State of the School: Purdue ECE's Year in Review and Future Innovations

In this episode of Engineering Innovations, Kristin Malavenda hosts Dr. Milind Kulkarni, head of Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE). The discussion highlights the past academic year's accomplishments, including record student enrollments, the expansion to Purdue's Indianapolis campus, and groundbreaking student projects like the world record for the fastest robot to solve a Rubik's Cube. The episode also touches on the school's commitment to excellence in both education and research, with notable faculty hires and advancements in key areas such as semiconductors, quantum technology, and AI. Future goals include further integrating the Indianapolis campus, ramping up entrepreneurial efforts, and continuing to invest in facilities and student opportunities. Whether you're a student, alum, faculty, or someone interested in Purdue ECE, this episode offers an inspiring look into the school's present and future.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:20 State of the School Overview 00:53 Achievements and Growth

01:38 Expansion to Indianapolis 03:08 Online Program Excellence

04:44 Innovative Teaching Methods 05:57 Faculty and Research Expansion

08:15 Student Achievements and World Records

14:44 Opportunities for Undergraduates

15:53 Undergraduate Teaching Assistants: Enhancing Learning

16:57 Research Excellence Among Undergraduates

17:37 Transforming Facilities for Better Learning

22:25 Purdue Computes: Leading the Future of Technology

28:31 Looking Ahead: Priorities for the Next Academic Year

31:35 Inspiration and Commitment to Students

33:29 Conclusion and Future Episodes