UTEP launches AR-VR modeling and simulation lab focused on industry

EL PASO, TX – The College of Engineering at the University of Texas at El Paso will establish a concentration in Systems Modeling and Simulation under the Department of Industrial, Manufacturing and Systems Engineering (IMSE) through a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

According to the University, the new degree will enable graduate engineering students to enhance their skills in data analytics, computer simulation, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), as well as have more machine learning in dynamic production and operations systems.

“With this new concentration, UTEP will train students to be more innovative, technologically sound and able to cope with a rapidly changing industrial environment,” said Bill Tseng, professor and chair of the Department of Industrial Manufacturing and Systems Engineering (IMSE) and director of the Manufacturing and Engineering Systems Research Institute.

Tseng said the program will enable graduates to thrive in today’s industrial landscape, where the very nature of work is changing due to technological advances and ever-changing supply chains.

As part of the grant, the IMSE Department will establish a new Systems Innovation with Modeling and Simulation (SIMS) lab to stimulate student interest in practical skills such as big data analysis, simulation model development, 3D model design and AR/VR application development.

In addition, the grant will enable the restructuring of the Industrial Data Analysis and Computer Simulation courses to align them with the project objectives. In addition, two new subjects will be developed such as Machine Learning for System Emulation and AR/VR-based Simulation.

The program is expected to have its first generation of students during the spring semester of 2024, UTEP projected.

Source: MEXICONOW Staff