Technology Entrepreneurship: Getting Engineering Students to Take a Leap of Faith
摘要
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, fostering entrepreneurship among engineering students is essential for translating innovation into real-world impact. This paper explores ways in which technology entrepreneurship can be effectively incorporated into engineering education, particularly in traditionally conservative academic environments. Drawing on entrepreneurship theory and innovation management frameworks, the study emphasises the unique challenges of deep tech ventures, which require approaches that go beyond conventional lean startup models. A case study from the Center for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Transformation (CEIT) describes how a Technology Entrepreneurship module was adopted by mechanical engineering students. Using methods such as trend analysis, patent evaluation, and business model design, the module provides students with practical tools to help them identify market opportunities and develop viable business models. The results suggest that contextual learning, supported by real-life examples and urban innovation infrastructure, can foster an entrepreneurial mindset and capability among engineering students. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthening university–industry networks and embedding entrepreneurial thinking in technical education.