MBSE and SysML v2 at the University of Genoa: an Italian first by ONE-SYS

For the first time in Italy, the System of Systems LAB module at the University of Genoa has given rise to a course dedicated to Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), Systems of Systems and modelling with SysML v2.

This is an important step not only for our country but also for ONE-SYS, which I have the honour of representing as a lecturer on the course, because it brings into the classroom the skills I encounter every day in projects with clients and helps make them accessible to those preparing to enter the world of work.

The programme we have devised with Prof. Sacile begins with the fundamentals of Systems Engineering and then introduces MBSE, its concepts and reference frameworks, with a focus on MagicGrid. The second half of the course is devoted to SysML v2 modelling using a dedicated tool, covering requirements, structure and system behaviour. The module culminates in a modelling project, in which students will apply what they have learnt to a real-world case study.

This practical aspect is central, in my view. Students learn how to represent requirements and functional, logical and physical architectures, using internationally recognised modelling languages and tools. They also learn how to link the elements of the model, maintain its traceability and produce specific reports. These activities demonstrate how a model can help different teams to understand the same design choices and verify their consistency.

For me, this is the highlight of my career so far and, as ONE-SYS’s Training Leader, taking part in – and indeed leading – an initiative of this kind means sharing with the students the experience I have gained over the years in the application of Systems Engineering. It also means contributing to the training of professionals capable of tackling complexity using common methods and languages, whilst also engaging with young minds to hear new questions and perspectives on the practices I use in my day-to-day work.

The value of the course extends beyond the classroom, particularly given my role within the Italian Association of Systems Engineering (AISE). A closer link between universities, businesses and AISE can strengthen the Italian systems engineering ecosystem: graduates acquire the skills required by industry, whilst companies are able to recruit people who are already trained to think in terms of requirements, architectures and traceability, with a solid grounding in both theory and practice.

Being the first in Italy to address these issues is a source of pride, all the more so as it is taking place in my own city, and it is testament to the enormous progress that has enabled ONE-SYS, in such a short space of time, to evolve from a small start-up to delivering university courses. This is not necessarily the end of the road, either personally or for the company, but it represents recognition of the advocacy work we have done and are continuing to do, which will enable us to spread Systems Engineering even further and more widely, and not just within Italy’s borders.

Stay tuned for further developments on these and other topics, but in the meantime, thank you to everyone who has worked to make all this possible.

Federico Terrile,

Training Leader, Quality Manager and Technical Systems Engineer at ONE-SYS