Institute of Traffic Telematics: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Michler Presents Current Research at WEEF & GEDC 2026 in Colombia

From September 21 to 25, 2026, the WEEF & GEDC 2026 took place in Colombia—the joint annual meeting of the World Engineering Education Forum (WEEF), the International Federation of Engineering Education Societies (IFEES), and the Global Engineering Deans Council (GEDC). Under this year's forward-looking theme “Engineering Education that Transforms”, the international elite of engineering education gathered on the Caribbean coast. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Michler from the Chair of Information Technology for Traffic Systems (ITVS) traveled to South America to represent our institute's latest research approaches on this global platform.

The high-level conference was held at the Cartagena de Indias Convention Center. This year's symposium focused on pressing global core issues and transformations:

• Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation in education
• Sustainability and environmental responsibility in engineering
• Ethics in technological development
• Peace Engineering as a response to societal challenges

International Expert Audience Shows Great Interest in ITVS Research

A key highlight of the conference participation was the presentation of the conference paper by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Michler titled “From Passive Users to Active Designers: An RL-Driven; Simulation-Grounded Project-Based Learning Framework for Connected Mobility Engineering”.

In his presentation, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michler outlined innovative approaches on how students can be empowered in the era of digital transformation to not only use new technologies passively, but to actively co-develop them as responsible designers. The subsequent discussion round with international colleagues and deans from all over the world underscored the high relevance and pioneering character of the research conducted at the chair.

Special Distinction: Introduction as a New Member

In addition to the academic presentation, the conference held another gratifying milestone for our institute: During the official conference ceremonies, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Michler was formally introduced as a new member of the GEDC (Global Engineering Deans Council). Joining this international body sustainably strengthens the global network of the chair and provides an excellent foundation for future transatlantic cooperation in engineering education.

© @Prof. Michler

Valuable Key Takeaways for Education at the Institute of Traffic Telematics

“The global exchange at WEEF/GEDC offered an excellent opportunity to discuss our approaches with international colleagues,” Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michler concluded upon his return. “The insights and connections gained there are a wonderful asset for our upcoming projects and will also enrich our work with our students.”

We congratulate Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Michler on a successful conference participation as well as his new membership, and we look forward to the momentum this brings to our institute!