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Access to world-class education is rapidly being redefined, and learners everywhere are demanding flexible, verifiable pathways that keep pace with innovation. In this episode, we’re joined by Octavio Heredia, Director, Global Outreach and Extended Education, Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University, to explore how stackable microcredentials, global partnerships and learning-employment records are shaping the future of engineering education. We discuss how ASU is meeting learners where they are, how industry and academia can co-create scalable solutions, and what it truly means to cultivate lifelong “master learners.” Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:27 Octavio reflects on witnessing ASU’s transformation over 23 years. 04:43 Microcredentials meet rapidly changing learner and industry needs. 10:25 A microcredential framework improved learner motivation and targeted skill growth. 15:00 Clearer microcredential messaging remains a work in progress. 20:07 Alignment, transparency, and collaboration make hard partnerships worthwhile. 24:33 Fast-changing, complex industries make alignment challenging. 30:01 Learning records aim to empower learners to tell their full skills story. 32:46 The goal to develop master learners equipped to grow and adapt. Resources Mentioned: Arizona State University | Website ASU Microcredential Programs Trusted Learner Network ASU Fulton Schools of Engineering Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

Engineering education is evolving fast — and the way we assess skills, validate learning and prepare future talent must evolve with it. In this episode, we’re joined by Jessica Silwick, CFO and COO of ABET, to explore how academic assessment, peer feedback and credential recognition are reshaping pathways into STEM careers. Jessica shares how ABET is setting global standards for quality assurance, why assessment is central to a growth mindset and how microcredentials are changing the landscape of lifelong learning. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:07 Jessica discovers her passion for STEM while working with engineers. 04:06 ABET builds quality assurance services and training for evolving STEM needs. 09:11 Siemens chosen as pilot partner for shared commitment to quality education. 14:15 Thoughtful assessment fosters self-reflection, growth and adaptability. 19:09 Continuous feedback and peer review drive innovation and improvement. 22:37 Self and peer assessment build accountability and support growth. 28:37 Microcredentials and essential skills build a growth mindset. 36:59 Credentials expand access to skills and unlock new career opportunities. Resources Mentioned: Jessica Silwick https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-silwick-cpa-mba-cae-46935035/ ABET⁠ | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/abet-/ ABET | Website https://www.abet.org/ Siemens Digital Industries Software https://www.sw.siemens.com/en-US/ Washington Accord https://www.internationalengineeringalliance.org/accords/washington-accord Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

Blending immersive technology with sustainable thinking can help future engineers tackle real-world challenges from day one. In this episode, we’re joined by Suavi Yildirim, Graduate Research Assistant of Institute FAPS/FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, to explore how immersive engineering tools like VR, XR and digital twins are reshaping sustainable design education. We dive into Suavi’s journey leading the winning team in the Siemens and Sony Immersive Design Challenge and how cross-disciplinary collaboration, mentorship and microcredentials play a role in preparing the next generation of engineers. Key Takeaways: (02:38) Suavi embraced sustainability after learning about the UN development goals. (04:50) Suavi’s winning project tackles EV battery challenges and has a strong B2B use case. (09:47) Immersive tools make sustainable design learning intuitive and accessible. (15:21) Siemens microcredentials embed sustainability through real-world learning. (19:55) Without practical experience, students miss sustainability’s role in engineering. (23:27) What matters most is the journey of constant learning and improvement. (26:17) Stay curious, follow your passion and link your work to real impact. (27:53) Suavi values teamwork, open ideas and engineering with real impact. Resources Mentioned: Suavi Yildirim https://www.linkedin.com/in/suaviyildirim/ Institute FAPS/FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg https://www.linkedin.com/company/faps-fau/ Institute FAPS | Website https://faps.fau.de Siemens NX https://plm.sw.siemens.com/en-US/nx/ Coursera https://www.coursera.org/courseraplus?utm_medium=sem&utm_source=gg&utm_campaign=b2c_apac_x_coursera_ftcof_courseraplus_cx_dr_bau_gg_sem_bd-ex_s2_all_m_hyb_23-12_x&campaignid=20989858741&adgroupid=157016705446&device=c&keyword=coursera&matchtype=e&network=g&devicemodel=&creativeid=696907040395&assetgroupid=&targetid=kwd-36262515261&extensionid=&placement=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20989858741&gbraid=0AAAAADdKX6afEsK2Z2-lUcMCcLkbcBx7C&gclid=Cj0KCQjwuvrBBhDcARIsAKRrkjdB96xeO_OAUkx9Jwqc-ZfqzUqAiGHZnySO1nZbzcvs-WFyqbwUPvAaAqM3EALw_wcB Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

