In this special episode of Problem Solved LIVE from the IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026, students, researchers, and industry professionals share their perspectives on the evolving future of industrial and systems engineering. Conversations explore artificial intelligence, healthcare systems, sustainability, automation, and the growing role of human-centered problem solving across industries. The episode also features highlights from the IISE Innovation Cup competition, where teams showcased innovative solutions with measurable real-world impact. From first-time conference attendees to experienced professionals leading organizational change, the episode captures the energy, optimism, and innovation shaping the next generation of ISE.
Thanks to all our guests who contributed in this episode!

Thank you to our sponsor, Cullen College of Engineering Lean Six Sigma program.
Learn more at IE.UH.EDU

IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026
May 16–19 | Arlington, Texas

Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
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Problem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth Grimes
Interested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

At the IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026, the future of industrial and systems engineering is on full display, from students attending their very first conference to longtime leaders who have spent decades shaping the profession.

In this special episode of Problem Solved LIVE from Annual, we hear from two recent graduates and student volunteers from Arizona State University as they reflect on networking, personal growth, and discovering the broader impact of industrial engineering beyond the classroom.

We also speak with IISE Medallion Award winner Jaime Rogers, whose nearly 50-year journey with IISE offers perspective on leadership, opportunity, and why the future of ISE has never been brighter.

From first steps to legacy careers, this episode highlights the people, connections, and shared purpose that continue to drive the industrial and systems engineering profession forward.

Follow Problem Solved for more conversations from the people shaping the future of industrial and systems engineering.

IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026
May 16–19 | Arlington, Texas

Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
Problem Solved on LinkedIn
Problem Solved on YouTube
Problem Solved on Instagram
Problem Solved on TikTok

Problem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth Grimes
Interested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

Your 2026 IISE Annual Conference Preview: 3 Voices to Know Before You Go

What makes this year’s IISE Annual Conference and Expo a must-attend event?

In this special preview episode of Problem Solved, we bring you insights from three featured voices who are shaping conversations across industrial and systems engineering:

• Laura Albert (University of Wisconsin–Madison) on why this is a consequential moment for ISE and why it’s time to stop being a “well-kept secret”
• Jennifer Van Buskirk (AT&T) on leading transformation inside one of the world’s most complex systems and how ISEs are uniquely built for it
• Doug Melton (Pre-Conference Workshop, Engineering Unleashed) on developing an entrepreneurial mindset and creating value in any context

From the future of the field, to industry impact, to putting the mindset into action, get your first look at the ideas waiting for you in Arlington.

IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026
May 16–19 | Arlington, Texas

Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
Problem Solved on LinkedIn
Problem Solved on YouTube
Problem Solved on Instagram
Problem Solved on TikTok

Problem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth Grimes
Interested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org