Day 1

Opening Session and Keynote

Opening Remarks:
• Thomas Costabile, P.E., FASME, Executive Director/CEO
• Kenneth Ball, Ph.D., PE, Dean, College of Engineering and Computing, George Mason University

Keynote Speaker: Tsu-Jae King Liu, Ph.D., President, National Academy of Engineering

Creating a National Movement for Transformational Change in Engineering Education
Engineering bridges science and technology, driving innovation for the benefit of people and society. Today we live in an increasingly technology-dependent world shaped by engineers - and the pace of change is increasing exponentially. This calls for a reexamination of how we educate and empower engineers to advance technology for the long-term welfare of humanity and the planet. In this talk I will share ideas for transforming engineering education, taken from relevant publications of the National Academies, and discuss ways the National Academy of Engineering can promote coordination and foster collaboration to build an engineering workforce that is fit to shape a brighter future for all.

Break

Training A Workforce for 21st Century Manufacturing

Manufacturing remains a national priority as new technologies continue to reshape the landscape. This session explores how engineering programs can adapt curricula, integrate hands-on experiences, and strengthen problem-solving skills to align with evolving industry standards and workforce needs. Attendees will gain insights into effective strategies for boosting student readiness, easing their transition into the workforce, and ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute immediately in dynamic, technology-driven manufacturing environments.

Turning Strategy into Action: What's New, What's Next in Engineering Education at ASME

Speaker: Geraldine Gooding, D.Eng., Director, Engineering Education and Outreach, ASME

Break

Shaping AI in ME Education: A Dialogue between Educators and Students

This panel brings together faculty teaching AI and students studying it to explore how mechanical engineering education can evolve with emerging AI technologies. Discussion will balance student perspectives and expectations with faculty, covering topics such as teaching AI fundamentals, developing AI tools, fostering critical and responsible use, and assessing AI’s impact on learning and professional preparation for future engineering practice.

Break

Address from George Mason University & Annual Survey of ME/MET Departments Report Out

This session will present the findings of departmental benchmarking data for 2025.

Moderator: Leigh McCue-Weil, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, George Mason University

Well-being in Engineering

Break - Exhibitors Open

Subgroup Discussions/Networking

Break

Five @ 5

The Five @ 5 session is a forum for ME and MET department leaders to present on the innovative practices being implemented at their institutions. Topics might include curriculum development, student recruitment/retention, faculty recruitment/retention, faculty development, co-curricular programs, mentoring, and more. Each speaker will have exactly 5 minutes to present. This is an opportunity to showcase successful initiatives, learn from each other, and build community around shared challenges. Must be a registered MEEd attendee to participate.

Moderator: Harish P. Cherukuri, Ph.D., Professor, University of North Carolina Charlotte

GMU Tours

Reserve your spot for the free guided GMU tour by adding one of the two destinations to your conference registration and then meet us onsite near the registration table right after the Five @ 5 session.

Limited spots available