A delegation from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) visited Chung Yuan Christian University from February 21 to 24, 2025, engaging in in-depth discussions on dual-degree programs, academic collaboration, and industry-academia partnerships. The delegation included UWM Vice Chancellor Andrew Daire, Director of International Affairs Jennifer Gruenewald, Dean of the College of Engineering & Applied Science Brett Peters, Executive Director of the Connected Systems Institute (CSI) Joseph Hamann, and Industrial Engineering Researcher Professor Daikawa Miyagi.
Strengthening Dual-Degree Collaboration and Student Exchange
On the first morning of the visit, Brett Peters met with representatives from Chung Yuan Christian University’s College of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science to discuss scholarship opportunities for dual-degree students. Starting this year, UWM will offer scholarships to students in the program to encourage more participation in cross-border learning. In the afternoon, UWM delegates engaged in discussions with faculty from Chung Yuan’s College of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, exchanging insights on academic collaboration and industry partnerships. The discussions provided a platform for sharing UWM’s engineering development and future vision, sparking new possibilities for international academic cooperation.
International Dual Bachelor’s Program Info Session Attracts Students and Parents
On the second day of the visit, the UWM delegation attended the inaugural Chung Yuan Christian University (CYCU) International Dual Bachelor’s Program Joint Admissions Briefing, hosted by the College of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science at the GIS NTU Convention Center. The event drew 74 high school teachers, parents, and students, eager to learn more about international study opportunities.
During the session, directors of CYCU’s three international programs introduced the university’s global academic offerings. UWM’s director of international affairs and dean of the College of Engineering & Applied Science were also invited to share insights on UWM’s learning resources and support systems for international students. The event concluded with a Q&A session, allowing parents to engage directly with UWM and CYCU faculty, addressing key concerns about studying abroad in the U.S.
CSI Driving AI and Smart Manufacturing Development
During the visit, Joseph Hamann, executive director of UWM’s Connected Systems Institute (CSI), delivered a keynote speech highlighting the institute’s latest advancements. Recently, Microsoft announced a $3.3 billion investment in Wisconsin to build a new data center, with plans to collaborate with UWM CSI in establishing the AI Co-Innovation Lab. By 2030, the lab is expected to provide AI technology support and training for 270 local businesses, including 135 manufacturers, potentially creating over 4,300 jobs and making a significant impact on Wisconsin’s economy and technological growth.
CSI has long been dedicated to smart manufacturing, industrial IoT (IIoT), and digital transformation, driving advancements in automation, data-driven decision-making, and connected systems innovation. With Microsoft’s large-scale investment, CSI’s research and talent development initiatives will further expand, strengthening collaborations with manufacturing, technology sectors, and higher education institutions.
Lai Yu-Kun, director of the UWM international program at the College of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, stated that the visit by the UWM delegation has not only strengthened international collaboration with Chung Yuan Christian University but also laid a solid foundation for future dual-degree programs, industry-academia research, and international exchanges. Moving forward, both institutions will continue to promote academic and industry partnerships, expanding the possibilities for global education and talent development.
