Paper ID #42915Enhancing Pathways to Degree Completion and Career Success for EngineeringStudentsDr. Ali Zilouchian, Florida Atlantic University Dr. Ali Zilouchian is currently the Director of Applied Engineering Research Center and Program Director at Keiser University. He is also the founding Director of a $4.5 Million Dollars grant from DOE at Florida Atlantic University (2016-2022). ©American Society for Engineering Education, 2024 Enhancing Pathways to Degree Completion and Career Success for Engineering StudentsABSTRACTIn this session, a pilot program addressing
Paper ID #43595Developing Career Pathways to Data Center Operations Through High SchoolSummer Bridge ProgramsMr. Josh Labrie, Northern Virginia Community College Josh earned a B.S. in Chemistry and a Master’s in Teaching at the University of Virginia, and taught chemistry and physical science in Prince William County Public Schools for 9 years. He joined Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) in 2012 as the program manager of NOVA SySTEMic, the college’s STEM program to expand regional capacity for STEM talent in northern Virginia. As the Director of NOVA SySTEMic he leads the team in STEM Outreach, manages NOVA’s
educationThe purpose of the paper is to identify strategies to encourage and facilitate stronger industryengagement among engineering faculty. A continuous engagement between industry and facultyis essential for faculty to understand current best practices in the industry and build strongerlinkages with theories and concepts. This knowledge, when brought back to the classroom,enriches students with practical skills and abilities to be successful in their careers. Additionally,engaging and working with the industry to design solutions helps higher education institutionsfulfill their broader mission of advancing research, providing meaningful education, andpromoting lifelong learning.ProblemTraditional industry-university collaborations in engineering
innovation [6].Additionally, camps like those at UW-Green Bay provide opportunities for campers to designtheir own video games or create robotic systems, making learning both fun and relevant [7] .This approach not only helps in reinforcing academic concepts but also prepares students forfuture careers in STEM fields, which are projected to grow significantly in the coming years.Moreover, STEM summer camps play a crucial role in addressing the gender and diversity gapsin STEM education. Programs are increasingly designed to be inclusive, encouragingparticipation from underrepresented groups. Initiatives like STREAMWORKS aim to ignitecuriosity and innovation among all students, regardless of their background [8]. By fostering aninclusive environment
University in School of Architecture, Division of Engineering Technology. Her primary research interest is on traffic operation and safety. Dr. Kobelo is currently working on studying traffic operation and safety in third world countries in particular Africa and how it affects their economy. She also has been working with minorities in the STEM fields and encouraging students to consider STEM related careers. She received her Master and PhD in Civil Engineering from Florida State University with her research focusing on safety analyses of non limited access roadways and interchanges respectively. She received her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Dar es Salaam and her major area of
-course substitution thatmatches the student's career focus is possible.Technician Preparation Programs DiscussionTables 1 and 2 present the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Electrical EngineeringTechnology and Mechanical Engineering Technology programs are respectively offered atBridgeValley Community and Technical College in their two-year, four-semester structure. Thecourse lists within semesters are not prioritized. The programs have a general education andprogram technical elective requirement as well as the same English (English Composition I),mathematics (Technical Algebra and Technical Trigonometry) and physical science (GeneralPhysics I and II) sequence), drafting/computer-aided design (Introduction to Drafting & 2DCAD
influence of internships on undergraduate success in engineeringtechnology and related disciplines. While many students opt for summer classes to accelerategraduation, internships are critical for developing practical skills, understanding career paths, andbridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice. Using Kolb's ExperientialLearning Theory as its framework, the research explores how internships enhance activeexperimentation and reflective observation, helping students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. The study focuses on Architecture, Construction Engineering Technology,Electronic Engineering Technology, and Facilities Management programs, using surveys to assessstudents' perceptions of internships. It
appeals to students of all ages, fostering an interest in STEM subjectswhile encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. This paper describes aweek-long engineering summer camp program designed for middle and high school students in2023 at East Tennessee State university (ETSU). The main goal of the camp was to introducestudent engineering, programs in the department and job prospects and to spark their interest inpursuing engineering education and career. During the camp students engaged in hands-onlearning experiences and featured lessons focusing on 3D scanning, drone technologies, 3Dprinting, circuitry, robot building, and prototyping. Students also learned about ETSU admissionprocesses, educational programs, financial aid
