EPCC, UTEP Kickoff Engineering Academy, Welcome Inaugural Cohort of Aspiring Engineers
Joint initiative increases Borderland students’ access to an engineering degree
EL PASO, Texas (Oct. 10, 2024) – Today, leaders from The Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é of Texas at El Paso and El Paso Community College (EPCC) officially welcomed the inaugural cohort of students to the newly established EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy. The program will make an engineering degree more accessible to students from the Paso del Norte region. It will do so by offering students the opportunity to enroll concurrently at EPCC and UTEP to begin their engineering education, and later transfer seamlessly to UTEP to complete a bachelor’s degree in civil, industrial, materials, electrical, or mechanical engineering.
Over the past year, the faculty and staff at both institutions have aligned curriculum designed experiences, and scheduled classes so that it is easier for students to start at EPCC and continue their engineering degree at UTEP.
"This innovative collaboration between both of our nationally recognized institutions represents a powerful convergence of vision and expertise. Together, we are creating the EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy which will set new standards for excellence in education and have a transformative impact on our students and community,” EPCC President William Serrata, Ph.D., said. “This partnership not only amplifies our commitment to pioneering innovation in engineering education but also underscores our dedication to shaping future leaders who will drive meaningful change in our world as they graduate and embark on engineering careers.”
“We want to open more pathways for students to earn valuable degrees,” said UTEP President Heather Wilson. “This was a good idea to do something together that neither of us could do alone. I’m grateful for the partnership we enjoy with EPCC and we will build on this.”
The EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy provides a range of benefits designed to support students throughout their academic journey, offering an aligned curriculum that allows students to take advantage of the academic resources at both EPCC and UTEP. With dual enrollment, students will attend classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at EPCC, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays at UTEP, learning from experienced professors at both institutions. This aligned schedule ensures students can manage their academic commitments effectively.
The inaugural cohort of the EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy consists of 13 students.
“I am proud that I get to be a member of the new EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy that creates a new foundation and opportunity — a change that not only helps students, but makes an impact on our community,” said inaugural cohort member Jesus Davila. “Both of my sisters went to these institutions, and every time I visit them, I feel at home.”
Additional program features include specialized admission and support, ensuring that students receive guidance throughout their time in the academy. Students also have access to financial aid, scholarships and grants to help them afford their education. To help students succeed in rigorous courses, math enrichment boot camps are available for those needing preparation in pre-calculus and calculus, along with continued academic support during the program.
"We are thrilled to announce this inaugural cohort of students in the EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy, which marks an innovative new chapter in engineering education for our region,” Rebecca Escamilla, Ph.D., EPCC dean of arts, architecture, math & science said. “By combining the expertise and resources of both institutions, our faculty will create a dynamic, forward-thinking learning experience that will inspire and equip the next generation of engineers to shape a better world.”
Beyond academics, the Engineering Academy emphasizes hands-on learning and career preparation. Students will have opportunities to participate in research, engineering design competitions, and apprenticeships, giving them valuable practical experience. They will also engage in extracurricular activities, building the skills necessary for success in their future careers.
Students in the Engineering Academy are also part of a supportive cohort, allowing them to build strong relationships with their peers. They will interact with faculty and students from both institutions, creating a broad, enriching educational experience. Furthermore, students will develop connections with employers in the engineering industry, enhancing their career readiness.
“We are incredibly excited to launch the EPCC | UTEP Engineering Academy and welcome our inaugural cohort of future engineers,” said Kenith Meissner, Ph.D., dean of the UTEP College of Engineering. “By joining forces, we are paving the way for a new generation of innovators who will drive excellence in engineering.”
For more information or to apply, visit .
About El Paso Community College
EPCC serves nearly 25,000 students and offers 145 degree and certificate programs. Since 1969, the college has remained focused on engaging students, growing community partnerships and fostering excellence. By creating a college-going culture and implementing innovative student success initiatives, EPCC is transforming the pathway to higher education and building a stronger workforce for our region.
About The Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é of Texas at El Paso
The Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é of Texas at El Paso is America’s leading Hispanic-serving university. Located at the westernmost tip of Texas, where three states and two countries converge along the Rio Grande, 84% of our 25,000 students are Hispanic, and more than half are the first in their families to go to college. UTEP offers 170 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs at the only open-access, top-tier research university in America.
Last Updated on October 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM | Originally published October 10, 2024
By MC Staff UTEP Marketing and Communications
