As we wrap up another remarkable year at the College of Engineering and Computing, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary gifts our community has shared. From groundbreaking research to student innovations, 2024 has been historic for our college.
Before highlighting our achievements, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our Engineering and Computing Panthers, whose dedication drove us to new heights. My sincere appreciation also goes to our industry partners and the community leaders whose support amplifies our impact.
Here are five transformative gifts that shaped our 2024:
1) National Recognition and Preeminence
FIU achieved its highest-ever ranking in the U.S. News and World Report’s Public Universities rankings, breaking into the Top 50 for the first time. Our designation as a Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors brought $25 million in recurring funding to FIU, enabling us to further enhance our research and educational initiatives. Our college also nabbed Top 50 rankings in the Electrical and Electronic Engineering U.S. News and World Report Global Rankings and in the Computer Science/QS World rankings.
2) Global Technology Leadership
Our influence in the tech world expanded significantly this year. One example is Professor Mark Finlayson’s chairing of EMNLP 2024, one of the world’s top AI conferences, where our PhD students connected with global AI leaders. Meanwhile, our presence at eMerge Americas further strengthened our position as a tech innovation hub.
3) Industry-Ready Innovation
The Fall 2024 Senior Design Showcase demonstrated our students’ ability to tackle real-world challenges. Industry partners and recruiters witnessed firsthand how our students transform theoretical knowledge into practical solutions, from sustainable engineering projects to cutting-edge computing applications.
4) AI Education Excellence
Responding to industry demands, we launched our Bachelor’s in Data Science and AI and retooled our MS in Applied AI and IOT, which we expect to reopen next year. These programs combine technical expertise with practical application, preparing students for leadership in the AI-driven economy.
5) Future-Ready Facilities
Our new Innovation Complex will soon transform our capabilities. This 120,000-square-foot facility will house state-of-the-art laboratories, maker spaces, and collaboration areas, embodying our commitment to advancing technology and student success.
We have wrapped up these achievements and more in our 2024 Annual Report. Explore the full story of our year here.
As 2024 ends, we are already excited about the possibilities 2025 holds. Until then, wishing you and yours a joyous holiday season filled with innovation and discovery.
Sincerely,
Inés R. Triay
Interim Dean, FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing