As an engineer with over a decade of experience, I’ve found that being part of professional associations has significantly contributed to my career growth. I’m a current board member for Vermont Society of Engineers (VSE) and I’m also a member of ACEC, ASCE, and I’ve dabbled with WTS. Being part of an association as a professional isn’t just about networking; there are so many benefits you can get from the member level up to the board level.
Here are six reasons why joining these associations can elevate your career:
1. Networking Opportunities
When I first started my career in 2013, I was encouraged to join local engineering societies. This was initially daunting, but it turned out to be a great way to network. Being part of these associations allowed me to meet and build relationships with other professionals in the field, including potential clients and collaborators. For example, my involvement with VSE helped me connect with members at VTrans, one of my favorite clients to work with.
2. Professional Growth
Being active in professional organizations has been a huge part of my professional development. One of the most significant milestones in my career was being named Young Engineer of the Year, an achievement that required active involvement in these organizations. This recognition not only boosted my confidence but also opened up more opportunities for career advancement.
3. Public Speaking & Leadership Skills
Serving on the board of an association like VSE has helped me hone my public speaking and leadership skills. Whether it’s introducing speakers at events, taking questions, or advocating for specific presentations, these experiences have been invaluable. They have made me more comfortable and effective in professional settings, which is crucial for career growth.
4. Access to Resources & Technical Knowledge
Associations often provide access to resources and technical knowledge that can be directly applied to your work. For instance, through VSE, I attended a presentation about lessons learned on steel fabrication from the VTrans Structures Fabrication Engineer, which I was able to apply to my projects. This kind of knowledge sharing is incredibly beneficial for staying updated with industry standards and technologies.
5. Continuing Education
Many professional associations offer continuing education opportunities, including Professional Development Hours (PDHs), which are essential for maintaining licensure. For example, VSE provides PDHs through their Spotlight series, which covers various technical topics and industry updates. This makes it easier to fulfill continuing education requirements and stay current in the field.
6. Community & Outreach
Being part of an association also allows you to give back to the community and inspire the next generation of engineers. VSE, for example, is involved in outreach programs like MathCounts and E-Week activities, which aim to get young students interested in STEM. This aspect of professional associations is particularly rewarding, as it allows you to make a positive impact beyond your immediate work environment.
Joining and actively participating in engineering associations can provide numerous benefits, from networking and professional growth to continuing education and community outreach. These experiences not only enhance your career but also contribute to the broader engineering community. You may also meet some great clients and friends along the way! Don’t be afraid to join at the member level and see which associations are a good fit for you. (Pro tip: Only join at the board level if you’re willing to do the work!)
