Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and advancing Hispanic students and professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Founded in 1974 by a group of Hispanic engineers in Los Angeles, California, SHPE was established to address the underrepresentation of Hispanics in STEM fields and to serve as role models within the Latino community[1][2].

Mission and Vision

SHPE's mission is to change lives by empowering the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support, and development. The organization's vision is a world where Hispanics are highly valued and influential as leading innovators, scientists, mathematicians, and engineers[3].

Programs and Services

SHPE offers a variety of programs and services to its members, which include:

• SHPE Academics: Supports members in academia.
• SHPE Professionals: Offers leadership strategies for workplace impact.
• SHPE Technology & Innovation: Highlights the latest STEM advancements.
• SHPE K-12: Engages young people in STEM through student-focused programs.
• MentorSHPE: Facilitates lasting relationships among members.
• Noche de Ciencias: Conducts family science nights for K-12 students.
• ScholarSHPE: Provides financial support to students.
• SHPEology: Promotes awareness of Hispanic and Latino inclusion in STEM[1][3].
• InternSHPE: Supports internship experiences at corporate partners[5].

Events

SHPE hosts three major annual events:

1. National Convention: The largest Hispanic STEM conference in the United States, offering career development opportunities and a robust career fair[1][3].
2. National Institute for Leadership Advancement (NILA): Develops leadership skills for newly elected chapter leaders[1].
3. Regional Leadership Development Conferences (RLDC): Trains members to lead in their chapters and communities[1].

Membership and Impact

SHPE boasts over 13,000 members across more than 280 college and university chapters. The organization is part of the 50K Coalition, aiming to produce 50,000 diverse engineering graduates annually by 2025[1][3]. SHPE also collaborates with other organizations to enhance diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.

Leadership and Governance

As a national organization, SHPE is led by key executives who oversee its mission and strategic goals. The organization continuously seeks to improve its operational stability and member satisfaction[3].