A systematic approach to retaining and increasing the number of engineering graduates in order to strengthen a regional economy

Abstract

Fenn Academy is an educational, workforce and economic development program that aims to increase the number of students pursuing and obtaining engineering degrees (Ghorashi, B.). In a partnership that includes high schools, corporations, and Cleveland State University, talent and resources have been pooled to design a continuum of support that begins in high school and continues through college graduation, with participating students called Fenn Scholars. This long-term partnership begins by reaching into partnering high schools in the region and connecting the high school students to university engineering students and faculty as well as industry partners through a customized pre-engineering program. From that point, qualified Fenn Scholars will be offered industry-supported scholarships, course credit transfer, and potentially industry internship opportunities as incentives to consider engineering as a career. For those Fenn Scholars who select to attend the University, they may be able to participate in peer mentoring, industrial internships, and research. Finally, upon graduation, efforts will be made to connect these Fenn Scholars to jobs at area companies.