Expanding the global reach of industrial and systems engineering
Summary
The article discusses the paradox facing Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE): while demand for ISEs is projected to grow faster than other engineering disciplines, contributing trillions of dollars to global economies, the number of undergraduate degrees in the field is precipitously declining. This challenge was the central theme of the author's 2026 IISE Annual Meeting keynote, which proposed a "virtuous cycle" of research innovation, new theory, practical impact, and talent attraction. Examples included papers on evaluating opioid epidemic policies (White and Albert 2025) and siting ballot drop boxes (Schmidt and Albert 2024), which developed an integer programming model. The keynote emphasized the need to communicate ISE's value through compelling stories, leading to the 2025 launch of Industrial and Systems Engineering Day (ISE Day), which engaged participants from 23 countries. The next ISE Day is scheduled for September 14, 2026, aiming to raise awareness and expand global reach.
Key takeaway
For Industrial and Systems Engineers concerned about the field's future talent pipeline, you must actively engage in communicating ISE's profound societal impact. Participate in initiatives like ISE Day on September 14, 2026, and share compelling stories of how ISE solves critical real-world problems, from public health to election logistics. Your efforts are essential to inspiring the next generation and securing the profession's global reach and relevance.
Key insights
Industrial and Systems Engineering faces a talent pipeline risk despite high demand, necessitating better communication of its societal impact.
Principles
- Research innovation drives field expansion.
- Effective communication is crucial for talent.
- Real-world impact attracts new generations.
Method
The proposed "virtuous cycle" involves studying emerging application areas, developing new theory, achieving practical impact, and then broadening the field by attracting new talent.
In practice
- Use integer programming for resource siting.
- Participate in ISE Day events.
- Share ISE impact stories widely.
Topics
- Industrial Engineering
- Systems Engineering
- Talent Pipeline
- Operations Research
- Public Health Applications
- Election Logistics
- ISE Day
Best for: Research Scientist, Policy Maker, Domain Expert
Related on AIssential
Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Laura Albert's Punk Rock Operations Research.