FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Next Bold Step Campaign
What is the Next Bold Step Campaign?
The Next Bold Step is a bold initiative by Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) to transform the university’s physical campus, academic programs and student experience. It supports MSOE’s strategic goals through investment in state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Why is MSOE launching this campaign now?
MSOE is at a pivotal moment. As industry evolves and demands new skills, MSOE is responding by equipping students with real-world experience, access to industry mentors and learning environments that mirror today’s most innovative companies.
Who benefits from this campaign?
Students, faculty, industry partners, alumni and the greater Milwaukee community all benefit. The campaign fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration that enhances education and research outcomes.
Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center (EIC)
What is the Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center?
The Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center will be a hub for hands-on, project-based learning. It’s designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, business and computing, connecting students with real industry challenges.
Why is the EIC important?
The EIC is essential for preparing MSOE students to be future-ready. It reflects MSOE’s commitment to experiential learning by giving students access to labs, equipment and collaborative spaces that mirror what they’ll encounter in the workplace.
What will the building include?
The center will feature:
• Interdisciplinary design studios
• Advanced manufacturing labs
• Innovation and prototyping spaces
• Industry-sponsored project areas
• Outdoor sustainability lab
• Collaboration zones for students and faculty
When will the building be completed?
Construction is expected to be complete for the start of the Fall 2027 semester. Updates will be provided regularly as the project progresses.
Dwight and Dian Diercks School of Advanced Computing
What is the Diercks School of Advanced Computing?
The Dwight and Dian Diercks School of Advanced Computing, established through a transformational gift from MSOE Regent and alumnus Dr. Dwight Diercks and his wife Dian, is a leading center for artificial intelligence, computer science and data science education at MSOE.
What makes this school unique?
The Diercks School offers one of the nation’s only undergraduate programs that focuses on the use of applied AI. It combines deep technical education with real-world applications, and provides students access to NVIDIA-powered supercomputing resources.
How does it connect to industry?
Students work directly with corporate partners on cutting-edge projects. The curriculum is built around industry needs, ensuring that graduates are ready to contribute on day one.
How is the Next Bold Step campaign supporting the Diercks School?
The campaign continues to invest in:
• Advanced computing infrastructure
• Faculty recruitment and development
• Student research opportunities
• Program growth and outreach initiatives
