Winter 2022

NSPE Today
Share the Excitement of Engineering

Engineers Week, founded by NSPE in 1951, is a time to recognize the critical work of engineers, technicians, and technologists. This year’s event (February 20–26) pays tribute to engineers for the new possibilities they create all the time, with the theme “Reimagining the Possible!” From green buildings to fuel-efficient cars to life-saving vaccines, engineers work together to develop new technologies, products and opportunities that change how we live.

Here’s how you can inspire the next generation to become the engineers who turn dreams into reality.

Celebrate

1. Join the social media parade #Eweek2022 #WhatEngineersDo

• Post photos of your team, engineering projects, and even selfies!
• Share a message about engineering’s vital role in innovating solutions to global challenges, the value of engineers, or engaging students in engineering.

2. Host an Engineers Week event.

• It can be as simple as coffee or lunch with a few colleagues to hosting an organization-wide celebration.
• Recognize individuals to honor their achievements—in person, online, or by nominating them for an award.
• Invite an inspiring speaker to deliver a virtual or live talk during Engineers Week.
• Post pictures #Eweek2022 #WhatEngineersDo

3. Advocate for the field.

• Ask your mayor, governor, or congressional representative to issue a proclamation recognizing the contributions of engineers.
• Work with your corporation, society, or college communications team to post a message from leadership.

4. Tell a friend.

• Do your colleagues, friends, and family know about Engineers Week and what your plans are for celebrating? Tell them and let them join in the fun.

Help Build a Student’s STEM Identity

Step 1: Engineering messages to share

Research shows when we share how engineering:

• Makes a difference in people’s lives;
• Is creative; and
• Requires teamwork…
• …we spark girls’ and boys’ interest in the field.

Incorporating these messages into how we talk about engineering to students and adults is critical because when we change how we talk about engineering, we can change what people think about engineering.

Step 2: Engineering design process

As engineers, technicians, and technologists well know, when they set out to solve a problem, their first solution is rarely their best. Explain to students the importance of tinkering, trying different ideas, failing, learning from mistakes, and trying again—the engineering design process. It’s a great way to nurture students’ creative thinking, help them see the benefits of teamwork, and place them at the center of their learning.

Step 3: Leading STEM activities

Leading open-ended STEM activities is a great way to engage students in the engineering design process. Students at Engineers Week and Girl Day events say activities are their favorite thing (they like the snacks too!) and they want to do more.

Step 4: Be a role model

Anyone can be a role model: women, men, engineers, technicians, educators, and parents. Our role models are diverse. But they have one thing in common—the understanding that role models can inspire girls and boys from all communities and backgrounds and grow their interest and appreciation of STEM.

More at https://discovere.org/volunteer.