Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Inc.
History
The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) was founded in Los Angeles, California, in 1974 by a group of engineers employed by the city of Los Angeles. Their objective was to form a national organization of professional engineers to serve as role models in the Hispanic community. The concept of Networking was the key basis for the organization. SHPE quickly established two student chapters to begin the network that would grow to encompass the nation as well as reach countries outside the United States. Today, SHPE enjoys a strong but independent network of professional and student chapters throughout the nation. Now more than 8,500 members strong, SHPE is the largest and most influential National organization for Hispanic professionals and students in engineering, mathematics, and sciences.
Mission
SHPE is the Source for Quality Hispanic Engineers and Technical Talent.
- For the United States, SHPE is the source for the best Hispanic technical workforce who is
committed to maintaining America’s lead in innovation, science and technology. - For students, SHPE is the source for support of academic excellence and mentoring from
kindergarten to graduate school. - For professionals, SHPE is the source for role models, success stories and personal
professional growth for entry-level employees to engineering executives. - For society overall, SHPE is the source for diversity and cultural enrichment with an
orientation toward family, community and creativity.
Strategic Focus Areas
We will fulfill our mission by increasing educational opportunities, promoting professional and personal growth, carry out our social responsibility to be involved in education, business and government issues and enhancing pride within our organization and reinforcing our reputation as a vital Hispanic organization.
Five Development Categories
SHPE accomplishes their mission by setting and achieving goals in five development categories which are:
- Outreach / Community Service
- Leadership Development
- Professional Development
- Academic Development
- Chapter Development
The SHPE Logo
The SHPE Logo is an artist's conception of the evolution of the Hispanic civilization. An ornate and antique "H" (Formed by the inner white areas of Logo) is sound and is the cornerstone of the word "Hispanic". Two worlds identify Europe and the Americas as previous Spanish domains and areas of influence. The dissecting lines indicate the "crossroads" of the world in which we travel. The mosaic designs embellish the true artistry of the Hispanic culture.
San Diego Mesa College SHPE was established in 2008 and has been an active club on campus since. The key focus for this chapter is to use the pooled resources of SHPE Inc. to educate and inspire high school and college students about engineering career options through engineering fairs, demonstrations, design competitions, and community giving. Each semester there is a design competition held in which students fabricate a device that will enable a pilot to walk across the length of a swimming pool. This is an excellent opportunity for students to experience the design process hands-on. San Diego Mesa College SHPE also participates in campus events hosted by the Associated Student Government and the Inter-Club-Council. Members are afforded the opportunity to fund raise and raise awareness about SHPE's presence on campus. During the spring semester, there are scholarship opportunities available strictly to members of SHPE. In previous years, San Diego SHPE Professional chapter has awarded up to $25,000 in scholarships that are only available to SHPE students within the San Diego district. SHPE National Inc. also offers scholarships that are strictly available to members. Aside from scholarships, San Diego SHPE Professional chapter invites students to join them for their monthly meetings that are usually hosted by a major corporation within the local San Diego area. This provides students with an opportunity to work on their professional networking skills, as well as introduces students to possible future employers. To become a member of San Diego Mesa College SHPE, click here now!