Today’s students aren’t just looking for a degree; they’re looking for an edge in a fast-changing world. Employers, meanwhile, want skills they can see, not just credentials on paper. In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Readey, Professor, Engineering Management, at University of Colorado Boulder, and Christy Bozic, Executive Director, Master of Engineering Management Program, at Duke University. We explore how universities and employers can align more effectively to build a future-ready workforce, starting with skills, sustainability and stackable learning models. Key Takeaways: (02:40) Students must adapt to rapid industry change. (05:08) Academia struggles to match the pace of tech. (08:43) Partnerships close education-industry gaps. (13:17) Siemens embeds sustainability across roles. (18:38) Employers prioritize skill-based hiring. (20:43) Stackable learning supports career mobility. (26:26) Most learners are early-career professionals. (30:14) Peer diversity enriches learning. (45:17) Faculty exchanges strengthen relevance. (50:02) Skills-based education is key to the future of learning. Resources Mentioned: Michael Readey https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-j-readey-16738112/ University of Colorado Boulder https://www.linkedin.com/school/cuboulder/ Christy Bozic https://www.linkedin.com/in/christybozicphd/ Duke University https://www.linkedin.com/school/duke-engineering/ Project Drawdown https://drawdown.org/ Coursera https://www.coursera.org/ ABET https://www.abet.org/ Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

In a competitive job market, continuous learning and industry-recognized credentials are more valuable than ever, and Sophie Overstreet, Learning Consultant, and Hani Qaqish, Advanced Technical Product Manager, both of Siemens Digital Industries Software, know this firsthand. In this episode, they share insights into the evolving landscape of learning, credentials and the role of AI in education and professional development. Key Takeaways: (08:53) University learning often lacks real-world scale and complexity. (09:33) Credentials help shape career paths and boost confidence. (13:52) Siemens’ ambassador program connects students with industry. (18:04) NASA’s L’SPACE Academy bridges education and industry. (21:00) Employers increasingly value industry-specific credentials. (23:21) Certifications set candidates apart in hiring and career growth. (24:11) Men apply with 60% of qualifications; women wait for 90-95%. (32:10) Microcredentials will play a bigger role in workforce development. (37:34) AI speeds up learning and customizes content. (42:54) Universities must rethink workforce training to meet industry demands. Resources Mentioned: Siemens Digital Industries Software NASA L’SPACE Academy Siemens Xcelerator Academy Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.  #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

Engineering education is undergoing a transformation. As technology advances and industries evolve, how do we ensure future engineers are equipped with the right skills? On this episode, we’re joined by Jacqueline El-Sayed, Chief Executive Officer of SAE International. With an extensive background spanning industry, academia and professional societies, she shares insights into the evolving landscape of engineering education, the role of professional organizations and the critical skills engineers need for the future. Key Takeaways: (02:11) Jacqueline’s experience in industry, academia and nonprofits.  (05:44) Digital transformation is reshaping engineering and industry. (06:49) Global connectivity impacts student learning and identity. (09:33) Experiential learning bridges academia and industry. (16:19) Ethics and human judgment remain vital in AI advancements. (18:57) Funding initiatives expand opportunities for minority-serving institutions. (19:58) Postdoctoral fellowships develop future engineering leaders. (23:32) Credentialing ensures education meets industry standards. (31:38) AI personalizes and accelerates online learning. (34:31) Embracing confidence and ignoring self-doubt. Resources Mentioned: Jacqueline El-Sayed - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelineelsayed/ SAE International | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/sae-international/ SAE International | Website - https://www.sae.org ASEE Workforce Summit - https://workforcesummit.asee.org ABET Accreditation - https://www.abet.org Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. Check out the blog recap: AI, ethics and the future of engineering education with Dr. Jacqueline El-Sayed - Siemens Software Podcast Network - https://blogs.sw.siemens.com/podcasts/engineering-the-future-workforce/ai-ethics-future-engineering-education/ To learn more about Siemens' Global Academic and Future Workforce Program, visit: https://sie.ag/PpYAT #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

