Director's Message

Bill Robertson is the Program Director of the Internetworking program. (Abriel photo)

The Master of Engineering in Internetworking was introduced in 1997 as the first graduate program in the world dedicated to Internetworking. Since then, more than 250 students have successfully completed the program.

Cisco Systems Inc. of San Jose was the major sponsor of the initiative to offer this specialty professional program at Dalhousie University. MTT, now part of the Aliant Group, was the local sponsor, and the program was located off-campus at TARA, Telecom Applications Research Alliance in Halifax.

The program is an example of industrial liaison at its best. The model that has developed since 1997 is one of a partnership with many players. Industrial partners are invited to provide scholarships, equipment, training and other forms of support to the program. Now in its 10th year of operation, this program provides the best possible environment for education and training for the students. The program is an unmitigated success and is a high priority program at Dalhousie University. The co-location of the Advanced Internetworking Laboratory is a plus for the students as it opens the door to new technologies.

Cisco Systems Inc. remains a major sponsor through their support for the laboratory. Since the outset, Cisco Systems Inc. has also provided scholarships. Nortel Networks donated carrier grade equipment, and scholarships have also been provided.

The program undergoes content tweaking each year based on input from partners and hiring managers. The input and encouragement from industry is essential as is the on-going enthusiasm of instructors.

The most important link is, however, the students. Every effort is made to keep them involved in the program after they leave the university. Hiring companies may participate in the partnership through their hiring managers who can provide invaluable feedback to the program on industrial trends and directions, as well as feedback on the performance of former students. Ties with companies are strengthened through a strong commitment following up with the managers who have hired our students.

The intense workload, the understanding of complex theory and practice requires individuals who are dedicated to high achievement, have a solid work ethic, good personal time management and a burning desire to succeed. These are the qualities of our students, and of course these are the qualities required of employees who will drive a company to success in today’s competitive world.

The strength and success of this program lies with the dedicated academics, technical, and administrative members of the INWK team, the staff in hiring companies and the students who join with us in this venture. I offer my personal thanks to each and every one.

Bill Robertson, Program Director