Washington D.C. – Jacksonville State University is set to receive $10 million in federal earmarked funding secured through the office of Mike Rogers, a significant investment aimed at advancing manufacturing initiatives and expanding law enforcement training capabilities on campus.
According to university officials, the federal investment includes $6.5 million toward developing an improved future home for the Center for Manufacturing Support, $2 million for the Additive Manufacturing Training and Innovation Lab, and $1.5 million for the Law Enforcement Training Center. University leaders say the funding will enhance the institution’s ability to support industry partners, prepare students for high-demand careers, and expand professional training programs that serve communities across Alabama and beyond.
“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Rogers for his continued support of Jacksonville State University and the work we are doing to strengthen our state,” Jax State President Dr. Don Killingsworth said. “This $10 million investment allows us to expand two of our programs that are leading the way in meeting our state’s workforce needs. It will enhance our Center for Manufacturing Support and our Law Enforcement Training Center in ways that directly support industry growth and safer communities across Alabama.”
Rep. Rogers, a JSU alumnus, said the funding reflects ongoing efforts to direct federal investment to Alabama’s Third Congressional District.
“I am proud to see this funding going to my Alma mater, Jacksonville State University,” Rogers said. “This funding will support additional manufacturing education and local law enforcement on JSU’s campus. I consider it a critical part of my job in Washington to ensure as much investment as possible goes to Alabama’s third district, and I am excited to continue championing Jax State in Washington.”
Manufacturing programs to see major expansion
A combined $8.5 million will support the Center for Manufacturing Support and the Additive Manufacturing Training and Innovation Lab, expanding hands-on learning opportunities and strengthening the university’s capacity to assist regional manufacturers. Officials say the funding will support infrastructure for one of the university’s fastest-growing programs and establish advanced reverse engineering and measurement technologies designed to help manufacturers extend the operational life of critical equipment and remain competitive globally.
The investment builds on a previous $2.7 million in federal funding awarded last year that enabled JSU to construct its Additive Manufacturing Innovation and Training Lab. That earlier funding helped establish the foundation for expanded industry support across Northeast Alabama and the surrounding region.
With the new funding, the Center for Manufacturing Support will add reverse engineering and metrology technologies to help manufacturers recreate obsolete or unsupported parts, digitize legacy components, and perform precision inspection and quality verification. University leaders say these capabilities are intended to help companies reduce downtime, extend equipment life, and improve competitiveness.
“The $2.7 million investment last year enabled us to build the foundation for transformative industry support in our region,” said Matt Rosser, Director of the Jax State Center for Manufacturing Support. “This additional funding allows us to expand into reverse engineering and advanced metrology, giving manufacturers the tools they need to sustain operations, modernize legacy equipment, and remain competitive in the global marketplace.”
Officials also noted the impact on student learning. Applied engineering students will gain experience using advanced measurement, modeling, and quality assurance technologies commonly used in modern manufacturing environments.
“When a company partners with the CMS, our students are involved in the project,” said Dr. Dana Ingalsbe, Professor of Applied Engineering. “This helps develop not only technical skills, but the soft skills needed to thrive in today’s workplace.”
Law enforcement training to expand statewide and nationally
The $1.5 million allocated for the Law Enforcement Training Center will expand the university’s ability to deliver specialized training programs to law enforcement agencies across Alabama and, for the first time, more broadly across the country. Because the funding is federal, the center will have increased flexibility to serve agencies nationwide while continuing to provide training for Alabama officers.
“The funding we are receiving is such a blessing,” said Kaleb Littlejohn, Executive Director for the Center for Best Practices in Law Enforcement. “It truly grows our ability to have a positive impact on the law enforcement community and to provide essential training that makes our communities safer.”
Killingsworth said the funding reflects both the strength of the programs and the leadership behind them.
“I want to congratulate Dr. Ingalsbe, Mr. Rosser, Mr. Littlejohn, and Mr. Hopwood for their vision and leadership in developing initiatives that make a meaningful difference for our students, our industry partners, and the communities we serve,” he said. “Their work continues to position Jacksonville State University as a leader in advancing economic growth, workforce preparation, and public safety across Alabama.”
