So what exactly is a conference? Conferences are an incredible opportunity to learn about different perspectives, EngSocs, and more. They are an opportunity to network with students and professionals alike. They’re a great chance to learn and grow as an individual and as a student leader. Some are focused more towards getting involved in EngSoc, Engineering Student Societies’ Council of Ontario (ESSCO), and the Canadian Federation of Engineering Students (CFES), but some are geared towards personal and professional growth. We also want to make our delegations more diverse, so no matter your involvements, we’d love to see your application.

November 3rd-5th was the weekend of Professional Engineers Ontario – Student Conference (PEO-SC) put on by Ryerson Engineering Student Society and ESSCO. This conference is 2 days, and is centered around professional development, and introducing students to PEO and the process of obtaining their P.Eng. license. This is also an opportunity to learn about the PEO Student Membership program which gives students information on obtaining their license, as well as events put on by PEO chapters, and other organizations. Our delegation had a blast meeting students from other schools and exploring downtown Toronto!

This past weekend was the Conference on Diversity in Engineering put on by McMaster Engineering Society and the CFES. This conference is 2 days as well, but this time focused on diversity, intersectionality, and inclusivity. There were many incredible industry leaders there giving talks on mental wellness, allyship, creating change within the engineering community, and many others. Our delegation met many more amazing people from many walks of life from all across Canada.

So what does this mean for you? The delegates who went to these conferences bring back information to share via word of mouth, in their own initiatives, in EngSoc initiatives, and in the form of blog posts and a conference report. Maybe that still leaves you unaffected, in which case I say apply! You could be the person sharing knowledge and improving initiatives. Are you in first year? Look out for First Year Integration Conference applications. This conference focuses on developing first years into student leaders, and breaking down the barriers that are present in first year. Want a more intense conference revolving more around EngSoc and CFES? Applications for CFES Congress happening in January at Dalhousie University are now out. Check out http://www.uwengconferences.ca/ to apply. This conference is a week long and spans January 2nd to 8th, so this does mean you will miss a week of class or work, but I promise it’ll worth it. The knowledge gained, and the connections made are so worthwhile. Applications for Congress close on November 19th, so apply soon!

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to send me an email, or drop by my office hours. Cheers!