Make Societies Social Again

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14 May 2018

Written by: Alexander Andrenkov P.Eng., M.Eng., MCSCE
This article was originally published in GEO Newsletter Issue 9 in April 2018. Read the full publication here.

There are as many as 18 professional Canadian associations and societies that are related to engineering. Despite the vast number of opportunities to join organizations related to their field, most engineers choose not to participate. Out of the limited numbers that do sign up, only a fraction actively participate in their local sections. This unfortunate trend is detrimental to the profession as a whole. There needs to be a greater push to promote active participation in these organizations.

So why has involvement been so lackluster? Most engineers usually point to membership fees, time commitments, and lack of tangible benefits as factors that prevent them from committing. People only give up their time and money for something they perceive as valuable and worthwhile. Thus, even though membership fees can be reduced or tiered, engineers must first see the value of memberships in associations and societies.

Membership benefits can be grouped up into networking, transfer of knowledge, assisting government policy, and public outreach. Networking allows individuals to connect and share ideas. The larger your network of professionals, the more resources you have when looking for a project solution or exploring career opportunities. The second advantage is the transfer of technical knowledge and skills that you pick up through seminars, tours, and panels. Participation allows you to hone existing skills, become acquainted with new industry trends, and even collect PDH towards PEO’s PEAK program. Third, societies and associations expand past your daily work duties and give you the opportunity to help forge Canada’s policies. Certain programs, like CSCE’s Infrastructure Renewal Committee, influence government decisions when it comes to infrastructure spending by exploring existing flaws and suggesting remedial measures. Finally, professional organizations influence the public through a wealth of programs by advocating on the importance of engineering and encouraging the next generation to explore STEM studies.

Societies and associations offer a lot to engineers; both to seasoned professionals and younger graduates. They help to expand your professional network, gain knowledge and skills, influence Canada’s policies, and inspire the public. The benefits of membership greatly outweigh the fees and time commitments, perfectly complimenting any professional in their career and personal growth.

The Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE) Toronto Section represents the national organization on a local level. The CSCE is a learned society created to develop and maintain high standards of civil engineering practice in Canada and to enhance the public image of the civil engineering profession. Locally, we host interesting talks, seminars, workshops, and tours throughout the year. If you would like more information on the section, events, or membership, please go to our website at www.cscetoronto.ca or contact us at torontocsce@gmail.com.

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