Integration of Engineering Skills and Innovative Technology into Education

The aim of the University of Tartu Institute of Technology’s project is to integrate an expert in ICT, robotics, and engineering into the academic process, combining technical knowledge with entrepreneurial skills.
A recognized professional will be involved in the project to develop a new course and mentor student projects, thereby enhancing cooperation with companies and supporting student internship opportunities. Through this initiative, the University of Tartu seeks to strengthen the link between academia and industry.

Project Objective and Outcomes

Participation in the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Manufacturing and Digital programmes, as well as in the EDIH-AIRE consortium, confirms the institute’s active role in supporting Estonian industrial companies in adopting smart digital solutions, including artificial intelligence and robotics.

As a result, we recognize an urgent need to involve experts in the academic process who have in-depth knowledge and practical experience in information technology, robotics, classical engineering, project management, and collaboration with industry. These specialists should have experience working in various roles and have led integrated projects combining IT, engineering, and innovation. Experience in specific engineering fields—such as wind energy—is especially valuable, as it allows the integration of such specialists into RDI projects within the field of technology education.

Currently, university teaching is largely focused on theoretical knowledge, but lacks practitioners who can share experience in applying that knowledge in business, particularly in ICT and engineering. Involving such experts in teaching—through leading specific courses, supervising student projects, analyzing research and development outcomes, and supporting commercialization—would be of immense value. This would not only enrich the curriculum with practical expertise but also contribute to the creation of future spin-offs by bringing in essential technical competence and entrepreneurial readiness.

The main objective of the project is to involve a professional with extensive knowledge and experience in ICT, robotics, and engineering, combined with strong entrepreneurial competence. We have found an ideal candidate ready to contribute their rich technical background and business experience to our higher education programme, thereby enhancing the curriculum and supporting students' professional development.

As a result of the project, the institute will gain a valuable addition. Together, we plan to create a new course. In addition, the expert will serve as a co-lecturer in at least two existing subjects, providing students with a valuable practical perspective. Their contribution will go beyond lectures and seminars—they will actively advise student projects, addressing both technical details and business or commercialization aspects. This multifaceted approach enables students to acquire truly integrated knowledge needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.

In addition to enriching the academic process, the project aims to expand and deepen cooperation with various companies operating in engineering, ICT, and energy sectors. The expert’s work will help build and strengthen industry links, broaden student internship opportunities, and foster industry-academic collaboration. This step is aimed at ensuring that our master's graduates are even better prepared for practical work and have the necessary connections to launch successful careers.

The project goes beyond short-term goals. With the expertise involved, we also aim to contribute long-term to the development of internship opportunities in the master’s programme and to the advancement of industry relations. This strategic approach allows us not only to improve the existing curriculum but also to broaden the institute’s activities in alignment with the mission of the Faculty of Engineering. Through this, we promote integration between ICT, robotics, and engineering, creating new opportunities for collaboration between students, researchers, and companies.

Intellectual property (IP) and patents generated during the project will, by default, belong to the University of Tartu unless otherwise agreed with specific development partners. Authorship of publications will follow the principles of good research practice.

In summary, the project aims not only to bring top-level technical and entrepreneurial expertise into the academic environment but also to create new opportunities for collaboration, internships, and innovation—ensuring that our students receive the best possible preparation for the future.

Grant amount: €119,123.76

The project kick-off event took place on August 27, 2024, at the University of Tartu Institute of Technology.

As part of the project, the course "Fundamentals of Mechanics (LOTI.05.101)" was developed. More information about the course can be found HERE.