Metallurgical engineers from the Metallurgical Technology Division (MeTD), participated in the Filipinnovation Entrepreneurship Corps (FEC) 5 Training Program (Cohort 2) on January 13-14 and 16-17, 2025, at De La Salle University (DLSU) Laguna and Manila campuses.

The training opened with a virtual orientation on January 11, 2025, followed by a four-day Kickoff Workshop. The workshop focused on Customer Segmentation and preparatory activities for conducting customer interviews, aiming to guide participants in understanding and addressing real-world market demands.

Engrs. Artemio M. Celajes Jr. and Marco Paolo G. Viloria highlighted the program's value in fostering collaboration with industry stakeholders, including technical personnel from Philippine nickel mining companies. These interactions provided a platform to explore the potential commercialization of emerging technologies. The program emphasized aligning research initiatives with customer needs to enhance technology viability and adoption.

The FEC 5 Training was organized by the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), the DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and DLSU. It is a six-week hybrid program designed to equip researchers and professionals with the tools and knowledge to assess the commercial and societal value of innovative technologies.

By bridging the gap between technical research and entrepreneurship, the FEC program empowers participants to translate innovative concepts into practical applications. It serves as a crucial step in ensuring that scientific and technological advancements can address industry challenges and make a meaningful impact.

DLSU School of Innovation and Sustainability Associate Dean Dr. Fides Del Castillo delivering her opening remarks at the FEC 5 Training Program

By: Metallurgical Technology Division