What’s the key to thriving in a world of constant change? In our inaugural episode, Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA, reveals how lifelong learning and digital innovation are shaping the workforce of tomorrow. Barbara shares insights that inspire action and redefine success. Key Takeaways: (03:16) Curiosity and initiative are essential for lifelong success. (08:21) Early career peer reviews build teamwork and skills for success. (15:28) Digital twins optimize systems, boost sustainability and cut costs. (18:07) Digital tools empower both experienced professionals and new workers. (20:00) Bridging generational gaps creates innovation and collaboration. (24:19) Universities must embrace flexible, lifelong learning models. (31:14) Community colleges are critical for upskilling a diverse workforce. (33:55) Workforce transformation requires partnerships with industry leaders. (39:01) Lifelong learning tools like My Learning World enhance skill-building accessibility. (44:45) Enjoy the journey — learning is a continuous, fun process. Resources Mentioned: Barbara Humpton | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-humpton/ Siemens USA | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/siemens/ George Mason University: https://www.gmu.edu/ University of Colorado Boulder Sustainability Credential: https://www.colorado.edu/ Siemens My Learning World: https://mylearningworld.siemens.com/web/en/login NSF summary: Putting Skills First: A Framework for Action | World Economic Forum: https://www.weforum.org/publications/putting-skills-first-a-framework-for-action/ Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations. #EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering

What if your classroom project involved designing a Formula 1-style car to compete in an international race? In this episode of Innovation in the Classroom, Shannon O'Donnell dives into the thrilling world of Formula SAE, where innovative engineering students push the boundaries of design, performance, and teamwork. Join me as I chat with Hong Wee Lim, the Project Supervisor for the National University of Singapore's (NUS) Formula SAE team.  Every year, his team designs, builds, and races Formula 1-style cars, preparing to compete on the global stage at Michigan's Formula SAE (FSAE) student engineering competition. But behind the thrill of competition lies a relentless cycle of sleepless nights, technical failures, and fierce deadlines as these students face the daunting challenge of turning their designs into race-ready machines. Hong Wee offers a unique glimpse into how the NUS team transforms classroom theories into high-speed reality. From his journey as a mechanical engineer to managing a group of passionate students, Hong Wee Lim shares the highs and lows of leading a project that combines intense technical learning, innovative problem-solving, and the adrenaline rush of motorsports. In This Episode, You Will Learn: What is Formula SAE, and how do students compete internationally (10:00) How do students benefit after they graduate from participating in FSAE? (14:45) The roles of AI, machine learning, and additive manufacturing in FSAE (21:00) How students enhance their people and leadership skills (22:44) How students adopt an innovative mindset (25:15) The application of Siemens software in FSAE (38:10) Connect with  Shannon O'Donnell  Linkedin Hong Wee Lim Website LinkedIn As mentioned in the podcast NUS Formula SAE NUS Engineering Design and Innovation Centre

