Faculty internship in the telecommunications industry

Excelling in the categories of research, teaching and service in one's area of specialization ultimately results in a new faculty gaining tenure. There are many approaches one can take to satisfy the requirements in any one of these categories. One approach is placement in industry. Industrial placement is a component of life-long learning plan that helps to maintain and expand technological skills. Through industrial placement, one can maintain currency in one's field. Also, the opportunity of research comes up either on a new piece of equipment, or an idea that can be brought to reality that will contribute to the body of knowledge. Gaining expertise in current technology can translate to confidence of the faculty in the classroom, as well as confidence of the students in the faculty member. This paper examines how internship in industry can facilitate activities in the three categories and how these activities will benefit new faculty members. It also discusses the need for new faculty members to get involved in internship early on in their teaching careers.