Designing an AI and Machine Learning Program for Engineers in All Fields

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are reshaping every industry, from healthcare and finance to law, manufacturing, and beyond. Engineers and professionals who can apply these tools and communicate their value across disciplines are in high demand.

At UIC, the Online Master of Engineering (MEng) with a concentration in AI and Machine Learning prepares students to meet this challenge. The program is led by Dr. Carmen Lilley, associate professor of mechanical and industrial engineering, director of the MEng program, and 2025-26 Fulbright U.S. Scholar recipient. A member of the UIC faculty for more than 20 years, she collaborated with AI and business experts, along with instructional designers, to bring the program online. The result is a forward-looking degree built to keep pace with rapid AI innovation.

With a PhD in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Dr. Lilley’s path to engineering began early. Inspired by science fiction and her admiration for astronauts as “elite scientists,” she discovered her calling in science and engineering. Today, she pairs her leadership in research and teaching with a strong commitment to supporting students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. “A big part of my role,” she explains, “is making sure the program is accessible and relevant, whether you’re a computer scientist, medical doctor, or even working in a field like law or finance.”

Why AI and Machine Learning Matter Across Industries

Dr. Lilley’s research has always crossed boundaries from working with physicists and material scientists to collaborating with engineers who turn theory into practical solutions. “I’ve always loved experimental work, but I also appreciate the importance of theory and computational modeling. It’s not about one area of expertise. It’s about understanding the different kinds of expertise needed to answer important questions.”

That interdisciplinary mindset shapes the MEng degree. “AI is everywhere. It’s not just in computer science; it’s in medicine, law, business, finance, and beyond. This degree isn’t only about technical skills. It’s about learning how to apply those skills to solve problems in your field and communicating across disciplines so you can actually make an impact.”

She adds, “The curriculum we provide is designed to address the career aspirations of the students. It engages them in understanding the value of the program and how it relates to their interests or pursuits, whether they’re looking to enhance existing skills or pivot into new areas.”

Key Skills Students Gain in UIC’s Master of Engineering Program

When asked about the most essential skills students develop, Dr. Lilley emphasizes two core areas: a broad understanding of AI and the ability to think critically about its application.

“People often think of AI only as generative AI models, because that’s what they interact with most. But AI is extensive. Machine learning, for example, is a subset driving developments in finance, health sciences, and engineering. I’ve used it in my own work in materials science projects. At its core, machine learning is about using large datasets to predict outcomes, but predictions can be misleading if the limitations of the methods are not understood.”

She explains that the program helps students build technical and critical thinking skills. “You need to understand the breadth of what AI includes, but also develop the ability to ask: Is this the right tool? Am I getting the full picture? Are the results accurate, or are they skewed because of the data? Am I missing something? These skills are essential because when students move into leadership roles, they’ll need to know how to use AI tools and evaluate and apply them responsibly.”

Dr. Lilley adds that the program also emphasizes leadership and professional skills that employers value. “A lot of companies are looking for graduates with a wide range of abilities, not just technical expertise, but also leadership, collaboration, communication, and project management. These are all key skills that students have the opportunity to develop as part of the MEng curriculum.”

Supporting Engineers and Professionals from All Backgrounds

Dr. Lilley sees her role as ensuring the MEng degree is accessible and supportive for students from nontraditional or interdisciplinary paths. “Many people interested in AI and ML are not traditional computer scientists. They’re people who recognize that AI tools are shaping their industries, and they want to be part of that. I want those students to feel like this program is designed for them, too.”

“We don’t want students to stumble early on, especially if they come in without a deep math background. That’s why our team has been exploring ways to better support students from other industries as they transition into AI and ML. One idea we’ve been considering is a preparatory math course to help build the foundation needed for success. As the director, I emphasize that my goal is for every student to succeed in their career pathways, and additional preparation could help field-adjacent applicants achieve that success.”

Adapting the Curriculum to an Evolving AI Landscape

“Since launching the program three years ago, we’ve already begun refreshing the curriculum. We’re constantly asking, ‘What’s the latest? What do our students need now to be prepared for where AI and Machine Learning are going?’ It’s an ongoing process, and we’re lucky to have faculty with deep expertise across AI, machine learning, and data science who bring that knowledge directly into the classroom.”

This commitment to evolution ensures students graduate prepared not just for today’s challenges, but for the rapid changes to come. “AI is advancing so quickly that the curriculum can’t stand still. That’s why we’re focused on continuously evaluating and updating. Our graduates should feel confident they’re learning relevant and forward-looking skills.”

Advice for Prospective UIC MEng Students

“I’ve learned a lot from my failures and rejections. It’s easy to only look at your successes, but it’s in the rejections that you really grow. The perspective that I’ve taken is: what can I learn from that moment? One, so I don’t repeat it, but also so I can make things better and succeed the next time. If my grant gets rejected, for example, I ask myself—did I communicate clearly enough? Was my idea as refined as I thought it was? Or maybe it just wasn’t the right project to pursue. Other times, I know it’s the right project, but I haven’t explained it in a compelling or convincing way about why it’s important. In those moments, I have to go back, rethink, and learn how to communicate the impact better. That kind of reflection is invaluable.”

She emphasizes that setbacks can be powerful learning opportunities, and encourages students to embrace them as part of professional growth. “I encourage students to see challenges not as roadblocks, but as opportunities to pivot, refine, or build perseverance. There’s a lot of empathy in the academic world regarding rejection because we’ve all been there, but what you do with the feedback matters most.”

She also encourages students to take an active role in shaping their careers. “I always tell prospective students: don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions. This program is designed to support you, no matter your background, and to help you grow into the professional you want to be.”