On April 26, 2025, in celebration of Tsinghua University’s 114th Anniversary, the Department of Industrial Engineering hosted a full day of engaging events — including the IE Forum Poster Exhibition, the Alumni Association Executive Council Meeting, class reunions, and the unveiling of the new Advising & Mental Wellness Hub (爱意小屋). A highlight for international students of the day was the Alumni Insights and Career Development Salon, where six distinguished alumni returned to share their career journeys, industry insights, and forward-looking perspectives with current students, sparking meaningful dialogue on leadership, innovation, and global professional growth.

Alumni reunited — sharing stories, inspiring futures, and celebrating 114 years of Tsinghua excellence

The Alumni Insights and Career Development Salon opened with warm introductions, as each alumnus shared reflections on their formative years at Tsinghua and how those experiences shaped their professional journeys. The atmosphere quickly became dynamic, with students actively engaging in interactive Q&A sessions. These exchanges bridged the gap between academic learning and real-world practice, as thoughtful student questions sparked lively, meaningful dialogue.

Interactive discussion session with alumni and students

In one of the highlight sessions, Mr. Jean-Raphael Eid, an alumnus of the IMEM program and now Global Technology Operations Manager at BOSTIK, delivered a compelling presentation on innovations in thermal curing and production processes. He illustrated how advancements in these technologies are driving greater efficiency and sustainability in the adhesives industry. His talk offered students a real-world glimpse into how even traditional sectors are being transformed by technological integration.

Following him, Mr. Rui Kang, a PhD alumnus and now Founder and CEO of Beijing Qianliang Technology, delivered an engaging talk titled "Vertical Large Model-Driven Industrial Intelligence." He shared how AI models designed for specific industrial applications are transforming intelligent operations and driving innovation. His presentation encouraged students to rethink the future of manufacturing in an AI-powered world.

Exploring Industrial Innovation: Insights from Mr. Jean-Raphael Eid and Mr. Rui Kang

The day was more than a gathering—it was a celebration of Industrial Engineering as a living, evolving community. From the warm welcome at the department entrance to the vibrant exchange of ideas during the Alumni Talk and the student research poster exhibition, every moment reflected the spirit of connection, innovation, and shared purpose. As alumni and students looked ahead together, one message came through clearly: IE makes things better—today, and for the future.

Snapshots from a vibrant day of alumni connections and celebration

Writer: Prabina Basnet

Reviewers: Liang Ma, Lefei Li