Craig Johnston’s Post

This is blog #32 as the career guy. And in this blog and the following ones, I will discuss fundamentals to consider in determining the better path to follow concerning technical schools, colleges, and universities. I will embark on my experiences, including my education and working at the University of Calgary. Also, I will incorporate what my guests have shared with me in my podcast regarding this issue from their experiences. In this particular blog, the focus will be on technical schools. The topics I will cover are: the pros and cons of a two-year engineering program, the specifics of a two-year program, apprenticeships and how they work, and continuing education which is sometimes overlooked yet is a great way to experiment. The blog will end with final thoughts in the conclusion. https://lnkd.in/gq6vBpid

Turning a Liner....takes early action. Engineering Insight - first newsletter features the engineering skills shortage, and rightly says this has been a problem for years and is worsening. (Extract below). There has been some recognition and action, like the government's push on Apprenticeships. Real shift has to start earlier. This is my conclusion too, after four decades an engineer, and led to my project to Engineer Everyone. Objective 3 of Engineering Everyone is to introduce simple concepts of engineering (physical science really) to the very young, so that they can relate them to their everyday. https://lnkd.in/ees_Vt_R

Welcome to read my latest publication: The influence of project-based learning on engineering students’ academic and career motivation. 😊 Here is the DOI: https://lnkd.in/gfePJ5Kg.

T-levels; a benefit to both employers and students! "The content is driven by employers’ needs and the course is unique in giving students really good industry insight, with the placement playing an integral role." Find out more about how Leeds Manufacturing Festival businesses are supporting T-level students. ⬇️⬇️ https://loom.ly/J7NU9pc

Although the U.S. is a global leader in aerospace and aviation talent, there is a lag in the number of students, especially underrepresented minorities (URM), attracted to the field. A new program at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering seeks to change that. The Expanded Network for Broader Participation in Aerospace Engineering through Education, Mentoring and Workforce Development (ENBP-AE), will give students the chance for cross-institutional collaboration for senior design projects and undergraduate research opportunities. It will also enable training and workforce development, mentorship and summer internships. ENBP-AE expands the reach of a similar program already in place that is led by Professor Chiang Shih. Carl Moore, a mechanical engineering associate professor and researcher at the nation’s joint college, is part of both programs and is the principal investigator of this effort to increase representation in aerospace research and related disciplines. "To have a lasting impact, we must do two things simultaneously that may, on first consideration, seem contradictory: approach each student with specialized attention while building a general framework that supports all, no matter their needs. ENBP-AE does that. To dismantle systems of disparity, it provides a scaffolding of near-peer mentors, professional development, research and high-touch projects,” said Moore. Learn more about the ENBP-AE program: https://bit.ly/47yyTBR

Spotlight on IEC! "I always thought I'd be good with my hands. When I found out about the pre-apprenticeship program at IEC, I jumped in. After school, I learned the basics of electrical work. Coming from a background as a medical assistant, some doubted my ability to thrive in this field. But I was determined to prove them wrong." At IEC, apprentices get hands-on experience with everything from code welding to basic wiring. The curriculum evolves yearly, ensuring our students gain advanced knowledge and skills. Upon completing the apprenticeship, graduates have a tangible skill set and are credentialed to work in residential, commercial, or industrial industries. Many even secure jobs during their training! "Going out into the field was perfect for me. I love working with my hands, and being an electrician keeps me focused. This trade is essential and ever-changing, meaning I'll never be bored. Job opportunities are endless, turning this job into a lifelong career." Learn more at https://lnkd.in/eq7w2vh

T-levels; a benefit to both employers and students! "The content is driven by employers’ needs and the course is unique in giving students really good industry insight, with the placement playing an integral role." Find out more about how Leeds Manufacturing Festival businesses are supporting T-level students. ⬇️⬇️ https://loom.ly/J7NU9pc

It’s not an easy test! Congratulations Ben and Cody on passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam and earning your Engineering Intern certifications. We are excited for both of you on reaching this major milestone in your career. #theDGLdifference #CivilEngineering #TransportationEngineering #TrafficEngineering #StructuralEngineering #SiteandFacilityDevelopment #ConstructionEngineering #LandSurveying

https://lnkd.in/ebXXd7SV I've had the privilege of developing technology talent over the past 15 years through our efforts at NPower. It was honor for the Caprock team to partner with the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) team to create the Community College Engineering Program (CCEP). CCEP is dedicated to fostering the next generation of diverse engineers by providing essential training and bridging connections between students, institutions, and companies. There's a broad consensus that the current supply of newly trained engineers falls short of meeting the high demand for engineering talent. Skills-based training, internships, and apprenticeships are crucial to addressing this talent gap. It's incredibly rewarding to see individuals like Arial, Griselda, and Erick receive the opportunities they deserve. If you are interested in learning more and supporting ASME through apprenticeships, internships, jobs, or funding, please DM me. https://lnkd.in/e3p6izUM #ASMEFoundation #Engineering #apprenticeships #Equity #CCEP

Check out NOVA IET's latest issue of The Interface!