Graduates
Of the
Last
Decade
Graduates
Of the
Last
Decade
As you may be aware, IEEE membership is flat, or declining, and retention of student
members remains low. Unfortunately, many of the existing programs may not currently appeal
to younger engineers. As a result, IEEE is proactively addressing these issues.
The IEEE has recently introduced a program entitled the Graduates
Of the Last Decade or GOLD, specifically targeted
at engineers that have recently entered the workforce, or will soon graduate. Engineers
that have fewer than ten years experience are referred to as "young
professionals." There are programs being developed and geared to highlight needs
typical to this group (although these programs may still apply to "non-GOLD" members as well).
The Florida West Coast Section has established a GOLD
program. We are actively seeking people to participate on a sectional GOLD committee, whose purpose will be to develop membership and
participation for the whole section, especially "young professionals." The
committee looks at ways to enhance membership value. Potential topics for investigation
include many non-technical issues that traditionally have not been addressed. This is your
opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a new venture. GOLD
programs are geared toward professional development, emphasize current issues, involve
"younger" members (those newest to the profession) as planners and presenters,
and integrate social (networking) opportunities into meetings. GOLD
development may include students and/or younger members on the Executive Committee
(EXCOM), or other committees to gain their input.
GOLD priorities will be integrated into overall operations -
encouraging "cross-over" events that will attract all members. The intention is
not to "sectionalize" GOLD. While some activities
may be separate "chapter-type" activities, others will be mixers or cross-over
events. We want to integrate the GOLD-oriented programs to
add value to membership in the Section and the IEEE.
If you would like to know more about this program, please email
Dennis Trask.
Additional Links:
(supplement to IEEE Spectrum)