University of Nebraska Chancellor Harvey Perlman recently delivered his final state of the university address. The speech gives good insight on the current state of the University, along with where the University could be headed in the future.
Our ears perked up when Perlman made remarks related to STEM Graduates, Engineering and Computer Science:
…Our focus also has to be on the College of Engineering. That college has made real progress during the last three years and implementation of the strategic plan approved by the board of regents is critical not only for the university but for all of Nebraska. For the university, the college should contribute to our enrollment growth and should play an increasingly central role in sustaining our research momentum.
For Nebraska, the production of more engineering graduates is critical for its economic advancement and here we are in competition with every other state — all of whom face a critical shortage of STEM graduates.
Computer science, particularly in software applications, is another field where demand for graduates exceeds supply — and where we are in a unique position to keep Nebraska competitive. We are increasingly well-positioned to do so. Our computer science and engineering department is developing a new software engineering program to respond to industry demand. And we were fortunate to have attracted Steve Cooper from Stanford to build on the extraordinary success of the Raikes School. With active computer education programs both in Lincoln, and at UNO, and the unique capabilities of the Raikes School, we must find ways to respond to the workforce needs of Nebraska companies — needs I should add that are experienced by companies around the world…. ~ UN Chancellor Harvey Perlman
Obviously, STEM graduates are one of many focuses of the University of Nebraska. We would contend that it’s one of the greatest demands of Nebraska’s businesses and employers.
We’re excited to see how the future leadership of University of Nebraska tackles the challenges of our evolving workforce. Their success could determine how economically competitive Nebraska becomes.
Students attended a Columbus Nebraska Robotics open house last week at Central Community College-Columbus. This program introduced area students to VEX Robotics competitions. The program was hosted by the college, Educational Service Unit 7 and Nebraska Public Power District.
