With our proximity to the University of South Florida, we get some great MakerCon volunteers, and also some awesome student group exhibitors. This year, we’re happy to welcome the USF Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) , which is active in community outreach and engagement throughout the University Area.
Below, they share more about what they do and what they’re bringing to MakerCon.
GCMC: What do you make?
SHPE: The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) at the University of South Florida (USF) is a student organization that provides a variety of resources and events to the USF community relating to professional development, mentorship, and technology, as well as providing a space for Hispanics to grow and join a community. Additionally, SHPE USF uses its SHPE Jr. division to educate K-12 students, parents, and schools on college readiness and STEM through high schools and outreach events at USF.
GCMC: Why do you make it?
SHPE: We do this because we want to empower the Hispanic community within USF and across the Tampa Bay area to realize its fullest potential and to make a positive impact through STEM awareness, access, support, and development.
GCMC: What are you bringing to MakerCon and what do you hope to learn?
SHPE: We will be showcasing our events for the 2024-2025 academic year, as well as offering our insight into college and STEM. For USF students, we plan to create workshops on professional development and to bring companies to teach students important skills, such as how to build a resume, how to perform well in an interview, and how to secure an internship.
For our K-12 audience, we will be hosting public events at USF on college readiness and STEM, such as how to apply to college, bringing universities to talk to students about their college, and educating students through our STEM activities. We hope to learn about the needs of the students across Tampa Bay and how we can support their journey through education and beyond.
GCMC: Where can people learn more about SHPE?
SHPE: Check out the SHPE Jr. Website and the SHPE USF Instagram .
To meet the great students running SHPE and check out SHPE Jr activities and resources, click HERE to get your FREE tickets to attend Gulf Coast MakerCon or HERE if you want to join USF SHPE as an exhibitor or vendor!