<p><strong><span style="font-size:12pt;">From Struggle to Success: Improving Math Readiness for Engineering and Engineering-Technology Students</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Abstract: Mathematics continues to serve as a critical barrier in the progression of Engineering Technology (ET) students, limiting timely graduation and constraining preparedness for upper-level coursework and professional practice. To better understand this challenge and identify effective solutions, we conducted a survey across several institutions offering Mechanical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) programs. Although the number of responses collected to date is limited, the findings consistently indicate that many incoming students are moderately to significantly underprepared in foundational areas such as algebra, pre-calculus, and calculus, and often struggle to apply mathematical concepts in engineering contexts. Common support structures include tutoring centers, supplemental instruction, and peer mentoring, yet many faculty emphasized the need for more applied engineering-contextualized math instruction. Drawing on survey findings and implementation examples from participating institutions, this paper highlights a few innovative approaches such as modularized and applied math sequences taught by engineering faculty, enhanced coordination with mathematics departments, targeted math bootcamps, and integration of computational tools like MATLAB and Excel. The paper also identifies persistent barriers and proposes practical strategies for reform. By synthesizing empirical insights and best practices, this work will offer a set of actionable guidance for redesigning the math experience in ET programs to improve readiness, retention, and student success.</span><b></b></p>
