Realizing the need of interaction between universities and research groups in industry, in 1986, ten European Mathematical Institutes have founded the European Consortium for Mathematics in Industry (ECMI) with the intention of offering their collective knowledge and expertise to European industry.
The European Community appreciates the exchange of skills and knowledge within ECMI and has strongly supported ECMI through its COMETT, ERASMUS, LEONARDO, SOCRATES, TMR, and HCM programmes.
- To promote the use of mathematical models in industry:
Engineers, applied scientists and mathematicians working in industry can greatly benefit from close collaboration with applied mathematicians from universities with relevant skills and knowledge. On the other hand, working on real-world research projects is a fascinating way of leaving the ivory tower.
- To educate Industrial Mathematicians to meet the growing demand
for such experts:
Within European industry, there is a shortage of industrial mathematicians who are familiar with the latest mathematical ideas and techniques. ECMI teaching centers are providing short courses for this need, in addition to running a joint two-year educational programme on Mathematics for Industry.
- To operate on a European scale:
Special mathematical knowledge and skills are spread all over Europe. Therefore, exchange programmes are necessary in training, research and industrial collaboration.