Positive destinations of leavers is a key metric for any University. A major aspect in achieving this metric is to successfully develop industry ready graduates, possessing a well-proportioned balance between hands-on simulation/software experience, practical skills and a robust theoretical foundation. Based on Christophe's personal experiences of teaching Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and optimisation techniques to mechanical, automotive and aerospace engineering students, this presentation will discuss some of these metrics in greater detail, including: - The importance of collaboration between academia, industry and software suppliers. - Strategies for software implementation into undergraduate teaching. - Examples of success and perhaps some of lesser successful implementation. - The changing landscape of student expectations and previous experience. - Continuation into taught and research postgraduate studies