Soka's Hands-on Program Fosters Future Innovators at Tokyo Denki University

Nurturing Future Innovators: Soka City and Tokyo Denki University Collaboration

In a remarkable initiative, Kato Works, led by President Katsuhiro Kato, has teamed up with Soka City and Tokyo Denki University to create a hands-on educational experience called "City Hero Academy: Special Edition - Science." This program aims to ignite interest in science and manufacturing among elementary and middle school students, specifically targeting those in grades 5-6 and 7-9.

Program Overview

The program consists of three sessions designed to provide an educational experience that is typically absent from conventional schooling. The events will be held close to convenient train stations, including Kitasenju, Soka, and Satte, allowing easy access for local residents. The overarching goal is to collaborate with the local educational landscape to enhance learning opportunities in the region.

Each of the three sessions will focus on different aspects of scientific principles and manufacturing processes, encouraging the students to engage critically and creatively with the material. A total of 25 students from Soka City will participate, enabling them to explore subjects that may well shape their future careers.

Details of the Program

1. Session One: Learning About the Power of Oil and Electric Systems Through Cranes
- Date: July 4, 2026
- Location: Tokyo Denki University, Tokyo Senju Campus
- Content: Students will learn about electrical and hydraulic systems while assembling model cars to deepen their understanding of regenerative systems.

2. Session Two: Understanding the Importance of Infrastructure Maintenance
- Date: July 22, 2026
- Location: New Soka Fire Department
- Content: The focus will be on the crucial role that infrastructure maintenance plays, along with understanding the significance of local governance and the role cranes play in infrastructure development.

3. Session Three: Discovering How Large Cranes are Made
- Date: August 25, 2026
- Location: Kato Works, Ibaraki Factory
- Content: Participants will get an exclusive factory tour, meeting engineers and observing the entire manufacturing process of cranes that support city infrastructure. Each session will conclude with reflections and group presentations, incorporating feedback from local government, university staff, and current engineers.

Ibaraki Factory Insights

Kato Works' Ibaraki factory serves as a principal manufacturing hub for constructing various cranes, including rough-terrain and all-terrain cranes. These vital machines are extensively utilized in bridge constructions, building projects, and infrastructure enhancements, thus playing a critical role in supporting Japan's social foundations.

About Kato Works

Founded in 1895, Kato Works has been at the forefront of manufacturing construction machinery, specializing in cranes and hydraulic excavators, among other products. With a rich history and a commitment to innovation and quality, Kato Works continues to exemplify excellence in the industry.