The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and automation is ushering in a new era of advanced manufacturing—transitioning from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0. This shift emphasizes human-centric innovation, collaboration between humans and machines, and sustainable practices. For South Carolina to remain a leader in advanced manufacturing, its education system must anticipate and respond to these emerging needs. Industry 5.0 demands a highly skilled, adaptable workforce, even as demographic trends point to a shrinking labor pool.
Currently, industry requirements are outpacing the ability of educational institutions to deliver relevant skills. South Carolina’s technical college system, recognized as one of the strongest in the nation, is uniquely positioned to address this challenge. However, continued innovation in curriculum design, delivery methods, and partnerships with industry is essential.
This presentation will explore pioneering technical college projects that exemplify flexible, technology-driven learning environments. These initiatives demonstrate how competency-based education, immersive technologies, and industry-aligned programs can prepare a sophisticated workforce capable of thriving in the Industry 5.0 landscape. Attendees will gain insights into strategies for bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring that South Carolina—and similar regions—remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy
1 – What is Industry 5.0 and how does it differ from Industry 4.0?
2 – Identify the critical skills and competencies required for the future of the advanced manufacturing workforce.
3 – Learn how to design future-ready learning environments that support adaptive planning and remain innovative and relevant when long after the ribbon cutting.
4 – Learn how industry-education partnerships can accelerate workforce readiness and regional competitiveness.
5 – See how these lessons have been applied at the university, technical college and K-12 levels of education through case studies.
Adriane is a passionate and accomplished architect and project manager with more than 20 years of experience, specializing in higher education environments across the southeast. As a Higher Education Subject Matter Expert (SME), she brings deep knowledge of campus culture, academic programming, and the unique operational needs of learning spaces. Her portfolio includes academic buildings, technical education facilities, adaptive reuse projects, and community-serving environments—all shaped by her balanced appreciation for the arts and sciences.
Adriane’s expertise spans feasibility studies, space assessments, documentation, and construction administration. She is skilled in space planning, and code compliance. As both architect and project manager, Adriane is known for her collaborative leadership and her ability to guide institutions toward strategies that advance long-term goals. Her thoughtful, student-centered approach helps colleges and universities create flexible, functional environments that inspire learning and support evolving program needs.
Tim brings 20 years of design expertise with a specialized focus on Workforce Development, Higher Education technical programs, and Skilled Trades Training Centers. His work spans innovation hubs, advanced manufacturing labs, and instructional environments for trades such as HVAC, Welding, Electrical, and Construction. Tim develops purposeful, well-coordinated design solutions that mirror real-world environments and inspire creativity. He understands how facilities function as strategic tools—to attract students and faculty, support evolving workforce needs, and express institutional identity through thoughtful branding and planning.
As a Workforce and Training Center SME, Tim ensures every space is flexible, future-ready, and aligned with program goals. His experience with high-bay labs, clean / dust-controlled environments, and key support zones enables him to design highly functional, adaptable learning settings. Tim’s collaborative approach, easy-going nature, and keen attention to detail make him a trusted partner who helps clients create environments that foster relevant skills and support long-term growth.
Tim is a trusted K-12 / CATE (CTE) subject-matter expert with 40 years delivering programming, master planning, design, construction documents, and construction administration for Pre-K–12 clients. Known for relationship-driven leadership, he builds durable trust with superintendents, facilities directors, educators, and industry partners through transparent communication, active listening, and consistent follow-through. Tim’s work includes Charleston County School District’s Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies (90,000 SF, 2021), Jasper County’s C.A.T.E. Center (25,000 SF, $6.8M), and Fort Mill School District’s Training & Support Center (20,000 SF)—future-ready facilities shaped by robust stakeholder engagement and educational visioning. His ability to align diverse voices around shared goals consistently results in high-performing learning environments that support student success and workforce alignment. His collaborative approach aligns stakeholders around clear goals and translates them into high-performing, future-ready learning environments. Tim is licensed in South Carolina, NCARB certified, and active in AIA (SC) and A4LE.
Myrtle Beach, SC | March 8-11, 2026