The Challenge: In aerospace and manufacturing supply chains, managing specifications and quality standards is a complex process. SmartCert, a Wisconsin startup with a small team, turned that challenge into an opportunity. The company set out to rethink how technology could streamline these workflows and build scalable systems in a highly specialized industry.
At the same time, UW–Madison’s School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences (CDIS) was seeking opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience applying AI to solve real-world problems through meaningful university-industry collaboration.
The Solution: Facilitated by the Office of Business Engagement (OBE), SmartCert partnered with UW–Madison’s CDIS program in a Capstone Project that tasked students with designing an in-app AI assistant to operate at the intersection of aerospace, manufacturing, and supply chain technology. This project combined academic theory with real-world industry data, providing students with the opportunity to tackle genuine industry problems in a safe, structured setting.
Implementation:
- Students worked directly with SmartCert engineers and real certification data to understand complex internal workflows.
- The AI assistant design incorporated process mapping, data modeling, and user-interface considerations tailored to aerospace and manufacturing needs.
- SmartCert shared its technical expertise and encouraged experimentation, creating a safe space for student innovation while advancing the company’s goals.
- UW–Madison faculty provided academic guidance to ensure outcomes aligned with both industry relevance and educational rigor.
Impact and Results: Partnering with UW–Madison gave SmartCert direct access to top student talent trained in artificial intelligence, data science, and user experience design. The Capstone format provided a low-risk, high-value environment for exploring new ideas and evaluating future workforce potential.
By collaborating with UW–Madison, SmartCert accelerated its R&D goals without diverting internal resources. Students brought fresh perspectives and technical creativity, producing a working AI prototype that helped SmartCert explore new ways to simplify certification management for aerospace and manufacturing clients.
Looking Ahead: SmartCert’s connection with UW–Madison extends beyond the Capstone Project. Building on the success of this collaboration, the company is exploring additional ways to engage with campus, including thought leadership. As part of this continued involvement, SmartCert leaders Lyndon Lattie and Lonni Kieffer will headline a Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch at the Wisconsin School of Business.
Through partnerships like these, SmartCert strengthens its ties to UW–Madison’s ecosystem of innovation, education, and industry collaboration, demonstrating how Wisconsin businesses and university talent can work together to solve real-world challenges and fuel statewide economic growth.
Is your company interested in collaborating with UW–Madison to drive innovation?