As the interim dean of Florida International University’s College of Engineering and Computing (CEC), I am often asked what the future of engineering looks like. I always respond with an invitation.
“Come visit our college,” I say. “Meet our stellar faculty members and speak with our talented multicultural students. Learn about our groundbreaking, multidisciplinary research endeavors. There are no greater testaments to the pivotal role our college is playing in solving the global challenges of today and tomorrow.”
FIU recognizes that it is an empowering force energizing the world and helping to shape the future. After reviewing our previous strategic plans and evaluating evolutionary trends in higher education, our university recently identified three preliminary pillars: The FIU Experience, Research Excellence, and Mission-Aligned Engagement and Partnerships. It also identified three initial areas of strategic focus: Health; Environment and Environmental Resilience; and Technology and Innovation.
This vision translated to a greater emphasis on multidisciplinary research related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, automation and robotics, resilient infrastructure, and health at our college. Advancement in these critical fields is forecast to propel a global community toward a better, safer, and more sustainable future. These engineering specializations will lead the charge in mapping out the college’s exciting journey toward 2030 and promise to usher in the next era of unparalleled success in our university’s history.
FIU’s commitment to its strategic vision is reflected in the imminent completion of the first of two buildings at Modesto A. Maidique Campus that will expand the institution’s innovative research footprint. Our new 125,000 square-foot, six-story complex is equipped with makerspace labs, active learning classrooms, research laboratories, and collision spaces to invite cross-disciplinary teamwork.
None of this would have been made possible without the support of Florida state and local leaders, FIU’s leadership, our faculty members, our staff, the student body, our alumni, our industry partners, and the community we serve.
I am proud to serve as interim dean of this vibrant college and humbled by its triumphs. I invite you to get to know us as we strive toward excellence, innovation, and growth.
Inés R. Triay
Interim Dean, FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing