The answer may lie in their willingness to embrace hands-on experience and tackle challenges head-on. Recent achievements by two Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) students at Virginia Tech—McKinney and Woolsey—demonstrate how this approach translates into real-world success.

McKinney's internship at Boeing and Woolsey's demonstrated leadership in a consulting team showcase the Virginia Tech ISE program's emphasis on transforming theoretical knowledge into practical applications. Eileen Van Aken , a department leader, praised their accomplishments, calling them exemplary representatives of the ISE program and expressing confidence in their future careers.

A Culture of Innovation and Practical Learning

These achievements are no accident. Virginia Tech's ISE department has long prioritized cultivating innovation and risk-taking among its students, encouraging active participation in real-world projects. This educational philosophy—rooted in hands-on experience and problem-solving—gives graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

The department supports this approach through robust internship programs and research opportunities, providing students with platforms to develop and showcase their skills. By fostering collaboration with industry leaders, the program ensures that students gain exposure to current challenges in engineering and business.

Bridging Theory and Practice

The success of Virginia Tech's ISE program underscores a critical lesson for higher education: theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient. True excellence in engineering education requires integrating classroom learning with practical application. The experiences of McKinney and Woolsey exemplify this principle, offering a model for other institutions seeking to prepare students for the demands of modern industry.