, sustenance, and success ofrenewable energy projects depend on a large scale of enhancing renewable energy awareness andskills [2]. Bridging the skill gap on one hand will improve energy access and on the other handcreate new jobs, providing employment opportunities to millions.Employment in the wind industry in the United States increased 32% from 2015 to 2016 [1] and5.6% from 2016 to 2017 compared to 1.8% and 1.6% in non-farm employment growth nationally[3]. In the last few years wind energy technician has become the second fastest-growingoccupation in the United States [4], following solar installer at number one. Hence, an availableand qualified workforce is essential for any industry. For the workforce to grow, career optionsneed to be
will havefundamentals presented in a prerecorded lecture, and problems with experiments will be assignedto further develop engineering tools in class. This will give the students the next set of tools theyneed to solve the project for that given module. In addition, the first weeks of the semester willserve as onboarding to college, with freshman success workshops and career developmentactivities continually being incorporated.The hypothesis is that this approach will take the course from a refresher course to a trueintroduction to engineering technology. It is anticipated that a higher-level math student will stayengaged through the projects, and the application of teams will enable them to assist lower-levelmath students in learning
,this project aligns directly with the priority focus areas outlined in the OWTI grant application,including curriculum expansion, workforce training for near-term industry needs, thedevelopment of a long-term talent pipeline, and the promotion of career opportunities amongunderrepresented populations. Table 1. Curriculum Integration Overview Target Course Topics Title Module HoursMET 308: Machine and Product Design and Manufacturing Gears 14DesignMET 305: Tooling for Composites Manufacturing Turbine Blade Using Composite
solutions in coastal communities. The minor is part of a more extensiveresearch, engagement, and education initiative at ODU to support adaptation and resilience forcoastal communities.The success of the minor will be measured through a combination of student performance andpost-graduation career paths, as well as through engagement with community partners to assessthe impact of students' work on coastal resilience. Ongoing assessment and evaluation of theminor's outcomes will ensure that it continues to meet the needs of both students and communities.New Course Additions for the Minor a. Managing the Climate Crisis i. Description - Managing the Climate Crisis is a course that provides a structured framework for developing
Engineering Technology CurriculumAbstract Creation of micro-credentials in higher education allows practitioners to add a new skillfor career advancement or change, as well as working toward a degree by stacking them. After thecompletion of GE’s Wind Turbine Technical Training Program, Farmingdale State College facultycreated a " Wind Energy" micro-credential focused on Wind Turbine operation and design. Thisprogram covers an array of topics that mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering students cantake. While creating this micro-credential program, the College followed the success stories ofwind turbine professionals. Furthermore, Farmingdale State College was able to secure grants andbuild a state-of-the-art wind turbine technology
the lucrative career choices made by students in therecent years. The extensive career opportunities in a wide variety of industries have beendemanding hands-on experience from the graduates of engineering technology program. Recentstudies on the engineering work force demonstrated the need for communication skills in additionto technical knowledge. One way of achieving these employer-desired skills is by incorporatingproject-based learning in the upper-level classes of the engineering technology program. Thispaper will present a detailed study of implementing project-based learning technique in a senior-level class of the engineering technology program. This investigation showed that the hands-onexperience earned by students who has a free
andcompetitiveness.BSET graduates are well-prepared for diverse careers in manufacturing, product design, testing,construction, technical services, and sales. Some may also pursue opportunities in engineeringentrepreneurship, facilities management, or operations management. By offering a four-yeardegree exclusively at regional campuses, the program addresses local industry needs whileequipping students with a solid foundation in both analytical and interpersonal skills. Thispreparation enables them to advance into managerial and leadership roles, contributing toinnovation and growth within the manufacturing sector.All BSET courses are designed using the backward design process [2],[3], which begins byidentifying specific, student-centered goals and objectives
