Clarkson University Launches Digital Transformation Certificate Program Featuring Industry Leaders and Applied Learning

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As industries race to adopt artificial intelligence, automation and data-driven decision-making, Clarkson University is launching a new Digital Transformation Certificate Program designed to prepare professionals and graduate students to lead that change.

The three-course sequence combines project-based learning, direct engagement with industry executives and software certifications to provide practical experience with key concepts such as digital twins, automation and AI. The program is structured to equip students with both strategic insight and hands-on technical skills that translate immediately to the workplace. Siemens will provide content support and guest speakers for the program.

"Digital transformation continues to accelerate across every industry, and success ultimately depends on having a workforce equipped with the right skills," said Dora Smith, senior director of Future Workforce strategy, Siemens Digital Industries Software. "At Siemens, I've seen firsthand how critical it is to bridge the gap between education and real-world application. Clarkson's commitment to expanding applied learning programs like this certificate is an important step toward developing the talent needed to drive meaningful transformation."

"Companies need leaders who can turn digital strategy into real operational results," said Fram Akiki '86, President of Joun Technologies. "This program gives students a clear understanding of the technologies driving transformation and, more importantly, how to apply them to solve real business challenges."

Akiki, who will lead the certificate program, brings more than 35 years of experience in the electronics and semiconductor industry and has held executive leadership roles with IBM, Qualcomm and Siemens.

The certificate begins with Introduction to Digital Transformation, recommended as the first course in the sequence. Students examine business drivers, technology drivers, common benefits and goals, risks and challenges, and high-level solutions, including automation, digital twins and the concept of "shift left." The course features guest speakers and concludes with a final applied project.

The second course, Analytics for Decision Making, focuses on one of digital transformation's most significant outcomes: access to actionable data. Students develop skills in data acquisition, organization and analysis to support informed decision-making. The course includes guest speakers and offers a data science software certification element.

The third component, Applications of Digital Transformation, has been enhanced following the success of Clarkson's recent seminar series. Students pursuing three credits toward the Digital Transformation Certificate or the Master of Science in Engineering Management will complete a two-credit lecture course that provides a deeper, industry-specific exploration of digital solutions, paired with a one-credit seminar series featuring executives and practitioners.

The one-credit seminar series will also be open to the broader community, continuing Clarkson's model used in its semiconductor and energy and utilities programming.

Visit Clarkson's Digital Transformation page for more information.