As we step into 2025, I am filled with excitement about the incredible journey ahead for our college. The new year promises to be one of transformation, innovation, and growth – none of which would be possible without the support and dedication of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and industry partners.
A key milestone on the horizon is the groundbreaking of the ECS Innovation Hub, projected for summer 2025. With the approval of the schematic design by our Trustees, we are now on track to create a space that will truly empower our students, foster industry collaboration, and serve as a catalyst for solving global engineering and technological challenges. This facility will provide a world-class learning environment where our students can thrive and engage in hands-on experiences, and where faculty and industry partners can collaborate to drive forward-thinking solutions. We are also working to launch a comprehensive campaign to equip the Hub to its fullest potential, ensuring it supports our academic programs, research, and the evolving demands of the workforce.
The ECS Innovation Hub will play a central role in our efforts, as we align resources, curricula, and collaborative efforts across colleges through engaged learning which includes a focus on curricular, co-curricular and skill-based experiences of our students.
Our vision for a new Cybersecurity Clinic within the Innovation Hub will provide a space where students can apply their skills in real-world scenarios, supporting local businesses and non-profits while developing expertise in this critical field. Alongside this initiative, we are working on an online master’s degree program in Cybersecurity and pursuing accreditation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow, the Hub will be home to cutting-edge research facilities, including a Cyber Range and a student-run Data Center.
We must find a way to bring together academia and industry. Our Corporate Partners continue to be integral to our success, providing not just financial resources but also mentorship and real-world opportunities for our students. Their involvement in senior design projects, internships, and collaborative efforts to advocate for the Innovation Hub is a testament to the impact we are making together. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing commitment to our students and programs.
We are also thrilled to be working on a NASA grant aimed at diversifying the aerospace workforce. This grant, in collaboration with the ECS Innovation Hub, will give our students access to advanced manufacturing, materials labs, and navigation spaces, ensuring that our programs remain relevant and responsive to workforce needs.
Artificial intelligence is another area of tremendous growth, and we are continuously seeking opportunities to incorporate AI into our curriculum, ensuring that our students are prepared for the rapidly evolving tech landscape. In collaboration with the College of Business and Economics, we are leading a campus-wide initiative to establish a Center for AI that will provide space for students from diverse backgrounds to explore and engage with AI technologies. Our faculty are offering an expanding range of AI-focused courses. And, we are collaborating with the University Extension to develop a Certificate Program in AI, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in this fast-paced industry.
Together, we are creating an environment where students, faculty, and industry partners are shaping the future of engineering and technology. With the college in good stead, I have announced my retirement as Dean of the College. Dr. Sang June Oh, Associate Dean, has been appointed Interim Dean of ECS. I will remain involved as a Strategic Advisor to help support the fundraising efforts and oversee the construction process of the Innovation Hub with Dean Oh and the ECS Development team. It has been my honor to build a 37-year career at ECS, and to see the dream of the Innovation Hub come to reality with the Groundbreaking Ceremony held June 4.
I am deeply grateful for the contributions each of you makes to our collective success, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you in the months and years ahead.
Susan Barua
Dean, College of Engineering & Computer Science
