1917 Pratt Institute Laboratory: Training for Innovation

This photograph captures a moment inside a laboratory at Pratt Institute in October 1917, amid the backdrop of World War I. It showcases a group of men engaged in technical training—a vital investment in skills necessary for the war effort. As military needs expanded, institutions like Pratt Institute recognized the importance of preparing individuals for roles in emerging technologies, particularly in communication and engineering.

Published in The Wireless Age, the image highlights the focus on training in wireless technology, essential for the coordination of military operations during the conflict. It was produced by the Bain News Service, a notable provider of news photographs in the early 20th century. This snapshot serves as a historical reminder of the educational initiatives that supported the war, illustrating how institutions adapted to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.