Paper ID #38333Creation of an Engineering Technology ProgramDr. Robin A.M. Hensel, West Virginia University Robin A. M. Hensel, Ed.D., is a Teaching Professor in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineer- ing and Mineral Resources at West Virginia University and an ASEE Fellow member. Throughout her career, she has supported engineering teams as a mathematician and provided complete life-cycle manage- ment of Information Systems as a Computer Systems Analyst for the U.S. Department of Energy; taught mathematics, statistics, computer science, and fundamental engineering courses and served in several ad- ministrative
framework developed for this program; this is the fourth paperin the sequence. With this paper, the authors hope to share the implementation of the assessmentprocess and assessment results from the first four years of the program as the first cohort graduatedrecently. The authors also hope to share the best practices as the team prepares for the readinessreview.IntroductionABET Accreditation offers guidance for collegiate programs to meet essential standards necessaryto prepare graduates for successful careers in STEM fields. Employers recognize the importanceof the robust assessment process for the ABET-accredited programs and trust that the graduatesare prepared for the industry standards and are capable of meeting expectations. Since
implementssustainable engineering projects to improve the quality of life for disadvantaged communities. Thisstudy investigates the impact of student participation in an EWB project in a disadvantagedcommunity in Guatemala aimed at improving access to clean water. Specifically, the studyexplores the skills gained, career aspirations, and understanding of global issues and sustainabledevelopment among the participating students. The project involved a collaboration between EWBstudents and community members to design and implement a sustainable water supply distributionsystem. A post-project questionnaire was administered to the student participants to assess theproject’s impact on their personal and professional development. The results indicate that theproject
Engineer degree - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), MS in Mechanical Engineering - MIT, and MS in Ocean Systems Management - MIT. Energy Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Technology BS from Rochester Institute of Technology. Career: 1. Commander, United States Navy, Submarine and Engineering Duty Officer (Retired 2008). 2. Manufacturing Operations Manager and Continuous Improvement (Through 2017) Engineer. 3. Mechanical Engineering Technology Professor (2018 to Present). Licenses: Six-Sigma Blackbelt License from the American Society for Quality, PE in Mechanical Engineering, Department of Energy (DOE) Certified Nuclear Engineer. North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals (NABCEP
overall planning, organizing,and time management. With that desire, we have reason to research if these project managementskills and concepts are being taught effectively enough to prepare students for senior-levelcapstone courses and future careers. Degree programs that do not heavily focus on managementprinciples may impact students' abilities to obtain manager-style roles. Outside the classroom,there are opportunities to obtain this experience, such as through internships and studyingabroad. Data collected stem from a self-efficacy questionnaire administered to 811 students andvoluntarily completed by 361. The survey was issued at the beginning of the semester for ninefall courses through 15 different majors and intended to take approximately
the G.I. Bill program. Academic program preferences for veteran studentshave important implications across an organizational field where attention has sharpened onstudent matriculation, persistence, and retention. Some student veterans may pursue anengineering degree while others may earn a two- or four-year engineering technology degree.Student veterans should be aware of differences in these degrees and the career opportunities ineach. Some may put their technical military experience to use in higher education, while othersmay pursue a radically different educational path. There are numerous activities and processesemployed both before student veterans arrive and during their time on campus to ensure they arepart of the campus community and
community.IntroductionEngineering Technology programs, including both two year and four year tracks, continue togrow. Engineering and Engineering Technology by the Numbers [3] published that there were14,312 degrees awarded in the year 2019 alone. These degrees come from 111 institutions thatgrant Engineering Technology degrees [3]. Despite the considerable number of degrees awardedin Engineering Technology disciplines, there is little research conducted on the experiences ofEngineering Technology students.Like Engineering Science degree earners, Engineering Technology students may test forprofessional engineering licensure in 35 states. Although the procedures in testing for a licensemay vary, Engineering Technology graduates may pursue careers as professional engineers
were evaluated through surveys at the start, mid-pointand end of the program by an external program evaluator. Through these numerous surveys wedocumented student self-assessment of their change in knowledge and skills. After a year in theprogram most students (usually seven out of eight or eight out of eight) reported the programinfluenced their career area and their level of confidence pursuing a career area. Students as acohort dramatically increased their confidence in how to prepare an academic poster, participatein a professional meeting, plan a controlled experiment, engage in an effective mentoringrelationship, find an internship that matched their interests and explore graduate degrees thatinterest them. At the start of the program
