Fontys and Summa launch new Smart Industry Engineer study programme

First milestone for Digital Industry Boost partnership

The Digital Industry Boost (DIB) partnership, launched in 2023, presents its first major result: a two-year higher professional education programme focused entirely on Smart Industry. The programme was developed by Fontys and Summa, together with regional partners. The first semester will start in February 2026.

This profile will become part of Fontys' existing Associate Degree (AD) in ICT. Within this programme, students can choose the Smart Industry Engineer professional profile from the outset. The programme prepares students for a future in which technology, data and innovation are becoming increasingly important.

For Summa's vocational students, this profile offers a clear and logical transition to higher professional education. They can progress within a continuous learning pathway and, after completing the Ad, may continue their studies in various bachelor's programmes.

Smart technology in practice
In the study programme, students learn how mechanical engineering, ICT, data and production technology come together in modern production environments. They discover how machines, systems and people can work together optimally: from logistics robots in warehouses to sensors that detect malfunctions at an early stage. Students develop skills to make industrial processes smarter, safer and more sustainable. They learn to work with data and artificial intelligence (AI) and understand how software and equipment function together within smart systems. The programme thus responds to the growing demand for employees who can shape and monitor digitisation in industry.

Unique programme
According to Xander Hover, curriculum owner of the Smart Industry programme at Fontys, the professional profile closely matches the needs of companies in the region: "In the provinces of Brabant and Limburg, many companies – from SMEs to large international players – are looking for well-trained employees who can combine technical craftsmanship with digital expertise to optimise modern production systems and complex production chains." Thierry Debertrand, DIB project leader at Summa Techniek, also sees great value for the industry: "The students learn to combine craftsmanship with the latest Smart Industry techniques, enabling them to make a real difference to the industry within a broader systemic framework. The programme offers a unique mix of practical and theoretical skills, enabling students to develop a distinctive profile and build a strong position in the labour market. This makes the programme valuable for both students and companies."

Focus on data, AI and security
An important part of the programme is the responsible and safe application of data and AI, including in industrial automation. Students learn how to improve processes while simultaneously monitoring cyber security and business continuity. They learn how to protect systems against hackers and how to handle data securely. This prepares graduates for a role in modern, digitally connected production systems.
Students learn that, in order to guarantee machine safety, it is essential that the data used is reliable and complete, as well as well secured, so that unintended risks to people are prevented.

About Digital Industry Boost
Digital Industry Boost is a collaboration between six partners, including Fontys and Summa. The partners focus on four key themes: Labour Productivity, Innovation, Lifelong Learning and Collaboration in the ecosystem. The aim is to strengthen knowledge and innovation, accelerate the digitisation of SMEs in the manufacturing industry and prepare the sector for the future.

For more information about the programme, please visit:
https://digitalindustryboost.nl/opleidingsaanbod/voor-studenten/associate-degree-smart-industry/

Photo: The new study programme trains students to become professionals who are ready for the high-tech challenges of tomorrow.

Author: Wim Pleunis