Engineers play a key role
in solving society’s
greatest challenges.
We have an obligation – and a tremendous
opportunity – to improve the quality of life.
Michigan Engineering
2020 Strategic Plan
How can engineers help solve the most significant problems of our day? The Michigan Engineering 2020 strategic plan has found ways to anticipate the global, technological and educational changes ahead – positioning our institution to lead the evolution of 21st-century engineering research and education for the benefit of the common good.
Our people are at the center of our plan. By establishing a framework, we have empowered them to carry it forward. The vision we set has come to life through our three pillars of excellence: research, education and culture.

EVOLVING OUR VISION
We knew from the start that we would need to take on big problems that we alone may be in a position to solve. We would strive to move from “great” to “best” with the humanity of engineering at our core. We would provide some of the solutions the world needs.
Vision
Michigan Engineering aspires to be the world’s preeminent college of engineering serving the common good.

CRAFTING OUR PLAN
We looked at who we are and what we already have. We met with faculty, staff, students, alumni, peers and partners to learn what they believed to be our core strengths – and weaknesses. We analyzed those against the landscape of the globe, identifying where we truly have an impact. With that in mind, we articulated our mission and our core values.
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 University of Michigan College of Engineering community will value:

IDENTIFYING AREAS OF IMPACT
We undertook a gap analysis, which helped us identify areas of emphasis. Our leadership team – composed of deans, department chairs, staff directors and influential faculty from across the College, and incorporating input from industry partners, alumni, members of our Leadership Advisory Board, and other thought leaders – used this information to develop our “strategic pillars.”
Pillars of Excellence
Our focus on these three areas are essential to organizing our work to be forward-thinking and effective in our service to society.