A new initiative at Youngstown State University is bringing together students, faculty and industry partners to tackle real-world challenges while giving participants valuable hands-on experience outside the classroom. After earning both a master's degree in industrial and systems engineering and a doctorate in materials science and engineering, Yelamanchi saw firsthand the value of interdisciplinary collaboration. Later, as a faculty member with professional industry experience, he envisioned a centralized hub where students and faculty could work together on authentic industry projects. As industry partners bring projects to YAMIC, students are hired or assigned to multidisciplinary teams that work alongside faculty experts to develop solutions. Through research grants, collaborative projects and direct industry engagement, students gain exposure to professional environments while contributing to meaningful work.