Miami University’s College of Engineering and Computing is home to many different clubs to support the professional and personal goals of all students. A recent addition is a Miami chapter of The Society of Hispanic Engineers (SHPE), which was founded in 2021 by two students, and has grown to 25 active members in the club. 

SHPE has been supporting Hispanic students and professionals for 50 years and is dedicated to increase Hispanic and Latino involvement in engineering and empower and uplift Hispanic students, but is an all-inclusive club for any engineering major. Miami University’s SHPE provides a profession-based environment and community by providing resources and hosting events that range from social, academic, professional development, and service based. 

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Some of these events include resume-building workshops, salsa dances, and a SHPE National convention. Last year, the club, with continuous support from Dean Beena Sukumaran and advisor Colleen Bush, was able to send three students to the 5-day convention. These students participated in educational workshops and a career fair where students have the opportunity to network with companies and interview for internships and jobs.

Sofi Avila, a junior Mechanical Engineering student, has been involved with SHPE since her freshman year. She has served as the vice president for a year and as the president for two years. Her goal this year is for the chapter to raise enough money this year to be able to take all of their members to the next SHPE convention in Anaheim. Sofi states, “SHPE has been a great welcoming space for Hispanic and Latinos in STEM at Miami and it has been great meeting everyone involved with SHPE.” 

Adrian Reyes-Rivera, a sophomore Mechanical Engineering student, joined SHPE his first semester freshman year. He joined after hearing about the organization from his advisor in his program, The Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation, which is an organization dedicated to providing minority students with research and career opportunities. He has recently been elected the Vice President of SHPE, and he is “thrilled to be part of SHPE’s leadership, to empower Hispanic engineering students, and to foster diversity in STEM while creating opportunities for professional growth and community impact.” 

Through various events and support, like resume workshops and big meetings, SHPE helps people grow personally and professionally while building a strong community. With leaders like Sofi Avila and Adrian Reyes-Rivera leading the way, SHPE at Miami University has a bright future, making sure there's more diversity and representation in STEM.

 To get involved with SHPE, join them on the HUB here! Society of Hispanic Engineers - The Hub (campuslabs.com)