Engineers Without Borders-USA elevates the concept of volunteering by implementing impactful projects such as enhancing access to clean drinking water and constructing efficient irrigation systems. This organization, comprised of student chapters from universities nationwide, focuses on creating sustainable engineering solutions while inspiring the next generation of engineers.
For instance, students at the University of Colorado are currently developing a water system for a village in Rwanda. In a separate initiative in May 2003, a team of engineering students from the Colorado School of Mines collaborated with the residents of San Pablo, Belize, to install solar panels and electrical wiring in key community buildings, including the school and church.
This nonprofit has facilitated humanitarian projects across the globe, with notable efforts in Thailand, Mali, Senegal, Peru, and Afghanistan.
ASME, a supporter of the Belize project, is partnering with Engineers Without Borders to encourage ASME members and student members to participate in future international projects. These collaborations are planned for fall 2004 and throughout 2005.
Looking ahead, ASME and Engineers Without Borders will spearhead a coalition of technical societies and other organizations for Engineers Week 2005. ASME will coordinate communication among various engineering groups to form project teams that will support Engineers Without Borders’ global initiatives.