Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that its Expedite – Skills for Industry microcredential has received formal recognition from ABET, a global nonprofit quality assurance organization. This recognition marks the first time ABET has acknowledged an industry-issued stand-alone credential, following a pilot phase evaluation. The Expedite – Skills for Industry microcredential is a four-course program designed to provide learners with fundamental knowledge in digital transformation, systems thinking, and industrial innovation.
The recognition by ABET serves as validation for Siemens’ vision to prepare the workforce for future industry demands. The microcredential was launched globally on Coursera earlier in the year and has seen over 300 enrollments in its first month, with continued demand from students, educators, and industry professionals worldwide. ABET’s assessment team reviewed data from a pilot program, which included over 200 students from seven universities, and focused on the microcredential’s structure, intended learning outcomes, and processes for continual quality improvement.
The partnership between Siemens and ABET aims to strengthen pathways for students and professionals to develop competencies aligned with industry requirements, particularly as digital transformation continues to reshape industrial sectors. The focus on microcredentials reflects a growing trend towards flexible, targeted learning to supplement traditional degrees and qualifications. Academic partners involved in the pilot noted increased engagement and perceived value across different student cohorts, with students valuing the broad exposure and career relevance of the microcredential.
The recognition by ABET establishes a precedent for similar initiatives to seek external quality assurance and industry relevance. Siemens’ Senior Director, Future Workforce and Academic Strategy, Dora Smith, stated that the recognition validates the company’s vision for future-ready workforce development and commitment to empowering talent and industry with accessible learning pathways. ABET’s Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Jessica Silwick, commented that the recognition demonstrates ABET’s commitment to evolving its quality assurance processes to meet the changing landscape of education and industry.
The Expedite – Skills for Industry microcredential is designed to support Siemens’ ongoing efforts to enhance digital workforce skills by making industry-aligned knowledge more accessible. The microcredential provides learners with fundamental knowledge in digital transformation, systems thinking, and industrial innovation, and is intended to address gaps between academic training and industry needs. With the recognition by ABET, Siemens’ microcredential has set a new standard for credentialing excellence, and the company is committed to continuing to provide high-quality learning experiences that meet the needs of industry and learners.