The Industrial Engineering Society (IES) had an incredibly productive and impactful 2024 year. Our society focused on engaging with students, faculty, and the broader community to promote industrial engineering and demonstrate its real-world applications. Below is a detailed account of our four main achievements during this semester, along with additional insights that highlight the significance of each activity.
Industrial Forum (LUSTER)
Is an event aimed at introducing industrial engineering by showcasing its different fields, presenting outstanding student projects, and connecting academic outcomes to the job market. The exhibition was officially inaugurated by the Head of the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Department, with the presence of faculty members from the department, adding great significance to the event.
The forum took place on February 19-20, 2024, in the Red Zone opposite the College of Engineering. It attracted many visitors and participants. The event was successfully organized and executed as planned, receiving great engagement and interaction from the audience.
Participation in the Introductory Week
At the start of the semester, the IES actively participated in the university’s Introductory Week, an event designed to welcome new engineering students and introduce them to the various specializations available. We set up an interactive niche where we showcased what industrial engineering entails and why it’s such a dynamic and versatile field.
Our team used visual aids, posters, and hands-on demonstrations to explain concepts like process optimization, supply chain management, and ergonomics. To make the session more engaging, we also shared stories of successful industrial engineers and their contributions to industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Many freshmen expressed interest in learning more about our specialization, and several even approached us afterward to discuss potential career paths. This event not only helped new students understand industrial engineering better but also strengthened our society’s visibility within the engineering department.
Organizing the Final Year Project (FYP) Workshop
One of the highlights of the semester was the organization of a workshop focused on Final Year Projects (FYP). The workshop was led by a senior student who had recently completed their FYP and achieved excellent results. They walked attendees through the entire FYP process, from selecting a topic to submitting the final report.
Key topics included:
• Teamwork: How to effectively collaborate with group members and resolve conflicts.
• Assignment Submission: Tips for meeting deadlines and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Marks Distribution: Understanding how grades are allocated across different components of the project, such as presentations, reports, and prototypes.
The workshop also featured a Q&A session where junior students could ask questions about challenges, they might face during their FYP journey. Attendees left the session feeling more confident and prepared to tackle their own projects. Based on feedback, many found the advice on time management and communication particularly helpful.
Participation in the Specialization Exhibition
The IES participated in the university’s annual Specialization Exhibition, which aims to educate high school students and first- and second-year university students about the diverse fields of engineering. Our booth was designed to provide a comprehensive overview of industrial engineering, focusing on its relevance in everyday life and its potential to solve complex problems.
We used relatable examples, such as optimizing traffic flow in cities or improving productivity in factories, to explain how industrial engineers contribute to society. Interactive models, videos, and infographics were displayed to capture the attention of visitors. Additionally, our members were on hand to answer questions and clarify misconceptions about the field. Several high school
students expressed interest in applying for industrial engineering programs, while younger university students gained a clearer understanding of what the specialization entails.
Representing the College of Engineering at Al-Basira Creativity Group Exhibition
Our most notable achievement this semester was representing the College of Engineering at the Al-Basira Creativity Group exhibition. This prestigious event brought together innovators, researchers, and students from various disciplines to showcase groundbreaking ideas and technologies.
For our exhibit, we presented modern engineering solutions aimed at assisting visually impaired individuals in navigating the university campus safely and independently. Highlights of our display included:
• Smart Navigation Systems: A wearable device equipped with sensors and GPS technology to guide users through indoor and outdoor environments.
• Tactile Maps: 3D-printed maps that allow blind individuals to “feel” the layout of buildings and pathways, making it easier for them to orient themselves.
• Voice-Assisted Guidance: An app integrated with voice commands to provide real-time directions and alerts about obstacles.
These innovations were developed collaboratively by our society members, showcasing the problem-solving skills and creativity inherent to industrial engineering. Our exhibit attracted significant attention from attendees, including university administrators, faculty members, and students. Many praised our efforts for addressing a pressing societal need and demonstrating the positive impact of engineering on people’s lives.
Key Takeaway: This achievement not only highlighted the ingenuity of our society but also reinforced the importance of using engineering knowledge to create inclusive and accessible environments.
The year 2024 was a period of growth and accomplishment for the Industrial Engineering Society. Through our participation in events like the Introductory Week, FYP workshop, Specialization Exhibition, and Al-Basira Creativity Group exhibition, we successfully promoted industrial engineering, educated students, and contributed to the community. Each activity was carefully planned and executed to ensure maximum impact, and the positive feedback we received reflects the hard work and dedication of our members.
Looking ahead, we plan to build on these successes by organizing even more impactful events and continuing to advocate for the value of industrial engineering. We extend our gratitude to all those who supported us throughout the semester, including faculty advisors, fellow students, and external partners.