Engineering the Future Workforce by Siemens explores emerging and best practices that are empowering the next generation of engineering talent. The podcast series showcases conversations with leading voices from academia and industry who are committed to improving learners’ digital skillset and mindset to accelerate innovation.
Strengthening Global Talent Pipelines Through Microcredentials and Collaboration with Octavio Heredia of Arizona State University
Access to world-class education is rapidly being redefined, and learners everywhere are demanding flexible, verifiable pathways that keep pace with innovation. In this episode, we’re joined by Octavio Heredia, Director, Global Outreach and Extended Education, Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University, to explore how stackable microcredentials, global partnerships and learning-employment records are shaping the future of engineering education. We discuss how ASU is meeting learners where they are, how industry and academia can co-create scalable solutions, and what it truly means to cultivate lifelong “master learners.”
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction.
02:27 Octavio reflects on witnessing ASU’s transformation over 23 years.
04:43 Microcredentials meet rapidly changing learner and industry needs.
10:25 A microcredential framework improved learner motivation and targeted skill growth.
15:00 Clearer microcredential messaging remains a work in progress.
20:07 Alignment, transparency, and collaboration make hard partnerships worthwhile.
24:33 Fast-changing, complex industries make alignment challenging.
30:01 Learning records aim to empower learners to tell their full skills story.
32:46 The goal to develop master learners equipped to grow and adapt.
Resources Mentioned:
Arizona State University | Website
ASU Microcredential Programs
Trusted Learner Network
ASU Fulton Schools of Engineering
Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.
#EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering
14 Oct 2025
Expanding Quality Assurance and Credentials in Engineering Education with Jessica Silwick, CFO/COO of ABET
Engineering education is evolving fast — and the way we assess skills, validate learning and prepare future talent must evolve with it. In this episode, we’re joined by Jessica Silwick, CFO and COO of ABET, to explore how academic assessment, peer feedback and credential recognition are reshaping pathways into STEM careers. Jessica shares how ABET is setting global standards for quality assurance, why assessment is central to a growth mindset and how microcredentials are changing the landscape of lifelong learning.
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction.
02:07 Jessica discovers her passion for STEM while working with engineers.
04:06 ABET builds quality assurance services and training for evolving STEM needs.
09:11 Siemens chosen as pilot partner for shared commitment to quality education.
14:15 Thoughtful assessment fosters self-reflection, growth and adaptability.
19:09 Continuous feedback and peer review drive innovation and improvement.
22:37 Self and peer assessment build accountability and support growth.
28:37 Microcredentials and essential skills build a growth mindset.
36:59 Credentials expand access to skills and unlock new career opportunities.
Resources Mentioned:
Jessica Silwick
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-silwick-cpa-mba-cae-46935035/
ABET | LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/abet-/
ABET | Website
https://www.abet.org/
Siemens Digital Industries Software
https://www.sw.siemens.com/en-US/
Washington Accord
https://www.internationalengineeringalliance.org/accords/washington-accord
Thanks for listening to “Engineering the Future Workforce.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.
#EngineeringEducation #ElectricalEngineering #MechanicalEngineering
18 Jun 2025
Making Sustainability Core to Engineering Education with Suavi Yildirim of FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg
Graduate Research Assistant Suavi Yildirim shares how immersive technology and sustainable thinking are reshaping engineering education to prepare future engineers for real-world challenges in this interview.
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 21 / 100
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28
Social presence
0
YouTube
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Engagement
32
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