Addressing the importance of preparing the workforce of the future, Utah Tech University hosted more than 130 academicians from eight countries this week as part of the 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit.
The summit, organized through the Global Polytechnic Education Alliance, delved into the acute and growing shortage of technology talent affecting both the tech sector and institutions of higher learning in line with this year’s theme, “Technology Talent: Advancing A Comprehensive and Global Strategy.”
“It’s impossible to overstate the impact technology has on the workforce and society in general,” Utah Tech’s Provost Dr. Michael Lacourse, who hosted the summit, said. “Having the opportunity to discuss how we best prepare future generations with leaders from other renowned polytechnic universities around the globe right here on the Utah Tech University campus is invaluable.”
As part of the alliance’s mission to address distinctive, high-impact opportunities to advance the quality and effectiveness of the polytechnic academic model, the summit facilitated collaboration among practice-based higher education institutions, designed strategies for expanding technology talent globally and created communities of practice to shape the future of polytechnic education.
The summit provided insights into tech and polytechnic education with sessions ranging from California Institute of Technology President Dr. Tom Rosenbaum addressing the growth in technology to Pluralsight Chief People Officer Will Clive sharing a global overview of technological advancements.
In his presentation on governing the ethical future of innovation, Sylvester Johnson, associate vice provost for public interest technology at Virginia Tech University, examined future challenges innovation poses for managing technology to benefit the public interest. He also addressed the pivotal role that the humanities must serve in creating future talent and responsible governance.
Gary Bertoline, senior vice president for Purdue Online and Learning Innovation, addressed the impact the polytechnic model has on society and education, emphasizing the model’s focus on putting classroom lessons into action and making an impact on society.
The summit also provided opportunities to participate in hands-on STEM activities modeled after Utah Tech’s pipeline programs geared at preparing elementary and high school students for college. Additionally, time was set aside for summit attendees to go on economic development tours and explore Utah Tech’s scenic backyard adjacent to Zion National Park in line with Utah Tech’s “active learning. active life.” approach to education, which the university adopted over the last decade as it has transitioned to the polytechnic model featuring a focus on hands-on learning and career preparation.
Since 2009, the Global Polytechnic Summit has been an annual gathering of faculty, staff and leadership at polytechnic and applied science universities in Europe and the United States. As this year’s host, Utah Tech extended invitations to universities worldwide and representatives from institutions from across the U.S., Canada, Europe, Africa and South America attended.
“By hosting the summit, Utah Tech has established ourselves as a leader in the polytechnic education space,” Lacourse said. “This greatly benefits students, as they can earn a high-quality polytechnic education at an affordable price thanks to Utah Tech’s commitment to being open and inclusive.”
To learn more about Utah Tech University’s polytechnic approach to education, which emphasizes career preparation and hands-on learning, visit utahtech.edu/polytech.