MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS ENGINEERING PROGRAMS IN THE UNIVERSITY

Abstract

AbstractThe systems engineer is the integrator in the process of design and manufacturing of products and services. The wealth generated by the manufacturing systems operating within a society is directly related to the quality of life. It is essential that the infrastructure underlying the wealth generating systems be capable of meeting the demands of our entire society. We are in an era of accelerating change. The education and training of future work forces, as well as the retraining of the present workers, must include interdisciplinary programs producing engineers capable of imparting knowledge integrated from a holistic view, and applying a systems approach to practical solutions. Students of such programs should be a mix of young graduate engineers in classes with seasoned industry experienced engineers sent by their companies for reeducation. Teamwork projects for this diverse group can prepare engineers to think in terms of the principle of concurrent engineering, and for work on project teams which gain strength through the combined talents of the group. Industrial leaders are actively changing traditional hierarchical management styles, and supporting retraining efforts. Meantime, academia must embrace interdisciplinary programs that teach engineering, manufacturing and business concurrently. This approach differs from traditional departmental programs which often focus on specific research. By industry and academia working together the ability to adapt to change will be taught; for change is inevitable and necessary for the future quality of life for our global society.