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About The National Society of Women Engineers

The Society of Women Engineers is the largest non-profit educational and service organization representing both student and professional women in engineering and technical fields.

  • Founded in 1950
  • Incorporated in 1952
  • Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois
  • Over 17,000 members in 90 sections and 300 student sections
  • More than 400 members-at-large

At Catholic

The Society of Women Engineers gained their status as a student chapter in 1982, starting the KEYs and Gateways traditions as well as the National Engineers Week celebrations at the University.

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Mission (adopted 1986)

The Society of Women Engineers stimulates women to achieve full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expands the image of the engineering profession as a positive force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrates the value of diversity.

Objectives (adopted 1950)

  • Inform young women, their parents, counselors, and the general public, of the qualifications and  achievements of women engineers and the opportunities open to them.
  • Assist women in readying themselves for a return to active work after temporary retirement.
  • Serve as a center of information on women in engineering.
  • Encourage women engineers to attain high levels of education and professional achievement.

Strategic Priorities

  1. Education and Outreach:  The technical professions will benefit, and the quality of life will be enhanced by more women of all backgrounds pursuing the profession of engineering.
  2. Inclusive Organization:  SWE will be an inclusive organization focused on issues of interest to women of all backgrounds in engineering and technical careers.
  3. Knowledge Source:  SWE will be a worldwide leader and preferred partner in the creation and advancement of information about women in technical careers.
  4. Professional Leadership:  Women will be acknowledged as demonstrating the skills required to be effective leaders in a global marketplace.
  5. Value and Benefit:  SWE programs and services across the organization will provide value and benefit and meet the diverse and changing needs of Society members and stakeholders.