GEDC 2017 Niagara Falls, Canada brought together top minds from around the globe to discuss issues of importance. Topics fell under the umbrella of key concepts, from smart systems to bioinnovation to sustainability to engaging local communities to nurturing entrepreneurship and high-tech start-ups. Underlying activities was the drive to address grand challenges facing the world, including climate change, renewable energy, digital transformation and health care. The conference facilitated important discussions about engineering education, research and outreach and how to better prepare for the fourth industrial revolution that will continue to transform our world through digital disruption.