Empowering Future Leaders, Innovators, and Collaborators
By encouraging excellence in technology integration, applied design, and leadership, ATMAE sets the standard for professional development, certification, and accreditation of academic programs. These high standards improve the quality of education and prepare students for professional life.
A Brief History of ATMAE
The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE) has played a vital role in shaping academic and professional standards for disciplines at the intersection of technology, management, and applied engineering, fields that emphasize implementation, systems integration, and workforce readiness in contrast to traditional engineering, which is typically more theory- and research-driven.
Originally founded as the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT) in 1967, the organization was created to support educators, students, and industry professionals in Industrial Technology. This field emerged to bridge the gap between traditional engineering education and real-world industrial practice by focusing on the applied use of engineering principles, technical skills, and operational problem-solving in industrial environments.
As industries evolved and technological advancements reshaped the workforce, the association recognized the need to broaden its focus beyond Industrial Technology. In 2008, NAIT rebranded as ATMAE to better reflect its expanded scope, encompassing the fields of Technology Management, Operations Management, Engineering Management, Applied Engineering, and Engineering Technology, and applied engineering – disciplines that prepare graduates to implement, manage, and lead complex technological systems rather than concentrate solely on theoretical engineering design. This evolution further clarified the distinction between traditional engineering and applied engineering, aligning ATMAE-accredited programs with industry needs and employer expectations.
One of ATMAE’s most significant achievements has been its advocacy for the formal recognition of these disciplines within the U.S. higher education system. ATMAE was instrumental in securing the addition of three new Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes in 2020:
- Applied Engineering (14.0103)
- Applied Engineering Technologies/Technicians (15.0001)
- Science/Technology Management (52.0216)
This milestone marked a turning point in how applied engineering and related fields—distinct from traditional engineering—are classified by the U.S. Department of Education. It strengthened their legitimacy, improved institutional reporting and funding alignment, and increased visibility among students, employers, and policymakers.
ATMAE remains the only CHEA-recognized accreditor of Science/Technology Management and Applied Engineering programs, reinforcing its leadership in defining and advancing these disciplines.
Today, ATMAE is recognized as a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that sets standards for academic program accreditation, professional certification, and workforce development. As a CHEA-recognized accreditor, ATMAE is ensuring that its accreditation standards meet rigorous quality benchmarks.
ATMAE further supports scholarly research and knowledge dissemination through its official publication, The Journal of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (JTMAE). As an online peer-refereed scholarly journal, the JTMAE publishes high-quality research and application-based articles, along with non-refereed informational pieces. Previously known as the Journal of Industrial Technology from 1984 to 2011, JTMAE serves faculty, students, and professionals in technology, technology management, and applied engineering across academia and industry.
Over the decades, ATMAE has grown into a global community of educators, administrators, students, and industry professionals. Its programs and resources—ranging from accreditation and certifications to an annual conference and scholarship opportunities—continue to empower individuals and institutions to thrive in an ever-changing technological landscape.
Through innovation and a steadfast commitment to excellence, ATMAE remains a driving force in shaping the future of technology, management, and applied engineering.
Objectives
ADVANCE
Advance excellence in education through accreditation and industry standards.Advance excellence in education through accreditation and industry standards.
SUPPORT
Support professional development by offering certifications, resources, and networking opportunities for members.Support professional development by offering certifications, resources, and networking opportunities for members.
PROMOTE
Promote research and knowledge-sharing through publications and conferences.Promote research and knowledge-sharing through publications and conferences.
ENHANCE
Enhance visibility and recognition of ATMAE-accredited programs and certified professionals to strengthen industry partnerships.Enhance visibility and recognition of ATMAE-accredited programs and certified professionals to strengthen industry partnerships.
Code of Ethics for ATMAE Leadership
As leaders of ATMAE, we recognize the critical role of our mission in supporting quality education, professional excellence, and organizational development. We commit to the highest ethical and professional standards by agreeing to:
- Uphold the Constitution and Bylaws of the Association and act in the best interests of ATMAE.
- Prioritize the success and integrity of the students, professionals, and institutions we serve.
- Maintain academic and professional integrity by:
- Honestly representing credentials, qualifications, and experience in all official capacities.
- Rejecting all forms of bribery or unethical influence.
- Refraining from false or malicious actions that could harm others’ reputations, careers, or institutions.
- Ensure ATMAE’s Accreditation and Certification programs adhere to the highest standards of quality and accountability.
Violations of this Code of Ethics by any ATMAE leader, at any level, may result in disciplinary action, including expulsion from the Association. We, as ATMAE leaders, are responsible for safeguarding our brand, reputation, membership, and operational integrity to ensure the continued growth and success of academic and professional communities.