SHPE - Winter 2008 - (Page 68) REGIONAL ROUNDUP which cover computer basics, Microsoft Word, e-mail and the Internet. Seven years later, it continues be a significant event that keeps IBM Tucson and SHPEUA tightly bonded. Attendance has grown from 45 participants the first year to 135 the second and as many as 200 in the ensuing years, with two-thirds attending the Spanish workshops. The success of the event comes with the sense of accomplishment that the parents exhibit after completing the computer exercises. As the day progresses and their comfort level increases, the mystery and fear of using the computer and associated applications diminish. When most participants ask, “When are you doing this again?” we know that they’ve broken the digital divide. Each participant proudly receives a certificate of completion signed by the SHPE-UA president and Enrique Aviles, a senior ranking Hispanic executive with IBM Tucson. Participants are also eligible to win prizes that range from computer workstations and printers to books and paper shredders. Every year IBM Tucson is proud to assist SHPE-UA with “Breaking the Digital Divide (1001010)” which, as of 2007, has reached more than 1,000 Tucson adults. Submitted by Wanda Ronquillo IBM Liaison to a kid’s-sized pink ball, he said, “Now watch what I do with the seven-pounder.” The ball left his hand with the grace of an astronaut moving the joystick of the lunar module. It headed on a straight course and then sliced ever so slightly to the right to pick up the 10 pin. He jumped into the air and exclaimed his joy. Even techies go wild when their calculations hit their mark. To summarize the geeky evening in one phrase, “It’s all about mass.” The mass wielded by these calculating practitioners of techie bowling, at least when it finds it mark, is a sight to behold. One small toss from man, one giant roll for geek-kind! Submitted by Enrique Kreuter Pre-conference professional networking prepared UCLA members to interact confidently with corporate recruiters. California State University, Northridge SHPE CSUN scoured Philly in search for the ultimate cheesestake. Santa Barbara Professional Chapter Even techie bowlers go wild when they hit their mark. The Geeks came out at night last fall. Armed with pocket protectors and the spirit of competition, they were ready to bowl at Zodo’s Bowling And Beyond. It all started with a simple e-mail invitation. “Your SHPE-SB organizers will reserve two lanes at Zodo’s and will a have a cool but modest prize for the winning team. Don’t be shy, and come in your geek outfit.” The bowling was average at best, but the ball selection process was amazing. “It’s all about mass and inertia,” cried FreakyZ, a young electrical engineer from Raytheon, as his 15-pound bowling ball slammed into the set, knocking down all but one pin. Switching It was that time of the year again – time to pack our bags and head out to the SHPE Conference. Fourteen members were ready for interviews, internships, co-ops and full-time positions. After arriving early in Philadelphia, we headed into the streets in search of an original Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Once registered, we all headed in different directions. Four participated in the SHPE Ultimate Challenge, and out member on the Chevron team placed in a top position. The rest of us took part in the workshops and networking events. Two members were offered co-op opportunities with J&J, and Jose Rosales was offered a full-time position at Boeing. We were really satisfied with our participation in the SHPE Conference. With next year’s conference coming to Region II, we are already working on preparing a great conference. We welcome you to our side of the field and hope that you can join us for another national gathering of the SHPE familia. Submitted by Eder Villalboza ited amount of time to make a good impression. To better prepare its members for the 2007 SHPE Conference, the Society of Latino Engineers and Scientists (SOLES) hosted a new event called the “Industry/Alumni BBQ” just prior to leaving for Philadelphia. Members interacted with industry representatives over a competitive game of volleyball, then chowed down on a classic meal of carne asada con frijoles, arroz y tortillas. In this relaxed setting, students networked with SHPE professionals, two of which were recent SOLES graduates: Elena Garcia of Accenture and Carlos Castrejon of Chevron. Some received valuable insight regarding full-time and part-time employment, while others asked questions about the life of a professional compared to that of a student. As a result, SOLES members were more confident and prepared for their interviews and other professional interactions at the conference. The BBQ was an overall success, both in building up the chapter as well as in strengthening its ties with professionals. Submitted by Raylene Moreno Student Chapter Newsletter Representative University of Southern California SHPE-USC assisted in high school science projects during Viva Technology. University of California, Los Angeles Professional networking events such as career fairs and conferences can be quite stressful for students because they have a lim- During Viva Technology Day at Mountain View High School (El Monte, California), SHPE-USC members helped the students complete exciting science projects and compete for technology prizes. The kids also asked questions about college life and the different fields of science and engineering. The SHPE-USC members also networked with SHPE R Winter 2008 68
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