Welcome to GEDC 2013

On behalf of the Global Engineering Deans Council (GEDC), welcome to Chicago, Illinois — City of the Big Shoulders, and the GEDC 2013 Conference!

First, we would like to thank our corporate and university sponsors, hosts, and program and local organizing committee members. We have an exciting conference planned and anticipate very productive sessions for us all.

This year we are focusing on the use of technology in engineering education, faculty roles in directing and focusing this technology, and identifying best practices in developing and implementing digital education so that it becomes more effective and more efficient. The sessions we have planned encompass hybrid/blended distance education and online learning, global research challenges, engineering education in a globalized world, and more. We will also discuss trends in higher education, research, and innovation as they affect engineering education of the future.

As it has been with the four previous conferences, we believe GEDC 2013 will provide an environment and platform for world leaders in engineering education to enhance their partnerships while harnessing their collective experiences, knowledge, and expertise in order to address the issues and challenges that face global and local engineering educators.

Thank you for joining us, and we hope you enjoy GEDC 2013.

Peter Kilpatrick
McCloskey Dean of Engineering, University of Notre Dame
Co-chair of Local Organizing Committee

Hans J. Hoyer
Executive Secretary of GEDC and Secretary General of IFEES
Co-chair of Local Organizing Committee