About Us

About Us

History of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers

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.

Mission

SHPE changes lives by empowering the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support, and development.

Vision

SHPE’s vision is a world where Hispanics are highly valued and influential as the leading innovators, scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.

What is UConn SHPE?

The SHPE University of Connecticut Student Chapter was founded in 1997 and was acknowledged as a university organization on campus becoming a part of a national organization the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), which has been committed to helping our college community fill a growing need for Engineers and Scientists. Due to lack of members slowly the chapter diminished.

In 2000 SHPE UConn was awoken once more and re-established by Maribel Flores, a third year electrical engineering student. The 2000-2001 executive board would consist of seven individuals who were determined not only upon making SHPE UConn known within the UConn community, but also being recognized by other SHPE chapters on the national level.

Why Join UConn SHPE?

By becoming a member of SHPE at UConn you will have endless opportunities. SHPE membership will introduce you to older members, give you the opportunity to participate in community service and fundraisers, participate in our social events, get tutoring and help for your classes, and you will qualify for the chance to apply for our UConn SHPE scholarship as well as SHPE National Scholarships. SHPE members have access to several benefits from our chapter. Throughout the academic year we offer workshops on resume development, interviews, and academic support. Every year we strive to offer as many opportunities as possible; by making connections with Professional Companies we organize industry tours and professional panels for our members. We also stay connected to the National SHPE Network and send interested members to National and Regional conferences where they are introduced to Professional Workshops, Tech Talks, and Career Fairs.

Why Become a National Member?

For a small fee ($10), you can become a national professional member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.  Some of the benefits of being a national member include:

  • Career development and leadership training.  Ability to attend SHPE Conference, National Institute for Leadership Advancement, Regional Leadership Development Conferences, and other conferences.

  • Networking opportunities with corporate representatives, fellow professional members and SHPE leaders.

  • Mentor opportunities through AHETEMS programs (Advancing Hispanic Excellence in Technology, Engineering, Math and Science).

  • SHPE/AHETEMS scholarship opportunities to continue your education.

  • Eligible to nominate or be nominated for SHPE’s most prestigious national awards.

  • Discounts for National Conference registration and regional/chapter events.

  • Free subscriptions to SHPE and Hispanic Business magazines