Cover OSPE is getting involved because elections present a great opportunity for our members to meet politicians and build relationships with government. Politicians of all stripes are more accessible during elections - this includes high-profile candidates - current cabinet ministers or rising stars. During an election it is often possible to meet with politicians or party leaders for a minute or two on the campaign trail. Contact during elections can help us cultivate relationships and identify champions for engineering issues. During elections, commitments are easier to secure. Each political party will be targeting and appealing to critical demographics. OSPE will position the engineering community as a demographic that will support candidates who champion their issues. If taking a positive position on engineering issues will enhance their relationship with voters, candidates may be more likely to 'Take the Pledge.' Election efforts demonstrate the value and importance of engineers in Ontario. The potential gains of participating in the election for Ontario's engineering community are substantial: * A heightened public profile for major issues impacting engineers; * Commitments from parties on OSPE's key asks; * Closer relationships with elected officials - including government and engineering champions from all parties. As the voice of the engineering community in Ontario, OSPE is engaging in the provincial election to ensure that engineers are heard. Am I eligible to participate? Yes! Everyone is eligible to participate in our campaign and 'Take the Pledge.' We especially encourage Professional Engineers and Engineering Interns to get involved. How can I get involved? Visit www.EngineeringAlly.ca to take the pledge. The entire process takes less than one minute. Then, share that you've taken the pledge using the hashtag #EngineeringAlly to join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Does OSPE endorse or support any one political party or candidate? OSPE does not endorse or support any one political party or candidate over another. We are a non-partisan advocacy association; meaning that we welcome campaign involvement from all three major parties who support the engineering community. It is our sincere hope that all candidates from all three parties will 'Take the Pledge' and demonstrate their shared support for the engineering community. Who can I contact for more information? For questions about the campaign please contact our advocacy team at: advocacy@ospe.on.ca March 2018 The VOICe 21http://www.EngineeringAlly.ca