In January 2025, the EuroTeQ Professional Education launched its first two pilot modules at DTU (Technical University of Denmark) and TUM (Technical University of Munich). The pilots aimed to bring together professionals from diverse industries to explore new interdisciplinary approaches to lifelong learning. They focused on Key Enabling and Critical Technologies and their impact on leadership, innovation, and industrial transformation.
DTU Pilot Module: Life Science for Human and Planetary Health
Held from January 27th to 30th, 2025, the program brought together a multicultural group of 22 participants from different backgrounds, including researchers, industrial scientists, and executives. It was designed to explore the convergence of technologies in life sciences, their impact on sustainability and innovation, and the growing importance of biosolutions, the bioeconomy, and sustainable solutions in the industry.
Key Highlights:
- Interdisciplinary Learning Experience: The course was designed to take participants through an interdisciplinary learning experience, focusing on sharing experiences and knowledge across industry and university research. It addressed entrepreneurship, innovation environments, and leadership.
- Life Sciences and Technology: Participants engaged in discussions on how life sciences intersect with AI, automation, and advanced materials, fostering innovation in areas like sustainable food production and biopharmaceuticals.
- Industry Collaboration: The program featured insights from DTU’s research and industrial ecosystem, including contributions from life science departments, DTU Skylab, and incubation programs such as the BioInnovation Institute (BII) and the Alfa Laval Innovation House.
- Leadership and Innovation: Participants reflected on the role of industrial scientists in driving transformational change, with a focus on leadership skills tailored for specialists in science and technology.
Eighty-eight percent of participants found the module highly applicable to their work, valuing its unique blend of research insights, industry perspectives, and entrepreneurial strategies. They also emphasized the importance of networking opportunities, exposure to cutting-edge research, and the structured approach to linking scientific advancements with industry applications.
A participant shared his impressions : “Bringing in so much diverse expertise and seniority in different professions has contributed to many eye-opening moments, which also contributed to discovering convergence and design of environments. The visits to the different incubator environments also contributed a lot to understanding the factors that create innovative environments. However, practicing leadership skills was missing”.
TUM Pilot Module: Applied AI for Technical Innovation
Conducted at the same time, the TUM pilot focused on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in technical innovation. Hosted by the TUM Institute for Lifelong Learning, it attracted executives and professionals from diverse industries, including medical technology, automotive, and digital services.
Key Highlights:
- AI for Business Transformation: Participants explored AI applications in product development, business strategy, and regulatory compliance, with a focus on real-world case studies from leading European companies.
- Leadership and Strategic Thinking: The program emphasized the role of R&D leaders in navigating AI integration and balancing innovation with ethical and regulatory considerations.
Participants found the discussions insightful and appreciated the opportunity to work on real-world AI use cases. Many expressed confidence in applying their newly gained knowledge to assess AI risks and opportunities within their organizations.
Shaping the Future of Lifelong Learning
Both pilot modules provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of executive education. The JEP initiative is pioneering new models of interdisciplinary learning, equipping industrial scientists and business leaders with the tools to harness emerging technologies for sustainable and competitive growth.
As the program continues to develop, the lessons from these pilots will inform future iterations, ensuring that EuroTeQ’s lifelong learning portfolio remains at the forefront of technological and industrial transformation in Europe.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming modules and opportunities to participate!
