UNCW’s College of Science and Engineering (CSE), Protocase and its subsidiary, 45Drives, has announced a strategic partnership to provide students with enhanced research opportunities and hands-on training in advanced manufacturing and open-source data storage. This collaboration will not only open potential employment pathways for students in high-tech industries but also strengthen workforce development in the region.

“This partnership underscores CSE’s commitment to workforce development in the region,” said Ron Vetter, founding dean of the college. “By working with leading industry partners like Protocase and 45Drives, we are providing students with opportunities to gain critical experience and build successful careers in technology and engineering.

UNCW sees this partnership as an opportunity to align its educational programs with the needs of the technology industry, helping to create a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of local employers.

“As Protocase continues its expansion into the United States, we recognize the immense value of investing in the future workforce,” said Steve Lilley, co-founder and president of Protocase. “Our collaboration with UNCW will not only provide students with unparalleled access to state-of-the-art technology but also ensure that we are fostering the next generation of innovators who will drive the industry forward.”

Through this partnership, students and faculty at UNCW will gain access to cutting-edge technology and resources, enabling them to work alongside industry experts on groundbreaking research and development projects. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to participate in internships that provide invaluable real-world experience, preparing them to compete in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

The initiative will create direct career opportunities for students interested in open-source data storage solutions through 45Drives, Protocase’s subsidiary. 45Drives is known for its innovative, scalable and open-source approach to data storage, serving clients in government, academia and enterprise sectors worldwide.

“Open-source technology is shaping the future of data storage, and we’re thrilled to help prepare UNCW students to be at the forefront of this revolution,” said Doug Milburn, co-founder and president of 45Drives. “We believe that by giving students hands-on experience with our technologies, we can empower them to tackle the complex challenges of the digital age with confidence and expertise.”

With this partnership, Protocase, 45Drives and UNCW are paving the way for a new generation of skilled professionals in greater eastern North Carolina and beyond who will help shape the future of manufacturing, engineering and data storage.