Engineers say...

Why K-12 Engineering? Because dreams need doing. Engineering is a creative, people-oriented enterprise. It's a profession that engages people from all walks of life to create the stuff that meets people's needs, drives our economy and protects our planet.

To help youngsters envision a bright future for themselves. The engineering profession is rewarding - both emotionally satisfying and financially. An engineering future can raise families out of poverty, and provide an avenue for individuals to contribute to the nation's well being and the planet's future.

Engineers need a better reputation. Many people (students and adults alike) perceive engineers as men wearing white shirts with pocket protectors. When I look at engineering websites, I often see a bunch of older, white males smiling back at me. But I know that's not a fair portrayal. I want students to know that engineers can be anyone - women, persons of color, young, old, funky, reserved - and they are FUN people, too.

Engineering as a profession needs creativity. If we are going to compete within the world of technology, we need innovative thinkers - people who come up with wild ideas. Tomorrow's engineers are in today's K-12 classrooms. I know that there are students out there who are artistic, creative and passionate - and who want to make a world of difference. They would make wonderful engineers. I want to encourage students who want to make a difference in the world to find their niche in engineering.

Face it; the numbers of engineers in our country are declining. We need to get the word out. We need to engage pre-college students in engineering-related activities to increase interest in our profession. We need to get our numbers up! It is too late to try to get students to transfer to engineering within the college setting. We need to encourage more students to apply to engineering colleges from high schools. We need to publicize engineering as an option for students who start their higher education at local, two-year colleges.