Prepare Students for Tomorrow’s Technical Careers
Across the United States, schools and colleges are preparing the next generation of innovators, engineers, and technicians. Tech-Labs supports that mission with access to LJ Create’s hands-on learning solutions and engaging digital curriculum designed to inspire students and build real-world career skills.
LJ Create Career Pathways programs give learners practical experience as they explore, understand, and prepare for careers in engineering, manufacturing, technology, and more.
Career Preparation Programs
- Career Exploration Program – Introduces students to technical career pathways through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
- Design and Technology Program – Helps learners develop problem-solving, design thinking, and applied STEM skills.
- Industry 4.0 Program – Prepares students for modern manufacturing, automation, smart technology, and connected industry environments.
Why Schools Choose LJ Create
- Hands-on activities that connect classroom learning to real-world careers.
- Digital curriculum that supports instructors and keeps students engaged.
- Flexible program options for middle school, high school, college, and workforce training.
- Career-focused learning aligned with today’s technical workforce needs.
The Matrix TSL Automatics range is designed to simplify the teaching of
pneumatics and automation, while also providing a powerful platform for
PLC programming and control. Built with industry-standard components adapted
for education, Automatics allows students to move from foundational concepts to advanced
automation applications using real hardware and software.
This video demonstrates how instructors can integrate PLC programming into their curriculum
using multiple flexible approaches—whether introducing basic control concepts or developing
advanced programming skills aligned with industry practices.
Control Add-On Kit for PLC Training
The Control Add-On Kit enhances the Automatics Essentials system by introducing
a powerful PLC, sensors, and solenoid valves. This setup allows students to
directly control pneumatic hardware using software-based programming.
- Develop skills in reading sensors and switches
- Control pneumatic circuits through software commands
- Understand digital vs. analog signals
- Use flowcharts to visualize logic and decision-making
- Program sequences, loops, and feedback systems
Two curriculum levels are included: one focused on pre-programmed control,
and another introducing students to writing their own PLC programs.
PLC Integration with Industry Controllers
For programs that want to align with specific manufacturers, the Automatics system can be
expanded using a PLC bracket and input/output modules. This allows connection
to a wide range of industry-standard PLCs, including:
- Siemens
- Mitsubishi
- Allen-Bradley
- Omron
- Other leading PLC platforms
Students can then program using ladder logic or manufacturer-specific software,
gaining experience that directly translates to real-world automation environments.
Siemens S7-1200 Add-On Training Option
As an educational partner of Siemens, Matrix TSL also offers a dedicated
S7-1200 PLC training add-on. This solution includes:
- Siemens PLC hardware
- Industry-standard programming software
- Curriculum aligned to Siemens automation systems
This option provides students with hands-on experience using one of the most widely used
PLC platforms in modern industry.
Flexible Solutions for Automation Education
Whether introducing basic control concepts or delivering advanced PLC programming, the
Matrix Automatics range offers flexible, scalable solutions to meet the needs
of secondary, postsecondary, and workforce training programs.
With modular hardware, structured curriculum, and compatibility with multiple PLC platforms,
educators can design training that aligns with industry standards and workforce demands.
Download the Matrix Automatics PLC Adaptor Guidelines to learn how to connect PLC systems to pneumatic training platforms for advanced automation instruction.
Available through Tech-Labs, these adaptor modules allow educators to bridge pneumatic fundamentals with real-world PLC control, helping students build practical automation skills.
What’s Covered in This Guide
- PLC input, output, relay, and power interface modules
- Wiring diagrams and connection examples
- Module compatibility with different PLC types
- DIN rail mounting options and configurations
- Suggested setups for Siemens and other PLC systems
The guide outlines multiple module options for connecting PLC inputs, motor outputs, relay outputs, and power connections to the Automatics training platform.
Why PLC Integration Matters
Integrating PLCs into pneumatic training allows students to move beyond basic circuits into industrial automation concepts such as digital inputs/outputs, relay logic, sequencing, and control system design.