Hands-on learning is more than just a way to enhance your skills; it's a powerful tool that opens doors to networking, career opportunities, and personal growth. In today’s fast-paced world, where theoretical knowledge alone isn't enough, practical experiences are crucial in shaping a successful future. In this episode of our podcast, Dora Smith interviews two inspiring students, Buket Kurtulus, and Ayman Suhrawardy, to explore the transformative power of experiential learning and its profound impact on their academic and professional journeys. Buket, a master's student in computer science with a focus on machine learning, and Ayman, a biomedical engineering junior, share how internships, research, and participation in innovative programs like the Siemens Student Ambassador Program have fueled their passion and set the stage for their career aspirations. In This Episode, You Will Learn: The Importance of Networking and Internships (5:14) The Siemens Student Ambassador Program (7:05) Campus Ambassador Programs and Events (13:19) Digital Badges and Credentialing Program (15:17) Balancing School, Internships, and Extracurriculars (24:11) Advice for Alumni and Companies (27:03) Resources Mentioned: Siemens Software Student Connect LinkedIn Group Connect with Buket Kurtulus:  LinkedIn Connect with Ayman Suhrawardy LinkedIn

Education across the globe has seen monumental shifts in the last four years, and the field of engineering is no exception. I am your host, Dora Smith. Today we've invited Shannon O'Donnell, who leads global academic engagement at Siemens digital industry software, to help us talk about engineering education in South Korea. Shannon O'Donnell talks to Dr. Yim,  a professor of engineering at Hongik University, and Dr. Donghyuk Shin, an assistant professor at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). In this episode, you will learn about the importance of the Collaboration between academia and industry, and the importance of the Integration of real-world applications and hands-on learning opportunities in the classroom to enhance students' understanding and readiness for the industry. In addition, you will also get to hear about the dynamic nature of engineering education in South Korea, and the importance of continuous adaptation to meet the evolving needs of students and the industry. In this episode, you will learn about: Engineering education in South Korea and global collaborations. (4:43) Engineering education and industry needs. (8:28) Progress in sustainability education in South Korea (18:14) Adapting to technological changes in the classroom. (21:19) Connect with Shannon O'Donnell: LinkedIn Connect with Dora Smith: LinkedIn

Earlier this year, Siemens held the Sustainability Design Hack at their Realize Live 2023 event to address sustainability challenges and encourage college students to come up with creative and impactful solutions to these challenges. The idea behind this Design Hack was to provide students with real-life experience of sustainability challenges within the industry and give them access to mentors and industry experts to help them along the way. In this episode, Shannon O'Donnell interviews two individuals who took part in this challenge: Ava Boley, a fourth-year mechanical engineering student with an aerospace concentration at Michigan State University, and Ricardo Ramirez, a recent electromechanical engineering graduate from Seneca College. They will share with us how the Siemens Sustainability Design Hack tested their problem-solving skills and creativity and offered a unique opportunity to collaborate with industry experts and peers. Through their participation, Ava and Ricardo also share how they have gained practical insights into the complexities of engineering design, particularly in sustainability and the automotive sector.  In This Episode, You Will Learn: Engineering education and problem-solving in the real world (01:54) Sustainability in engineering design (06:44) Collaborations with experts from Siemens and NX (18:25) Industry connections and mentorship at the  Siemens Sustainability Design Hack (21:12) Ava and Ricardo’s Sustainability Design Hack experience and their advice for students (31:27) Connect with Ava Boley: LinkedIn Connect with Ricardo Ramirez: LinkedIn

In the world we live in, the impacts of climate change are becoming more apparent every day. Weather patterns are getting more unpredictable and severe, affecting underserved communities the most. So, what can we do through technology and education to come up with practical and sustainable solutions for these challenges? I am your host, Dora Smith. Today, I am joined by Alberto Martinetti, an associate professor with a background in mining engineering, and Nikola Petrova, a lecturer with experience in educational science and curriculum development. In today's episode, our guests both share their individual motivations for getting involved in the field of Humanitarian Engineering. In this episode, you will learn about the dynamic intersection of education, technology, and sustainability in Humanitarian Engineering. You will also get to hear more about the commitment of Alberto, Nikola, and the University of Twente to educating engineers who are not only technically skilled but also sensitive to the needs of underserved communities. In This Episode, You Will Learn: The role of Education in Humanitarian Engineering (03:11) Developing a new Master's Program in Humanitarian Engineering and Pilot Course (04:14) Student Feedback and Impact (04:23) Challenges and Accreditation of developing a new Master's course (09:23) Siemens' Tech for Sustainability Campaign (14:13) Agribox Concept and How it Helps Combat Issues of Sustainability (16:36) The significance of community engagement, practical learning, and sustainable development in engineering education and humanitarian efforts (19:12) Connect with Alberto Martinetti: LinkedIn Connect with Nikola Petrova: LinkedIn Connect with Dora Smith: LinkedIn

