Portrait: Barry FallsAs technological change accelerates — with artificial intelligence very likely evolving at a remarkable pace since I wrote this column in March — it is transforming the workplace and demanding new skills across industries. A 2023 Harvard Business Review report revealed that the average half-life of skills is now less than five years, and in some technology fields, it is as short as two and a half years. The need for lifelong learning has never been more important and the need for continuous professional education has never been more urgent. 

Since our founding in 1870, Stevens has responded to pressing needs through innovations in research and education. From seaplane model testing that helped win World War II, to developing resilient infrastructure to combat coastal flooding, our university has consistently risen to address significant challenges. Today, we are expanding our professional education to help “upskill” the workforce both nationally and globally.  

Last spring, Stevens created the College of Professional Education to unify our longstanding partnerships and online programs while creating new initiatives with industry partners. This integration addresses the rapidly changing needs of both employees and organizations. Currently, Stevens offers more than 30 courses in AI spanning various disciplines, including a particularly successful collaboration with our longtime partner Pfizer, helping their employees integrate AI into their work.  

We will enhance our educational offerings with microcredentials — “stackable” credentials through targeted certificate programs that require less time and investment while delivering significant impact. These enable professionals to quickly acquire specific skills needed to advance their careers and contribute to their organization’s success. 

Stevens is now aggressively extending these educational offerings well beyond Castle Point. Through expanding global partnerships with universities and business organizations in Africa, China and Canada, we are sharing our upskilling model worldwide, helping to drive economic growth, create high-value jobs and spark technological innovation that benefits communities around the world. 

Education remains the most powerful tool for transforming lives, communities and nations. Our professional education model and global partnerships will create meaningful opportunities for generations to prosper as we address the talent gap with the same innovative spirit that has distinguished Stevens throughout its history. 

Per aspera ad astra, 

Nariman Farvardin 
President, Stevens Institute of Technology 
[email protected]