The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) continues to open doors for Hispanics in STEM, creating pathways for success through awareness, access, support, and development. This year marked a milestone as SHPE celebrated its 50th anniversary at the National Convention in Anaheim, California, from October 30 to November 3. The University of Tennessee’s SHPE chapter proudly sent 16 members to take part in this landmark event, immersing themselves in competitions, networking, and professional growth.
For six of our members, this was their first time attending a national convention—an experience that quickly proved life-changing. Among them, Victoria Rapalo and Samantha Lobato secured on-site job offers, one for a full-time position and the other for a summer internship from Bechtel, respectively. Providing first-time attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with industry and academic representatives has always been a priority, and this year’s success reinforced why.
The chapter also set three key goals for the convention, led by President Arsenio Montero and Conference Chair Ariana Torres. Arsenio and Ariana took on the STEM Research Poster Competition, showcasing UT’s research achievements. Meanwhile, a dedicated group of members stepped up to compete in the Academic Olympiad, a high-stakes challenge featuring FE exam-style questions in both written and Jeopardy-style formats. Jonathan Cazares and Kimberly Alcala advanced to the second round as Region 5 finalists—an impressive feat for the chapter’s first year in the competition. Their experience set the foundation for future success, with plans already in motion to prepare next year’s competitors with dedicated FE study guides.
Beyond competitions and career opportunities, the convention strengthened connections within the SHPE community. Members had the chance to meet with Tennessee Tech’s SHPE chapter, fostering new relationships between students from across the state. This meet-up has already opened doors for more communication and collaboration between both chapters, creating opportunities to support each other in future initiatives. Whether presenting research, competing in academic challenges, or expanding professional and personal networks, UT’s SHPE chapter made its mark. The lessons learned and experiences gained will fuel the chapter’s growth and preparation for next year’s convention, ensuring even greater success ahead.
Testimonials
Kimberly Alcala
“Attending the SHPE national conference was a new experience for me and the student engineers that attended with me made it an unforgettable experience. The workshops and panels I was able to attend while at the conference, taught me skills that cannot be found inside a classroom and working professional engineers gave us advice they have accumulated since entering the workforce. Participating in the academic Olympiad is a learning opportunity that was challenging but my partner Jonathan was an incredible partner that helped me throughout it all.”
Jonathan Cazares
“Attending SHPE’s national conference was such an amazing opportunity due the professional development and connections established during the workshops and career fair. Additionally, participating in the academic Olympiad and passing the exam was an absolute pleasure and is definitely something I want to pursue if that opportunity presents itself again. Overall, the entire trip was something I’ll never forget, not only because of the career growth, but as well as the stunning sightseeing in Anaheim.”
Samantha Lobato-Romero
“Attending the SHPE National Convention was an incredible experience that I’ll always cherish. The networking opportunities were invaluable, and I’m especially grateful for the chance to connect with representatives from Bechtel. Through the event, I was able to land an internship opportunity with them, which is a huge step forward in my career. I’m so thankful I went and for everything I learned and gained from the convention!”
Victoria Rapalo
“My first time attending the SHPE National Conference was not only an unforgettable experience but an incredible opportunity to share my research with like-minded students and professionals. It was amazing to see so many passionate Latinos in STEM and made me feel proud to apart of the community. I left the convention with even more motivation to purse my career in Engineering.”
Ariana Torres
“My first time attending the SHPE National Conference was not only an unforgettable experience but an incredible opportunity to share my research with like-minded students and professionals. It was amazing to see so many passionate Latinos in STEM and made me feel proud to apart of the community. I left the convention with even more motivation to purse my career in Engineering.”