Society of Women Engineers

Geneva College’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) has become an important resource for women on campus with engineering and scientific aspirations. The SWE′s mission is to, "Stimulate women to achieve full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expand the image of the engineering profession as a positive force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrate the value of diversity."

SWE chapters are typically only found at large colleges and universities. But in 2013, a number of female engineering students at Geneva banded together to bring the organization to campus. There was a long list of boxes to check, including 10 dues-paying members, a list of past and future meetings, and a faculty advisor in good standing with SWE. Some small, private schools have a tough time meeting these requirements, but Geneva’s SWE chapter met the challenge head on.

By hosting an SWE chapter on campus, our female students can officially affiliate themselves with the organization and receive the benefits of a collegiate membership. This represents a commitment to the advancement of women in the field and includes opportunities to visit conferences and compete with other chapters. 

Engineering Ambassadors (EA) is a professional experience that operates alongside SWE. EA takes the ideals of SWE and takes them to middle and high school students. Once members are trained as ambassadors are trained, they visit local schools and host students with the goal of promoting the engineering and STEM fields.

Karen Mlynarski, advisor to the SWE and EA, says, “We are encouraging people, companies and schools to ask questions, explore the opportunities to support and utilize both SWE and EA through school visits, corporate partnerships and campus outreach.”

SWE and EA member Rebecca Wojton adds, “I really love the opportunity I have to interact, impact and inspire younger students.” 

–Brett Williams ’16