Dan Beard Council receives two robots to help launch trades training center

A donation of two industrial robots from Motoman Robotics will help the Dan Beard Council, Scouting America, connect thousands of local youth with careers in the skilled trades.

The Miamisburg-based company, a division of Yaskawa America Inc., has contributed the technology to support the council’s new Dever Family Foundation Scouting Skilled Trades Education Center. The 10,000-square-foot facility is under construction at Camp Friedlander in Loveland and scheduled to open in fall 2025.

Council leaders say the robots will anchor the center’s automation and programming training and provide hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing, a field they believe offers growing opportunities for young people exploring alternatives to traditional four-year degrees.

Motoman Robotics made the donation as part of its broader commitment to workforce development and STEM education. 

“This partnership helps bring cutting-edge technology directly into the hands of young people,” said Andy Zahn, scout executive and CEO of Dan Beard Council. “These robots will empower thousands of Scouts over the years to explore robotics, engineering, and advanced manufacturing in ways that are both engaging and educational.”

Investing in young people, the economy

As the largest youth-serving nonprofit in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region, the Dan Beard Council reports serving more than 12,000 Scouts and 3,400 adult leaders across five counties in Ohio and seven in Northern Kentucky.

Internal surveys show that 64% of Scouts say their Scouting experience influenced their career choice, according to the Council.

According to the Council, local employers continue to struggle to find skilled workers, and the shortage is expected to worsen as experienced tradespeople retire in the coming decade. Council leaders see the center as a way to introduce youth – particularly those in grades five through 10 – to trades early, strengthening the talent pipeline for programs like Great Oaks and other vocational schools.

The Skilled Trades Education Center will feature six bays dedicated to in-demand fields such as automotive maintenance, welding, plumbing, carpentry, electricity and home repair. 

Zahn said the center will initially serve about 500 Scouts per year, each receiving approximately 10 hours of merit badge-aligned instruction. The facility will also be available for use by businesses and community organizations for off-site training and events.

The council estimates construction of the training facility will cost between $1.5 and $3 million, depending on final scope and the level of community support. Beyond financial contributions, the council is seeking in-kind donations, training equipment, volunteer mentors and endowment support to sustain long-term operations.

For more information or to get involved, contact Andy Zahn at Andy.Zahn@scouting.org.

“[Motoman Robotics’ donation is] a game-changer for our workforce development efforts and a perfect example of industry and Scouting working together to build a stronger future,” Zahn said.