IEEE: The Impact of a Global Organization

September 30, 2024

Back in 1884, a small group of engineers began meeting to support the emerging field of electrical engineering. The first technical meeting of that group was held in October in Philadelphia.

IEEE traces its roots to that meeting, and today the world commemorates the first Tuesday in October as IEEE Day. It is a celebration of an organization whose central focus has helped shape nearly all aspects of contemporary life – from the telegraph to the smartphone, lightbulb and electric vehicles.

Here, three IEEE members discuss how IEEE serves as their professional home and benefits their careers their industries and the world.

Their answers show how, 140 years later, IEEE members continue to have a reason to celebrate.

How do you think IEEE benefits your profession and the world?

Scott Tamashiro, IEEE Senior Member: IEEE is the central gathering place for ideas and discussions in the technology field. My engagement allows one to learn from different perspectives, companies, entrepreneurs and students. In turn, this experience has helped me interact better with my diverse customer base. As long as IEEE adheres to its mission of advancing technology for humanity, it will remain a trusted source and brand worldwide.

Bibin Parukoor Thomas, IEEE Member : As product designer, IEEE mainly offers me networking opportunities and professional development.

IEEE contributes a positive impact in the world in several ways, namely by advancing technology and innovation, improving safety and reliability, developing new avenues for sustainability and encouraging global collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Why would you recommend IEEE to others?

Tamashiro: There are two main reasons.

The first is because it allows me to grow and learn from others. Knowing someone is an IEEE member is a great icebreaker and a good indication that they are technically skilled and find value in IEEE like you do.

Second, membership is a great way to give back to the profession. The time I spend volunteering is precious. I use it to help develop professional development activities, networking opportunities and students. Giving back feels good.

Filippo Sanfilippo, IEEE Senior Member: I highly recommend joining IEEE for the following reasons: access to state-of-the-art research, networking opportunities, opportunities for awards and leadership opportunities. IEEE facilitates the realization of the so-called knowledge triangle, which refers to the interaction between research, education and innovation, which are key drivers of a knowledge-based society.

How has IEEE helped advance your career?

Sanfilippo: IEEE helped advance my career by helping me develop my global network across researchers, engineers and practitioners. IEEE also enables me to access a vast repository of research publications, conference proceedings and technical resources. Moreover, volunteering has helped me develop my leadership abilities, broaden my professional network, and make significant contributions to the community.

Thomas: Referrals from fellow IEEE members have helped me land new opportunities. The organization has also helped me hone my leadership skills and interact with and manage stakeholders at different levels, translating this into my professional life.