Visit spotlights HU’s advanced manufacturing program, STORMWERX research center, and partnerships with the military and industry.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (Oct. 5, 2026) — U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and U.S. Rep. Scott Perry will visit Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) on Tuesday morning, Oct. 6, to mark Manufacturing Week and see how the University is preparing students for careers in advanced manufacturing while advancing solutions for the military and industry.
Speaker Johnson and Rep. Perry will hold a brief media availability at 9:30 AM to discuss the role of manufacturing and how institutions like Harrisburg University prepare students for the work of the future and help the military use advanced manufacturing to save time and reduce costs.
“We are honored to welcome Speaker Johnson and Congressman Perry to Harrisburg University of Science and Technology to see how our students, faculty, and researchers are helping shape the future of manufacturing,” said Dr. Christopher M. Reber, president of Harrisburg University. “Through our advanced manufacturing program, STORMWERX, and partnerships showcased at J-DAMMIT (Joint-Advanced Manufacturing Meeting for Innovation and Transition), we connect hands-on learning with real challenges facing industry and our military. These collaborations prepare students for meaningful careers while advancing solutions that strengthen American manufacturing and support the men and women serving our nation.”
Rep. Perry, who represents Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District, visited the University in September during J-DAMMIT, a conference that showcases 3D printing, robotics, and innovative partnerships. During that visit, he saw multiple examples of how the University is using partnerships and grants to create money- and time-saving opportunities for the military and for troops in the field. He also saw the unique opportunities available to students studying advanced manufacturing at HU.
“This is the largest hands-on conference in the country and allows military and industry members to use and evaluate equipment. There is no other event like this in the country,” said LJ Holmes, executive director of STORMWERX at HU.
“Harrisburg University is unmatched across the country at the forefront of the fusion of technology and military capability,” Rep. Perry said. “We consider it one of the jewels in the crown of the 10th Congressional District.”
MEDIA AVAILABILITY
- When: Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026, at 9:30 AM
- Where: UPMC Health Sciences Tower at Harrisburg University (Room 211C), 222 Chestnut St., Harrisburg, PA 17101
- Note: Media will not accompany the tour. Members of the media should report directly to Room 211C to set up and hold until availability begins.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, analytics, biotechnology, cybersecurity, nursing, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, director of communications for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100 ext. 1724.
# # #
