THE INSTITUTE For the first time in its 12-year history, IEEE Day —scheduled for 5 October—will be a hybrid celebration, due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Events will be held both in person and virtually.
This year’s theme is Leveraging Technology for a Better Tomorrow. IEEE members worldwide are encouraged to celebrate the ways members collaborate.
IEEE Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1884 meeting in Philadelphia where members of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers, one of IEEE’s two predecessor societies, gathered for the first time to share technical ideas.
The day is officially being celebrated on 5 October, but IEEE sections may mark the event throughout the first two weeks of October.
Not sure the type of event to plan? The IEEE Day team is working on a list of ideas. Here are some to consider:
Humanitarian activities. These could include sponsoring a food drive, raising money for COVID-19 relief funds, and volunteering at an orphanage.
Employ TryEngineering at a school near you. Use lesson plans to teach students how to build lasers and LEDs.
Fun events. How about traditional dances, singing competitions, debates, or quizzes?
Membership drive event. IEEE Day is the best time to increase membership. Between 3and 9October, new members will receive a discount on their dues. Details will be available on the IEEE Day website.
IEEE senior member roundup. Hold an elevation drive to increase the number of senior members. Prospective senior members can receive feedback on their nomination form and connect with professionals who could be listed as references.
TOOLS AND SUPPORT
To assist those who are planning activities, the IEEE Day team is developing a tool kit to walk organizers through the process. It is expected to be available next month.
The team also plans to have ambassadors who can help organizers prepare presentations and provide them with IEEE brand identity guidelines. The ambassadors will be able to provide planners with support on the day of their event as well.
Check the IEEE Day website for updates, and follow the team on social media.
IEEE Member Sakib Ahmed is the 2021 IEEE Day communications lead from the IEEE Bangladesh Section in Region 10.
IEEE membership offers a wide range of benefits and opportunities for those who share a common interest in technology. If you are not already a member, consider joining IEEE and becoming part of a worldwide network of more than 400,000 students and professionals.
