College of Engineering and Applied Science
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has developed an ambitious growth plan for its College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS), a plan intended to meet an increasing demand for engineering and computer science graduates, according to
CEAS Dean William.
The plan, which was crafted with input from Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher, calls for:
* Dramatically increasing partnerships, and forging new relationships with industry and other postsecondary educational institutions in eastern Wisconsin.
* Doubling the number of faculty at CEAS by 2008, and hiring six "star" faculty with superior records of extramural research funding by 2006.
* Making an $8 million dollar investment over the next 12 years in classroom laboratory resources, and doubling the research, instructional, student and support space.
* Increasing the college’s total student body by 25% by 2006, including all degree levels, and expanding student advising programs.
* Establishing the new Engineering Management master’s degree program.
"This investment in the college is vital if UWM is to provide graduates to fuel the demand for high-tech and engineering jobs already evident in southeastern Wisconsin," says Gregory. "This investment will also allow UWM to provide the work force necessary to attract more economic growth to our area."
In the next decade, an investment of $13.5 million will be made in start-up costs for more faculty and researchers, building research infrastructure, and new initiatives in collaboration with industry and other institutions, says Gregory.
Funding will come from reinvestment or "borrowing" of CEAS research overhead – parts of grant funding that are paid to other divisions within UWM.
Support also is expected to come from regional industries, businesses, and individuals; increases in state funding; and growth in tuition and program revenue over the 10- to 12-year period.
In addition, total extramural research funding is expected to reach $152 million during that time, says Gregory.
As those dollars become available, the "borrowed" grant money from CEAS research overhead will be re-paid to the appropriate campus divisions.
Faculty recruitment will focus on eight areas that were chosen to build on CEAS’s existing strengths and identify what would be the regional priorities. Although the list is still subject to change, the areas of concentration are projected to include:
* biomechanics and bioengineering
* nanoscale science and engineering
* information technology and data security
* environmental science and engineering
* infrastructure assessment and maintenance (of physical systems, roads and buildings)
* power (energy) engineering
* modeling and simulation
* manufacturing.
March 1, 2002 Small Business Times, Milwaukee
