As a Ph.D. student at Rice University, it’s no doubt that I’m pursuing a challenging and rewarding path of academic and intellectual growth. However, the road to a Ph.D. is long and demanding, and it can be easy to lose sight of your long-term goals amidst the day-to-day demands of coursework, research, and teaching. That's why Rice Center for Engineering Leadership (RCEL) offers courses and programs designed to develop engineering leadership skills in Ph.D. students that can translate beyond the degree. In this article, I will introduce you to RCEL and explain how their courses have impacted me and can benefit you as a Rice University Ph.D. student.
What is RCEL?
RCEL was founded in 2008 with the mission to develop engineering leaders who are equipped to address global challenges and create a positive impact. RCEL offers a range of courses, programs, and events that focus on developing leadership skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. The center's philosophy is based on the belief that leadership is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and refined over time, and they work to provide Rice University students with the tools and resources they need to become effective leaders in their fields and communities.
Why develop technical leadership skills as a Ph.D. student?
As a Ph.D. student, so much of your time is spent developing skills in critical thinking, research, and communication. However, the skills required to be an effective leader are not always the same as those learned in the lab or the library. Leadership skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are essential for success in industry, government, and non-profit sectors, as well as in academic and research environments. By developing these skills, you will be better equipped to navigate the complex challenges of your career and make a positive impact on the world.
What are RCEL courses like?
This past semester I took a course that generally covered Engineering Management & Leadership, but other topics include the Economics of Engineering, Intellectual Property, and Product Development. There are numerous benefits to taking RCEL courses as a Rice University Ph.D. student. First and foremost, these courses will help you to develop the leadership skills that are essential for success in any career and even navigate challenges in your graduate career in coursework, research, and teaching. Additionally, RCEL courses provide an opportunity to collaborate and network with students from other departments and disciplines, and even from other locations! This past semester I was in class with software engineers working in California while still a Ph.D. student in Houston. This diversity of thought can help to broaden your perspective and foster innovation. Finally, RCEL courses are taught by experienced professionals who have a wealth of knowledge and experience in leadership development, which means you will be learning from the best and brightest in the field. Shoutout to Steve Gomez who taught an awesome course this semester!
How do I enroll in RCEL courses?
Enrolling in RCEL courses is easy - simply browse the Rice University course catalog to find a course that interests you. You can register online via Esther just like any other course! Some courses require prerequisites or an application process, so be sure to read the course descriptions carefully before enrolling.
Maximizing your potential with RCEL
In conclusion, RCEL courses and programs offer Rice University Ph.D. students a unique opportunity to develop the leadership skills that are essential for success in any career. By taking RCEL courses, you will be better equipped to navigate the challenges of graduate school and pursue opportunities outside of academia. You will also have the opportunity to collaborate and network with students from other departments and disciplines, which can help to broaden your perspective and foster innovation. I’ve greatly enjoyed my interactions with RCEL, and they have truly changed my perspective on how I view technical problems and leadership.