Enhanced Learning from an Industry—University Partnership

Abstract

For decades, a gap between the discovery of theoretical knowledge and its application in the real world existed within the transition from academia to industry. By collaborating in a course design, development, and delivery partnership, there are many advantages for both industry and students to close this gap. When successful, engineering students are not shocked to find industry expectations which exceed the general knowledge of theory. And industry can be rewarded with a number of returns including potential employees who have modern performance qualities which can help obtain and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace. The authors discuss the objectives and performance of a course in aluminum design manufacturing and technology devised jointly by the Aluminum Company of America (Alcoa) and North Carolina State University.