One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role on the Autodesk education team is the chance to support the next generation of designers and engineers as they prepare for the evolving future of work. I have the privilege of building strong relationships with educators who are equipping students with the skills needed for tomorrow's careers.
Over the past five years, I've had the opportunity to collaborate closely with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Howard University. I've led Fusion 360 workshops for students, worked alongside faculty to develop curriculum, and ensured that students make full use of their free access to Autodesk’s professional design software. This partnership has been a rewarding journey filled with innovation and growth.
To further strengthen our collaboration, I’m proud to announce Autodesk’s generous gift of $1 million to Howard University. This is the largest donation ever made to the university’s mechanical engineering department and is intended to help expand its manufacturing and making facilities, as well as enhance services for students. With this unrestricted funding, the university can allocate resources where they are most needed, supporting both current and future students in meaningful ways.
"Howard University is deeply grateful for this significant contribution from Autodesk," said Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, President of Howard University. "Our College of Engineering and Architecture has been producing world-class engineers for over 115 years, and this gift will allow us to further strengthen and expand our support for our talented students."
According to research by Zippia, only 3.1% of mechanical engineers in the U.S. are Black. It’s essential that the workforce reflects the diversity of our society, and by continuing our support for the Mechanical Engineering Department at Howard University, we aim to help increase representation and provide more opportunities for underrepresented groups in engineering.
Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost has long been a champion of Howard University’s work. “Autodesk is committed to helping the next generation prepare for the future of work,†he said. “With our gift, we’re honored to play a role in ensuring Howard students have the tools and resources they need to succeed.â€
John M. M. Anderson, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture, shared his enthusiasm: “Mechanical engineering is evolving rapidly, and HBCUs like Howard are meeting the demand with highly trained engineers. We thank Autodesk for renewing its commitment to our students’ success.â€
Throughout our partnership, the faculty at Howard has embraced collaboration with Autodesk. Nadir Yilmaz, Chair of the Mechanical Engineering Department, has been a key advocate for Autodesk’s contributions. He was one of the first to integrate Fusion 360 into the curriculum and has consistently pushed for the latest technology to benefit his students.
“We are dedicated to training the next generation of engineers at Howard University,†said Nadir Yilmaz. “The value Autodesk places on our program speaks to the quality of education we provide and the achievements of our graduates.â€
Beyond mechanical engineering, Autodesk has also supported other departments at Howard, including Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Through the HBCU Tech Program, students have participated in paid externships, working on real-world projects and gaining valuable experience.
This initiative aligns with Autodesk’s broader efforts to support HBCUs through programs like the HBCU Partnership Challenge and the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, which aim to foster stronger ties between industry and higher education.
Partnering with Howard University has been an incredible experience. Seeing the passion and potential of these students gives me hope for the future of engineering and innovation. Through our continued relationship and this generous gift, we look forward to creating even more opportunities for the next generation of Black engineers.
Learn more about Autodesk’s efforts to support education and the future of work.
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