OSUIT’s IT Innovations Lab Brings Real-World Tech Experiences to Students

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology recently opened its doors to the newly renovated IT Innovations Lab, a space designed to help students develop hands-on skills in information technology, robotics, and other cyber-related fields. The lab was founded and curated by OSUIT faculty member Howard Licht and was created in response to student enthusiasm for his hardware courses.

“We began integrating Raspberry Pi micro-computers,” said Howard Licht, lab coordinator. “The traditional classroom setup limited the space needed for tinkering, testing, and experimentation.”

A Space Designed for Collaboration

The IT Innovations Lab isn’t your average classroom. “It’s a playground for tech,” Kathleen Olivieri, OSUIT assistant dean, said, designed to mimic real-world IT environments and make collaboration and project development more accessible while allowing students to focus on deadlines and deliverables without distraction.

The lab’s layout provides students with individual workspaces while maintaining easy access to peers and educators, encouraging collaboration and interaction. OSUIT also incorporated a smaller lecture room for students who prefer a quieter, more intimate space for studying or creating.

Flexible Learning Environments

This smaller space supports small-group projects and planning meetings. “These spaces mirror real-world IT work environments where teams shift fluidly between planning, building, and refining solutions,” Licht said.

Students have expressed excitement about the lab’s additions, which allow them to complete projects more effectively and efficiently. Tasks that were previously unattainable are now more manageable, as students can build small systems that interface with sensors, automate processes, and strengthen their Python programming skills. Due to this enthusiasm and the lab’s expanded capabilities, Raspberry Pi projects were incorporated into new Internet of Things (IoT) courses, giving students additional opportunities to explore micro-computing and creative problem-solving.

“Today, the lab has evolved into a multi-room innovation suite that welcomes all IT majors,” Licht said. “It’s now a space where students across programs can explore micro-computing, IoT, automation, and creative problem-solving.”

The lab also features a full-size Faraday Room, which blocks all wireless signals and provides an ideal environment for digital forensics students who require a space free of signal contamination and for a realistic simulation of the environment used by law enforcement.

“The lab includes areas for lectures, small-group work, and wireless testing, but the commercial-sized Faraday Room is the centerpiece for cybersecurity and forensics,” Licht said. “In this controlled, signal-blocked environment, students can safely explore.”

Powered by OneNet Connectivity

With multiple students working simultaneously, reliable and fast internet access is essential. OneNet’s high-bandwidth connectivity ensures coursework can be completed efficiently without interruptions or delays, even as students download software updates, access cloud-based resources, or work across multiple devices.

This high-quality connectivity extends beyond the classroom. Students can participate in virtual meetings, complete presentations, stream content, and collaborate with others without lag or interference.

“This reliability is essential for bringing in remote speakers, industry partners, or collaborative learning experiences,” Licht said.

Security is also a key component of the lab’s infrastructure. OneNet’s firewall services protect students and university systems as they experiment with microcomputers and connected devices. Students can focus on building and testing projects without concern for information leakage or digital threats.

“As students experiment with emerging technology, security becomes just as important as speed,” said Brian Burkhart, OneNet chief technology officer. “OneNet services help create a safe environment for students to test ideas and learn without compromising data.”

Preparing Students for the Future of Technology

OSUIT remains committed to advancing student engagement in technology. The IT Innovations Lab provides students with the freedom to explore new ideas beyond the constraints of a traditional classroom, helping them develop the skills and confidence necessary to enter in-demand technology and cybersecurity careers.

As technology continues to evolve, so will the lab. OSUIT is already integrating artificial intelligence into coursework and expanding opportunities for students to learn and adapt to emerging technologies.

“Our newest artificial intelligence courses use micro-computers equipped with AI capabilities, further broadening what students can build,” Licht said. “As technology evolves, the lab will continue to grow.”

“Innovation begins with imagination, but it becomes real only when supported by the right tools,” Licht said. “OSUIT’s IT Innovations Lab, powered by OneNet’s connectivity and security, gives students a place to explore, test ideas, and push boundaries.”

Learn more about OSUIT’s participation in Oklahoma’s research network.