- Bridges foundational skills with advanced automation
- Supports real-world industrial control workflows
- Enhances troubleshooting and system design skills
This guide is ideal for programs looking to expand into Industry 4.0-aligned automation training.
EBlocks3 from Matrix TSL is a modern, modular embedded systems platform designed to simplify the teaching and learning of microcontrollers, electronics, programming, and rapid prototyping. Whether students are just beginning their journey in embedded systems or advancing toward complex IoT and automation projects, EBlocks3 provides a flexible and scalable learning environment.
The platform combines powerful upstream processor boards with a growing ecosystem of downstream modules, allowing learners to build complete embedded systems quickly and easily. With support for PIC®, Arduino®, ESP32, and FPGA technologies, EBlocks3 enables institutions to teach multiple hardware and software platforms using a common modular architecture.
- Modular design for rapid system development and experimentation
- Compatible with PIC, Arduino, ESP32, and FPGA platforms
- Integrated color touchscreen display with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities
- Automatic hardware detection through Matrix Auto-ID technology
- Support for Flowcode, MPLAB X, Arduino IDE, and other development environments
- Extensive range of sensor, communications, actuator, and interface boards
- Designed specifically for educational environments
- Fully compatible with existing EBlocks 2 downstream hardware
EBlocks3 helps bridge the gap between theory and practical application by allowing students to build real-world embedded systems using industry-relevant hardware. Learners can explore digital electronics, sensor integration, communications protocols, control systems, wireless technologies, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications through hands-on projects and experimentation.
The modular architecture allows instructors to create learning experiences that grow alongside student skill levels—from introductory electronics concepts through advanced embedded systems development and engineering design projects.
- Overview of the EBlocks3 platform architecture
- PIC, Arduino, ESP32, and FPGA programming solutions
- Communication and networking modules
- Sensor and actuator expansion boards
- Prototype and project development boards
- Wireless, RFID, Ethernet, CAN Bus, and IoT technologies
- Software integration and Flowcode support
- Technical specifications and system configurations
Prepare students for today’s automotive careers with AutoLab from LJ Create, a complete automotive training program designed to support ASE-aligned instruction through digital curriculum, hands-on trainers, simulations, assessments, and practical skills lessons.
The AutoLab program helps instructors guide students from classroom theory to shop-based application. With resources for light-vehicle systems, EV technology, medium- and heavy-vehicle skills, and ASE task alignment, AutoLab provides a flexible way to strengthen or expand an automotive technology program.
What’s Inside the Brochure?
- ASE-aligned learning pathways for MLR, AST, and MAST levels
- Knowledge Lessons including presentations, investigations, simulations, and assessments
- Skills Lessons using automotive rigs, panel trainers, circuit trainers, job sheets, and shop activities
- Light vehicle training equipment covering electrical, braking, steering, suspension, engine management, HVAC, and more
- EV and hybrid training resources for modern automotive programs
- ASE crosswalk support to help match equipment to relevant ASE tasks
Electrical training programs are essential for preparing students and technicians for careers in electrical systems, industrial maintenance, automation, and skilled trades.
This free guide provides a practical framework for developing workforce-ready electrical training programs that align with employer needs while balancing equipment, curriculum, facility, and budget considerations.
Inside the Guide:
- Current workforce challenges impacting electrical training programs
- A workforce-ready electrical training framework
- Program design and lab planning recommendations
- Equipment and technology integration strategies
- Curriculum alignment and certification pathways
- Implementation and program growth best practices
Who Should Download This Guide?
- CTE Directors
- Electrical Instructors
- Technical College Faculty
- Workforce Development Leaders
- Apprenticeship Coordinators
- Training Managers
Whether you're launching a new electrical program, modernizing an existing lab, or expanding workforce development initiatives, this guide can help support your planning process.
Matrix Lab: Complete Engineering Training Laboratories Designed for Student Success
Matrix Lab provides a comprehensive approach to engineering education by combining hands-on training equipment, interactive software, curriculum resources, instructor support, and complete lab design services into a unified learning environment. Designed to inspire the next generation of engineers and technicians, Matrix Lab solutions help educational institutions create engaging, practical learning experiences that bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world applications.
