From the Desk of Dr. Syrmos

Dear MAGE Community,

As we close out another impactful year for Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering, I am filled with pride reflecting on the achievements of our community and the vital role we play in the future of engineering education. The world of technology continues to accelerate, and MAGE remains steadfast in our mission to provide accessible, world-class graduate education that empowers engineers to lead and innovate in this ever-changing global landscape. This year marks a pivotal moment for our curriculum as we formally launched our new and highly anticipated program: Engineering Artificial Intelligence. This cutting-edge program is a direct response to the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence and underscores MAGE's commitment to equipping our students with the advanced skills necessary to shape industries, solve complex challenges, and drive innovation in the most demanding fields. While we are proud of our continued standing as a national leader—ranked #9 in online graduate engineering programs by U.S. News & World Report—our true measure of success is not a single number, but the enduring quality and accessibility of the education we deliver. We continue to offer 19 graduate engineering programs, each taught by expert faculty, providing unparalleled opportunities for deep expertise. MAGE has always been an engine for progress, and that means preparing all talented individuals for the cutting-edge engineering jobs of tomorrow. My hope is that this year MAGE has proven, through our messaging and actions alike, that a high-quality graduate engineering education is available to everyone, regardless of location. Our flexible, online model is specifically designed to support these students—individuals who may not look like the "traditional" engineering graduate but whose dedication, curiosity, and drive are indispensable to the future of the field. By fostering an inclusive environment, we strengthen the engineering workforce and ensure that innovation benefits society as a whole. The growth of our 5,000+ alumni network—an incredible group of leaders and change-makers—demonstrates the lasting impact of the MAGE experience. To our students, alumni, faculty, and staff: your energy, dedication, and achievements are the true fuel for our success. Thank you for being an integral part of the MAGE community. Together, we will continue to build on this strong foundation, leveraging the power of an inclusive education to make a meaningful impact in engineering and beyond.

Sincerely,

Dr. George Syrmos Assistant Dean for Continuing Education A. James Clark School of Engineering University of Maryland