IEEE and National Science Foundation recent activities in globalization of engineering

Globalization of industry, trade, and the workforce is one of the main characteristics of the 21st century. Universities, companies, organizations and government agencies are adjusting their policies and practices to adapt to this overwhelming reality. IEEE´s values and purpose have always been focused on advancing technology, while striving to maintain highest standards of excellence in its community of practitioners and educators. In recent years, as the geographical boundaries between countries and continents have blurred, it has become increasingly clear that advances in the global sense require a thorough understanding of neighboring cultures and a corresponding development of trust and partnership, even in a competitive environment. The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has initiated and supported numerous activities to foster international collaborations in research and education. This paper briefly discusses IEEE´s and NSF´s recent activities responding to and supporting globalization of engineering. Issues currently under consideration, current challenges, and future expectations will be discussed.