendly programming have made the technology more accessible, allowing workers to guide the robot through tasks and set positions using simplified controls.

“We have seen the most interest from companies struggling to expand their workforce with qualified employees, particularly for repetitive or physically demanding tasks,” said Robert Taylor of NPDC.

The program is especially impactful for small and rural manufacturers, which often face challenges in adopting high-end technology due to cost and technical barriers.

By lowering those barriers, NPDC is helping companies rethink how automation can support their workforce.

One Oklahoma manufacturer is using the robotic system to help create a more efficient and forward-looking workplace for employees in his small-town community while meeting growing production demands.

Impact Precision Shooting, a manufacturer of precision components for bolt-action rifles, has built a strong reputation in the competitive shooting community. Owner Tate Streater estimates its receivers are used by roughly 70% of top-ranked shooters and have accounted for more national-level match wins than any other manufacturer since 2019.

“The robots really assist in helping me create an ideal work environment for my employees,” Streater said. “Those guys who were running machines are now inspecting parts and assembling parts.”

Rather than reducing jobs, the addition of robotics has allowed the company to shift employees into more skilled roles while increasing production capacity to meet growing demand.

After seeing early success, the company has already expanded its use of automation.

“Since then, we bought another robot, and it has opened our eyes and changed our way of thinking,” Streater said. “There is no doubt I’ll have four robots in the next six months.”

Interest in the program continues to grow. NPDC has met with approximately 20 companies to evaluate how robotics could support their operations. The installation at Impact Precision Shooting represents the program’s first implementation, with additional systems scheduled for deployment in the coming weeks.

Wadley said the program reflects OCAST’s broader mission to support innovation and economic growth across Oklahoma.

“Our main goal is driving innovation, new capabilities, and growth within companies, specifically around technology and manufacturing,” she said. “NPDC has managed the Inventors Assistance Service, the driving force behind this program, for decades with great success, and we’re extremely grateful for the work they do.”

Even after installation, companies can continue receiving support as they adopt new technology.

“Assisting small manufacturers as they modernize operations is a key part of this initiative,” said Jodi Prouty, interim director of NPDC.

By combining technical expertise with state support, the program is helping manufacturers modernize operations and strengthen Oklahoma’s industrial landscape.

For many companies, the impact is immediate, improving efficiency and job quality while opening the door to continued growth through advanced technology.