Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Holds Regional Conference
Students in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers participate in CSU Challenge Course activities. The Challenge Course helped students learn teamwork and leadership skills. |
"Leadership on the
Poudre"
Region III Student Leadership Conference
Written by Maria Reyes, Vice President SHPE-CSU
It was with great enthusiasm that the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) student chapter at Colorado State University welcomed all participants to the Spring 2004 "Leadership on the Poudre" Region III Student Leadership Conference (RSLC) on April 1-4, 2004. This event not only provided professional development, but also let students relax and have fun while getting to know each other. SHPE received funding from sponsors such as IBM and Sun Microsystems to provide students with great workshops and an enjoyable stay in Fort Collins, Colo. In addition to having corporate sponsors, we received contributions from the Colorado Alliance for Minority Participation, Women and Minorities in Engineering Program, CSU Bookstore, President's office and the Provost. CSU President Larry Penley recognized the 2004 RSLC in a formal letter addressing "the important role Hispanic engineers play in advancing the engineering profession and our society." Students arrived on the evening of April 1 and attended activities all day April 2 and 3. The students represented many schools in region III such as University of Colorado at Denver, University of Colorado at Boulder, Colorado School of Mines, Colorado State University, University of Wyoming, Boise State University and New Mexico State University.
The RSLC provided workshops conducted by representatives from Lockheed Martin,
IBM, INROADS, SHPE National and our very own CSU Graduate School. These workshops
dealt with resume writing, leadership and networking as it pertains to both
student and professional realms. The event was designed to provide an environment
that encouraged interaction between all in attendance, and was successful by
the welcoming and personal environment in which students could network with
professionals, and also the willingness of all attendees to share personal experiences
with each other during the workshops and meals. Without a doubt, many aspects
of professional development were targeted for the benefit of the student.
One favorite aspect, incorporated to the 2004 RSLC itinerary, was the CSU Challenge
Course. As leaders, we are forced to work in teams and depend on each member,
as well as identify our own strengths and weaknesses. Our participation in an
interactive ropes course allowed students as well as professionals to take part
in activities that required courage, communication, initiative and trust. We
must be able to work in teams and get along with our own challenges, as well
as group members, to ensure a successful career both as a student and a professional.
While some jumped off of a 35 ft post, climbed a 25 ft wall, or walked across
a wire or log hung 35 ft above the ground, every participant had to rely on
the person on the ground that was attached to their harness and was their safety
in case of a fall. Not only did participants trust others, but were also able
to face their own fears. The Challenge Course was a new and unique experience
The conference concluded with a banquet attended by students, professionals
and representatives from our generous sponsors. During the ceremony all sponsors
were acknowledged as well as the SHPE CSU president Gabe Martinez for his great
dedication to making the 2004 RSLC possible, and Yuliana Porrias for her excellent
job as National Student Representative. During the evening we had our very own
Although region III does not encompass large numbers, it is the great leadership and dedication of every student that keeps this region succeeding. The quality of our students is amazing and there is no doubt that many great things will come in the near future not only from this region but also from each and every student. Through our strong network and communication we will achieve every goal we set for ourselves. I would like to thank the many who made this conference successful and especially thank our Regional Vice President Bryant Amador for his confidence, encouragement, and vision for Region III.