Empowering Upskilling and Lifelong Learning

Dora Smith directs the global education and startup strategies for Siemens Digital Industries Software. The strategic education initiative empowers lifelong learners to create a more innovative sustainable future through access to industrial strength software, industry-aligned learning resources, and an ecosystem of more than 1.5 million students at more than 4,000 institutions worldwide. The strategic startup program empowers entrepreneurs to make an impact on the world through cutting-edge tools and resources to take their innovations from digitalization to realization. Dora serves in academic-industry advisory roles, including chair of the American Society for Engineering Education’s Corporate Member Council and vice president for Diversity and Inclusion on the International Federation of Engineering Education Societies’ executive committee. She is an accredited business communicator with more than 25 years of experience in the engineering and manufacturing industry with leadership roles across disciplines. Dora earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from University of Missouri-Columbia and a master’s in business administration from Washington University.

Shannon O’Donnell is the Global Academic Engagement Lead for Siemens. She is the chair-elect of the College-Industry Partnership Divisions at the American Society for Engineering Education. Shannon’s career in international business and higher education facilitates enriching learning experiences for students and her dedication to education is rooted in her belief that everyone should have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Janelle Simmonds is the Global Academic Enablement Lead for Siemens. She has used her expertise in organizational strategy and communications to positively impact institutions and individuals throughout the course of her career in higher education and the corporate sector. Most recently she led the Partnership Development team at the University of Michigan’s Center for Academic Innovation, and previously served as Chief of Staff to the Office of the Provost at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Prior to her time at Michigan, she spent 12 years overseas, working in international pathways education in the UK and Europe. Janelle also holds an executive coaching certification, and provides consulting and coaching to empower leaders and teams to move toward their goals.