BNY (NYSE: BNY), a global financial services company, and Cummins College of Engineering for Women (CCOEW) today announced the launch of ‘’Shakti Alliance,’’ a multi-year initiative designed to help develop the next generation of women technology leaders through investment in AI and engineering education.

Shakti Alliance will focus on experiential learning, applied research, curriculum enrichment and faculty development to equip students and faculty with the skills, knowledge and industry exposure needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world.

The collaboration brings together BNY’s global engineering expertise and experience deploying AI at scale with CCOEW’s academic excellence in technology. It reflects both institution’s shared commitment to nurturing the talent pipeline and imparting practical education and industry perspectives.

The collaboration is expected to explore opportunities across several areas, including:

  • Experiential Learning: Opportunities for students to gain exposure to software engineering, product development and agile delivery practices through projects, mentorship and industry interactions.
  • AI Research Lab: Exploration of potential AI innovation initiatives through a research lab focused on advancing industry-relevant AI applications and academic collaboration.
  • Curriculum Enrichment: Joint curriculum enrichment efforts, potential capstone project opportunities and industry engagement initiatives that connect academic learning with real-world technology and engineering practices.
  • Faculty Development: Opportunities for faculty training, knowledge exchange and engagement with BNY professionals to support the adoption of emerging technologies and modern engineering practices.

“AI is reshaping the skills required to succeed in technology,” said Leigh-Ann Russell, Chief Information Officer and Global Head of Engineering, BNY. “We are proud to connect BNY’s deep industry experience with CCOEW to help students apply classroom education in real-world settings while empowering faculty to advance applied research and modern teaching practices. Together, we are creating pathways for the next generation of women engineers to develop hands-on expertise and lead in an AI-powered world.”

“This collaboration marks an important milestone in the long-standing relationship between CCOEW and BNY,” said Dr. Madhuri Khambete, Principal, Cummins College of Engineering for Women. “By combining our legacy of empowering women in engineering with BNY’s industry expertise, we will create new opportunities for students to develop in-demand skills. We are excited to advance our shared commitment to preparing future-ready talent, fostering innovation, industry readiness and leadership among the next generation of women engineers.”