Dayton Engineer

Josie Alvarez, mechanical engineering technology student and current president of the UD chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), recently represented SHPE at meetings with government representatives in Congress.

Student, professional and staff representatives from SHPE attended meetings with their local officials in the House of Representatives and Senate to advocate for Hispanics in STEM and increased educational funding to support programs and student scholarships.

“I didn’t think I was really good at politics, but one of my good friends said ‘You should really do this and be an advocate for your community.’” Alvarez said.

Alvarez met with officials from her home district in California and was joined by two past presidents of SHPE, a past interim CEO of the organization, another current student and a recent graduate.

The group discussed their personal experiences as a hispanic in STEM and a SHPE member, how SHPE helps advance the numbers of Hispanics going to college for STEM-disciplines and how government representatives can help advocate for SHPE’s work and future funding opportunities. 

“I’m glad I decided to apply for this opportunity. SHPE has really helped me grow both professionally and personally. I have grown as a leader on campus and wanted to share this experience and the experience of my peers so that we as SHPE can grow together.”