Integrating an industrial practicum into a graduate embedded software engineering program

This paper describes an innovative approach to combining formal coursework and industrial experience in order to prepare engineering graduates for careers in software development for embedded control systems. As computer control has become predominant for controlling machinery, heavy manufacturing companies, such as General Electric Transportation Systems (GETS), have found an increasing need for engineers who understand real-time control of electric machinery, and can implement quality software for large embedded applications. To meet this need, Gannon University and GETS have developed a two-year integrated program and practicum leading to a Master of Science in Engineering degree with concentration in embedded software engineering (ESE). The GU/GETS program goal is to give the electrical engineering graduate the education and practical experience needed to solve software design and implementation problems for large embedded systems. The eight-year-old program has involved on-site academic mentorship, active industrial involvement in program content, and has shown marked success with its graduates. This paper describes the role of the mentor and details of the industrial practicum.