From individual classroom training systems to fully customized engineering laboratories, Matrix Lab supports educators with everything needed to build effective training environments. Each solution is designed for durability, flexibility, and long-term value, allowing programs to expand and evolve as industry requirements and educational objectives change.
What's Included with Matrix Lab?
- Hands-On Equipment designed for practical engineering and technical training
- Interactive Software developed alongside the equipment for data collection, analysis, and experimentation
- Teaching Resources including instructor guides, worksheets, assessments, and lesson materials
- Custom Lab Design services tailored to available space, class sizes, and learning objectives
- Teacher Portal with access to instructor resources, answers, results, and planning tools
- Online Learning Environment featuring simulations, interactive exercises, progress tracking, and student feedback
- Lifetime Support from training and implementation through ongoing classroom assistance
- Storage and Furniture Planning to maximize functionality and organization
Engineering Disciplines Supported
Matrix Lab solutions support a wide variety of engineering and technical education pathways, helping institutions create specialized learning environments for multiple disciplines.
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Manufacturing and Automation
- Industrial Maintenance
- Aerospace Engineering
- Automotive Technology
- Skilled Trades
- Renewable Energy
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Defense and Technical Training
Designed for Every Learning Environment
Whether serving high schools, community colleges, universities, private training providers, or industrial workforce development programs, Matrix Lab solutions can be customized to meet specific curriculum requirements and facility constraints. The modular approach allows institutions to start with targeted training areas and expand over time as programs grow.
From Empty Space to Complete Engineering Lab
Matrix Lab offers a complimentary lab planning and design service that helps institutions transform unused or underutilized space into modern engineering learning environments. Services include room layout planning, equipment selection, storage recommendations, furniture integration, and instructor training to ensure successful implementation and long-term program success.
Ready to create a hands-on engineering training environment? Contact Tech-Labs to learn how Matrix Lab can help design and equip a complete laboratory solution tailored to your educational goals and workforce development needs.
Discover the Matrix Fundamental Fluids training system and see how students can explore the principles of fluid mechanics through engaging, hands-on experiments.
Designed for mechanical engineering and engineering technology programs, the system combines a versatile main workstation with sixteen interchangeable experiment modules to create nine laboratory experiments. Students investigate concepts such as pressure, flow, and fluid behavior while building practical skills through real-world testing.
Six experiments utilize USB-connected pressure and flow sensors to automatically capture and graph data for analysis, while three manual experiments reinforce traditional measurement and interpretation techniques. Quick-release components allow each experiment to be assembled and changed over quickly, and a complete curriculum with guided laboratory exercises is included to support instruction.
Watch the video below to see the Matrix Fundamental Fluids system in action and learn how it can enhance hands-on fluid mechanics education.
Understanding how arches transfer loads is a fundamental part of structural and civil engineering education. The Matrix Two & Three Pinned Arch Experiment allows students to investigate the behavior of two of the most common arch configurations through practical, hands-on experiments that reinforce structural analysis theory.
In this overview video, you'll see how the training system enables learners to compare two-pinned and three-pinned arches while measuring horizontal thrust, vertical support reactions, and load distribution under a variety of loading conditions. Students can collect real experimental data, compare their findings with theoretical calculations, and gain a deeper understanding of structural mechanics.
What You'll Learn
- Compare the behavior of two-pinned and three-pinned arches.
- Measure horizontal thrust generated within arch structures.
- Determine vertical reactions at the supports.
- Investigate how loads are distributed throughout an arch.
- Validate theoretical calculations using experimental measurements.
- Develop practical skills in structural analysis and engineering mechanics.
Ideal For
- Civil Engineering programs
- Structural Engineering courses
- Engineering Mechanics laboratories
- University engineering education
- Applied structural analysis training
By combining theoretical concepts with experimental investigation, the Matrix Two & Three Pinned Arch system gives students valuable insight into how real structures behave under load while strengthening their analytical and problem-solving skills.
