Michigan Engineering
2025 Strategic Planning Process
Our obligation and opportunity
Michigan engineers play a key role in solving society’s greatest challenges. We anticipate the global, technological and educational changes ahead – positioning our institution to lead engineering education and research.
That kind of leadership requires continuous calibration to confront the shifting needs of higher education, industry and society. In early 2025, we began a process to engage our community in a data-informed approach to update our strategic plan.
Key questions
What will it mean for students, peers, industry, the world to “look to Michigan”? For example:
- How will higher ed, national, global, & industry needs shift in the future?
- Do our existing vision, mission and values still fit?
- What do we aspire to achieve, and do we have the space to do it?
- How can we position ourselves to succeed in the next decade?
- What are the capabilities and resources needed to fulfill the plan?
Strategic planning phases
Data gathering
Community engagement and information collection, including:
- Community-wide survey
- In-person & virtual focus groups
Jan – Mar
Qualitative analysis
Analysis and synthesis of input, including:
- Key forces shaping the future
- Possible vision elements
- Potential barriers to success
- Critical questions to be addressed
Apr
Concept teams
Form community teams around high-level goal areas to define:
- Outcome-oriented goals
- Objectives
- Strategic actions
- Operational needs
May – Jun
Plan development
Translate concept team strategies into signature moves with strategic intent:
- Launch key initiatives
- Enable a feedback loop
Jul – Aug +
Ways to participate
Our strategic planning process began with a community survey, followed by a series of focus groups.
Through this input, a number of key themes have emerged that will guide our planning process. Moving forward, the College will establish concept teams to further refine these themes and develop targeted strategies to achieve our objectives.
If you have additional thoughts or questions, please email [email protected].
Our current vision, mission & values
Vision
We aspire to be the world’s preeminent college of engineering serving the common good.
Mission
Michigan Engineering provides scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world. We seek to improve the quality of life by developing intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, creating collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promoting an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.
Values
In pursuing our vision and mission, members of the Michigan Engineering community will value:
Leadership & excellence
True to being “Leaders and Best,” we do not settle. We forge paths that inspire others, and push relentlessly for quality and preeminence in all we do.
Creativity, innovation and daring
“We’ve always done it this way” is never how we do it. We seek to improve the quality of life. Bold thinking and non-traditional action are among the tools we rely on to solve problems and create opportunities.
Diversity, equity & social impact
The best mix of talent achieves the greatest outcomes. People with different skills, backgrounds, identities and perspectives are necessary for us to realize our vision. Opportunities are created for all, and where barriers exist, we close the gaps. Our entire community should be heard and empowered.
Collegiality & collaboration
Camaraderie is a strength. When we disagree, we remain civil. We succeed in facing complex challenges by working together — across the lab, classroom or globe. We cannot fulfill our potential unless we are combining our strengths.
Transparency & trustworthiness
A consistent respect for truth nurtures good relationships. We depend on open and honest sharing of data, facts and perspectives. In difficult situations where sensitivity is required, we respect the limits of what can be shared. Trust must be preserved.