MSU CAVS Extension to lead technical delivery of BOOST MS Pilot Program in partnership with MMA-MEP, AccelerateMS
Contact: James Carskadon
CANTON, Miss.—Mississippi State’s Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems Extension, in collaboration with the Mississippi Manufacturers Association–Manufacturing Extension Partnership, or MMA-MEP, and AccelerateMS, is announcing the BOOST MS Pilot Program to guide small and medium-sized manufacturers through the strategic adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies.
BOOST MS stands for Bringing Operational Optimization and Smart Technology to Mississippi. The new initiative is made possible through a $994,623 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, and part of a broader $1.4 million investment in Mississippi’s Appalachian counties.
Operating over a 22-month period, beginning September 2025 and concluding in July 2027, the program will provide direct support to manufacturers across all 24 Mississippi Appalachian counties. Industry 4.0 technologies include automation, artificial intelligence, smart sensors, predictive maintenance and connected systems, while driving digital transformation through automated business processes. BOOST MS will provide companies with assessments to help identify areas of opportunity, customized Technology Transformation Roadmaps with recommended solutions, hands-on technical assistance to implement technologies, and upskill training for 25 manufacturers and more than 150 employees to create sustainability in the region.
As the technical lead, MSU’s Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems Extension, known as CAVS-E, will leverage its nationally recognized expertise in advanced manufacturing, automation, data analytics and process improvement to deliver high-impact solutions. Through its CAVS-E Experiential Learning Lab and the Advancements in Manufacturing Upskilling Program, or AiM UP, labs at East Mississippi and Northeast Mississippi community colleges, partners will provide immersive training and technology integration support tailored to each manufacturer’s needs.
“The BOOST MS program represents a pivotal leap forward for Mississippi manufacturers,” said Tonya McCall, MSU CAVS-E director. “By introducing advanced technologies such as automation, data analytics and smart systems, we are equipping manufacturers with the technical skills and confidence necessary to transform their operations. This strategic deployment of Industry 4.0 will drive productivity gains, strengthen the state’s competitive edge and embed innovation into the core of Mississippi’s manufacturing ecosystem.
“Insights gained from our National Science Foundation-funded SmartTech MS program over recent years have been instrumental in shaping BOOST MS, ensuring it directly responds to industry needs and delivers impactful technology solutions. Together, these efforts will build a sustainable culture of innovation and growth for manufacturers statewide.”
“The BOOST MS Pilot Program is a powerful example of how regional collaboration and federal investment can accelerate innovation in advanced manufacturing,” said Julie Jordan, MSU vice president for research and economic development. “By aligning with the goals of NSF SmartTech MS, this initiative not only equips Mississippi manufacturers with transformative technologies, but also builds a resilient workforce prepared for the future of Industry 4.0. SmartTech MS is about creating scalable, inclusive pathways for technology adoption, and BOOST MS is a model for how that vision comes to life in our communities.”
MMA-MEP will serve as the lead coordinating organization, ensuring manufacturers across the region have access to these critical resources. “This ARC investment strengthens our ability to support manufacturers as they navigate the transition to Industry 4.0,” said MMA-MEP Executive Director Sandy Crist. “Through strong partnerships with CAVS-E and AccelerateMS, we are bringing innovation, training and technology directly to Mississippi manufacturers, ensuring they remain competitive and resilient for years to come.”
AccelerateMS will provide funding to support training delivered by MSU and community college partners in the ARC region, helping to build long-term capacity for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.
“The BOOST MS Pilot Program is a critical investment in Mississippi’s workforce,” said AccelerateMS Executive Director Courtney Taylor. “By combining advanced training with hands-on technology adoption, we are preparing workers for high-demand careers and ensuring our manufacturers have the skilled talent they need to thrive in an Industry 4.0 economy.”
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