Ready to move beyond the classroom and work on real projects that actually matter to companies across Florida?
The University of Florida Industrial Training and Assessment Center (UF-ITAC) is your opportunity to gain hands-on experience in energy, sustainability, manufacturing, productivity, and cybersecurity while working alongside faculty and fellow students at the University of Florida.
This is a high-impact experience designed for curious, motivated students who want to learn by doing—especially those in engineering, biology, chemistry, and other STEM fields.
Why Students Join UF-ITAC
This is not a simulation or a classroom case study—you’ll work on real industry challenges and see your work make a real impact.
Students who participate can:
- Work directly with Florida manufacturing companies
- Gain hands-on technical and consulting experience
- Build in-demand skills employers are actively looking for
- Collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and peers
- Strengthen your resume with real project experience
- Explore career paths in energy, sustainability, operations, and cybersecurity
- Connect with industry professionals and potential employers
What You’ll Actually Do
Students help assess real facilities and identify improvements in areas like:
- Energy efficiency (lighting, HVAC, motors, systems upgrades)
- Waste reduction and sustainability strategies
- Productivity improvements (process flow, inventory, operations)
- Renewable energy opportunities
- Cybersecurity assessments for industrial systems
Student volunteers may help with site visits, data collection, analysis, and developing recommendations that companies can implement to save money, reduce waste, and improve performance.
Since 1990, UF-ITAC has completed 600+ industrial assessments—supported by the U.S. Department of Energy—helping companies achieve major cost and energy savings while giving students powerful, real-world experience.
Who Can Join?
UF-ITAC is open to UF students with curiosity and interest in applied problem-solving. You do not need prior industry experience—just motivation to learn and contribute.
Ready to Get Involved?
If you’re looking for hands-on experience that sets you apart, supports your professional growth, and connects you directly with industry partners, UF-ITAC is a great place to start.
Explore current opportunities and learn more on the UF-ITAC webpage.
Interested students can also contact Dr. Cardenas-Lailhacar, Assistant Director of UF-ITAC, at c.cardenas@ufl.edu with questions or to learn more about getting involved.
Step into real industry work while you’re still a student—don’t just learn about impact, help create it.
