FAQ

What is SWE?
The Society of Women Engineers is an international Professional Society. The mission is to encourage 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.

How do I join?
Joining SWE is easy! The UA section does not collect any dues for you to attend meetings. However, we suggest that you become a member at swe.org so that you can make the most of the valuable resources provided for college students and professionals! Click over to the Join SWE tab to get instructions.

**How long has SWE been around?
SWE was formed in 1950 in New Jersey by 60+ women who wanted the opportunity to develop their abilities, to give expression to their potential, and to contribute to society.

What kind of outreach activities does SWE participate and lead?
The Society of Women Engineers at The University of Alabama participates in many volunteer activities and it varies year to year. SWE has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, Black Warrior Riverkeeper, Bama Buddies, Operation Christmas Child, and Girl Scouts events. SWE also has its own program called Wow! That's Engineering! through which we interact with area middle schools at a day long event each year. In recent years, our SWE section has started a middle school outreach program where a set of volunteers visit a local middle school every week to teach the children about science!

What is the history of SWE at UA?
SWE has been active at UA for more than 20 years. In 1999, after we hosted our first regional conference at UA, the section raised enough funds to start an endowed scholarship for the College of Engineering. Since then, SWE has flourished. In the last 5 years alone, membership has grown by more than 80%. We hope to continue that growth for years to come!