. Studentsvalue professors who are approachable, accessible, and have practical experience in the field.They appreciate staff who are helpful with administrative matters and technical support.Networking Opportunities. Students often recognize the importance of networking for theirfuture careers. They appreciate opportunities to interact with industry professionals, attendconferences, participate in internships, and engage with alumni.Flexibility and Adaptability. Given the rapidly evolving nature of technology and engineeringfields, students may value a learning environment that fosters adaptability. This could includeexposure to emerging technologies, cross-disciplinary learning, and a curriculum that can adaptto industry shifts.Safety and Compliance
for graduation. With the advancements in technology, moreflexibility became available for distance learning, which facilitated a more timely delivery of thecourses for the military student population and at the same time started to attract new studentpopulation, in particular returning students, who were at different stages in their careers and intheir lives, and had to balance schedule between work, family, and study. In 1994, ODU investedin satellite technology for course delivery and TELETECHNET was developed in partnershipwith the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) [12]. This facilitated broadcast instructionvia satellite, a form of interactive television. Outgoing audio and video were broadcast viasatellite, and audio from the
Applications ofQuanser® company. After that, the leaders of the academic minor designed their own labpractices and solutions. Hence, the lab practices are aligned to the actual curricula frommechatronics, robotics and mechanics careers; this, to guarantee the versatility of the teachingmaterial.During the first semester of implementation, to test their own control strategies through the labpractices, students used the following products: DC Motor (under both configurations: inertialdisk and inverted pendulum), Aero 2 (using the three systems: 1 DOF, Half quadrotor andhelicopter).On the other hand, considering that engineering education emphasizes technical skills to preparegraduates for the real-world engineering context, during the third period of
Professor in the Computer Science Department at UNC Charlotte, where she also serves as Assistant Director of the Center for Education Innovation & Research. Dr. Rorrer’s scholarship areas include the science of broadening participation in computing, SoBP, which is a recognized domain of critical importance in STEM workforce development and educational programming. Her work has focused on educational programs, outreach and collective impact activities that expand the national pipeline into STEM careers. College student development and Faculty career development are central themes across her body of work. ©American Society for Engineering Education, 2025WIP: Exploring First Generation
educationalopportunities. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2023 2023 ASEE Annual ConferenceIntroductionEngineering education is an essential discipline that endeavors to create a learning environmentcapable of developing engineering skill sets, like problem-solving, logical thinking, etc., [1]. Itenables the development of students’ engineering skills providing real-world applicability totheoretical engineering concepts. Despite the significant role of engineering in preparing studentsfor their future careers, educators have faced multiple challenges because of technologicaladvancements and societal developments [2]. Such challenges are related to being out-paced bynew advances of new
moreformal training prior to the internship [11]. While this desire for more training often emphasizesworkplace or career-ready training, the present study seeks to further examine the reciprocalbenefits of internships in the field of bio-medical engineering, with an emphasis on providingproactive guidance, whether for the university coordinator, the instructor, the students, the sitesupervisor, or all of the above. Ultimately, the goal is to identify, design, and implementinternship experiences that maximize these reciprocal outcomes, regardless of modality.Virtual InternshipsPrior to the pandemic, there were no known studies that has examined how the importantoutcomes and learning objectives of a biomedical engineering technology/clinical
sustainability. The Civil Engineering Technology program at Rochester Instituteof Technology is well poised to incorporate curricular changes that incorporate sustainability andinnovation. This project focused on introducing students in the Civil Engineering TechnologyProgram to sustainability concepts using the EOP framework. Curricular adaptations wereimplemented for two courses: Introduction to Civil Engineering and Structural Steel Design,both in the Civil Engineering Technology Program reaching 102 students. The two pilot coursesserved as examples to incorporate sustainability concepts into other technical courses within theprogram to ensure the students are well-grounded and prepared to be sustainability change agentsin their future careers in the