The Community-Engaged College: Grand Valley State University’s Industry and Community Partnership Model

Abstract

The Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Seymour & Esther Padnos College of Engineering & Computing (PCEC) deeply values industry and community partnerships. Our academic programs were developed at the request of, and in collaboration with, industry stakeholders in order to bolster the professional workforce in West Michigan. We are rooted in the local community, working together on innovative methods for student engagement, talent development, and problem-solving. To ensure success, five key avenues through which PCEC engages with community partners were identified: 1) K-12 Pipeline Development, 2) Experiential Education, 3) Applied Research & Development, 4) Talent Recruitment, and 5) Continuous Learning.