Simulation technology has come a long way in recent years. Once the idea of science fiction stories, today they have become an everyday reality.  Simulation plays an important role in revolutionizing many industries. And the aerospace industry is among the sectors that have benefited from the success of simulation applications to date.  Joining us today is Jonas Edman, business development consultant of Simcenter academic solutions, and Dr. Tom Stoumbos, simulation and test leader at Northrop Grumman, a pioneering company responsible for some of the world's most advanced products. They will share with us the role of simulation technology in aerospace engineering, comparing past, present, and future advancements. They will also help us understand the importance of partnering with academia and other industry partners when it comes to innovation. In this episode you will learn about the comparison of the tech of the past to the tech of today, and also the tech of the future. You will also get to hear about the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and the integration of academia, industry, and government agencies in driving the future of simulation technology and space exploration. In This Episode, You Will Learn: The evolution of simulation technology (2:00) The importance of innovation in industry (10:50) How industry can positively impact academia (18:07) Northrop Grumman and Siemens collaboration (19:33) The future of simulation technology (22:02) Connect with Jonas Edman : LinkedIn Connect with Tom Stoumbos: LinkedIn Northrop Grumman

Change is inevitable! As technology students are exposed to changes, the need to change the teaching approach is becoming stronger. That’s because you want a teaching method that harnesses the skills students are gaining from their interactions with the latest technology.  On the other hand, competition in the industry has forced companies to embrace technology. However, the shortage of personnel who are passionate about technology has been a big challenge. Academia is thus well-positioned to bridge the gap between the many tech-passionate students and the tech-starved industry. In this episode, Dora Smith interviews Tim Simpson, a Paul Morrow Professor of Engineering Design and Manufacturing at the Pennsylvania State University. Tim and his students have worked with a diversified list of hundreds of companies on up to 600 projects. More recent work has ranged from finding ways to preserve the aviation ecosystem. In This Episode, You Will Learn: How evolving technology has changed academia (03:08) What Tim does to stay connected to the industry while in academia (04:08) How academia matches the industry’s quick pace (06:29) Tim's experience collaborating with industry (10:03) Tim’s current work with NASA (16:53) Tim's experience working in academia during the height of the pandemic (23:28) Connect with Tim: LinkedIn PennState

When preparing students for industry, you must have the end goal in mind. You must prepare them for what the industry expects from them and what it takes to succeed and thrive beyond their classes. This can be done by ensuring that students get industry experience while still in school. Industry experience will help them see the value in teamwork, communication skills, and new technologies. Without industry experience, students can easily close their minds to these essential life skills and only focus on good grades. This will make it harder for them to adjust to the industry’s expectations after graduation.  In this episode, Dora Smith interviews Oscar Barton, Jr., the dean of Clarence M. Mitchell, Jr., School of Engineering at Morgan State University. He’ll help us understand what it takes to prepare students for industry. He also discusses the importance of diversity in both academia and industry. In This Episode, You Will Learn: The adjustment Morgan State University made during the COVID pandemic (05:00) The guiding principles that helped Oscar build a positive culture (08:06) How to best prepare students for industry (11:25) How to ensure students are exposed to the latest industry technologies (17:28) What the mechatronics program offered at Morgan State University entails (23:59) Connect with Oscar: LinkedIn Morgan State University Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.