UAH signs MOU with Dassault Systèmes to bolster workforce development for high-demand technology and manufacturing sectors

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (DEC. 12, 2024) – The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) will provide its students and faculty with world-class applications for product design, simulation and collaboration through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Dassault Systèmes, a global science and technology company that provides 3D virtual worlds to enable sustainable innovation. UAH is a part of The University of Alabama System.

This agreement will empower students to gain hands-on experience with the engineering solutions most commonly used by businesses across numerous competitive industries, including aerospace, advanced manufacturing and sustainable technology, and ensures UAH graduates will be equipped to solve real-world design challenges. By integrating Dassault Systèmes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform into academic and research programs, UAH students and faculty will expand the university's leadership position as a hub for technological advancement and economic development in North America.

Using Dassault Systèmes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform, more than 350,000 customers of all sizes, across all industries worldwide, can collaborate, imagine and create sustainable innovations that drive meaningful impact. This partnership with UAH aligns with Dassault Systèmes' mission to support education and innovation by equipping the engineers, designers and innovators of the future with cutting-edge applications to excel in competitive industries.

"The collaboration with Dassault Systèmes aligns perfectly with UAH's commitment to provide our students and faculty with tools that enable cutting-edge research and innovation," said Dr. Robert Lindquist, UAH vice president for research and economic development. "This partnership will enhance our students' hands-on experience with leading technologies, ensuring they are industry-ready and equipped to lead in the fields of engineering, aerospace and advanced manufacturing. UAH is located in the heart of Huntsville – a thriving aerospace and engineering ecosystem. This partnership strengthens UAH's role as a hub for technological advancement and economic development in North Alabama and beyond," said Lindquist.

"Our partnership with the University of Alabama Huntsville showcases the ideal alignment of higher education and the private sector," said Bill DeVries, vice president for industry transformation and customer success, North America, Dassault Systèmes. "The skills shortage in our labor force is becoming more evident each year, and by investing in experiential learning today, we're 'future-proofing' our students with the knowledge and know-how to solve tomorrow's challenges. Regardless of their chosen field of expertise, UAH alumni will be ready to hit the ground running on Day 1 of their careers."