Engineering Mechanics and Mechanical Engineering Programs
(Program Development and Assessment)

The goals of our Engineering Mechanics and Mechanical Engineering Programs are derived in part from the mission of the US Air Force and the US Air Force Academy. To determine whether we are satisfying the goals and requirements of the programs, we use an assessment plan. Thus, the assessment plan used by the Department of Engineering Mechanics at the United States Air Force Academy flows from the USAF mission, USAF/USAFA core values, the mission of USAFA, and the Dean of the Faculty Educational Outcomes.

The USAF mission:

"To defend the United States through control and exploitation of air and space."

USAF/USAFA core values:

Integrity first

Service before self

Excellence in all we do

The USAFA mission:

Inspire and develop outstanding young men and women to become Air Force officers with knowledge, character, and discipline; motivated to lead the world’s greatest aerospace force in service to the nation.

The Dean of the Faculty (DF) Educational Outcomes are:

1. Officers who possess breadth of integrated, fundamental knowledge in the basic sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences; and depth of knowledge in an area of concentration of their choice.

2. Officers who are intellectually curious.

3. Officers who can communicate effectively.

4. Officers who can frame and resolve ill-defined problems.

5. Officers who can work effectively with others.

6. Officers who are independent learners.

7. Officers who can apply their knowledge and skills to the unique tasks of the military profession.

Based on the guidance above, the Department of Engineering Mechanics has developed the following Department Mission Statement:

"Educating Engineers for the Military Profession."

To fulfill this mission, we have established the following Department Goals:
Academics: Provide the best possible engineering education and instill in cadets the motivation necessary to become career Air Force officers.

Work Environment: Provide a work environment that fosters an effective and productive department having members with a high degree of job satisfaction.

Cadet Involvement: Provide opportunities for department members to become involved in aspects of cadet life other than academics.

Professional Development: Assist department members in becoming more effective instructors and prepare each for increased responsibilities through the acquisition of new skills and knowledge.

Learn about Program Operational Goals (POGs)

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