The pursuit of innovative solutions that can be applied to real-world problems is ingrained in the culture of the Wright State University College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS).
As a result of applying that culture applied to developing a knowledgeable and robust workforce for the Dayton region, the college was recently named one of 14 finalists in the Dayton Business Journal’s inaugural Innovation Index Awards. More than 60 organizations were nominated. The college was recognized in the category of Workforce Development, which recognizes organizations that exemplify “a commitment to the future of the workforce in the Dayton Region.” Finalists must also have demonstrated “how their talent development program has helped employees or clients develop talent and succeed at the next level,” according to the awards criteria.
“With the 2013 opening of the Brandeberry Career Development Center, the College of Engineering and Computer Science is developing unprecedented relationships with regional employers,” said CECS Dean Nathan Klingbeil.
Whether it be through traditional recruiting of interns and co-ops, participating in mock interviews, guest speaking at formalized internship seminars or collaborations with faculty on student projects and research, employers enjoy access to the college’s students and faculty like never before.
“The College of Engineering and Computer Science is breaking down traditional barriers to student retention and success,” said Klingbeil. “From its National Model for Engineering Mathematics Education to its complete redesign of the core computer programming sequence based on a student centered active learning environment (SCALE-UP), the college is setting the standard for large-scale implementation of best practices in engineering and computer science education.”
In addition, the 2013 opening of the CECS Student Success Center has placed student retention and success at the forefront of the college’s advancement and development operations, and has paved the way for significant increases in the number, caliber and diversity of engineering and computer science graduates.
The DBJ partnered with the Dayton Development Coalition, whose four key areas for measuring organizations in the region, were the same for the inaugural awards: service to society, workforce development, commercialization and global fluency.
Other finalists named included companies and groups from all different industries, including health care, nonprofits, arts, technology, education and sports business. The awards were designed to select the best individuals, teams and companies who discovered innovative approaches and solutions to fuel the Dayton region’s economic engine.
A panel of area business leaders helped determine the list of finalists and will name the winners. Finalists and winners of the Innovation Index will be honored at an awards dinner June 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the Schuster Center in Downtown Dayton.
“Recognition by the regional business community is a sign that the College of Engineering and Computer Science is making significant steps toward our shared vision for access, affordability and preeminence. But rest assured, we are just getting started,” said Klingbeil.
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