University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, United States
CETYS Universidad – Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico
Cultural and Technical Exchanges on Advanced Materials
The University of Northern Texas developed a project focused on cultural and technical exchanges on advanced materials between the U.S. and Mexico. In collaboration with CETYS University in Mexicali, the program aimed to promote student mobility focused on STEM workforce needs. This partnership sought to find a liable workforce that met the common needs from both countries, especially in engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive and heavy duty truck products. Through this grant, nine (9) Mexican students had the opportunity to stay at UNT while five (5) U.S. stayed at CETYS. The original target of 12 CETYS students was not met and only five students were able to attend. Students participated in structured activities focused on technical, cultural and social learning. Furthermore, students shared undergraduate research between the two universities. With this information the participants were able to focus on their specific interest and ultimately discover their role in the global workforce. This project turned out to be a success due to the constant communication between the students and the institutions. Most of the people who participated in this exchange program are still finishing their undergraduate career; however one of them has already been employed in advanced technology.