The document discusses how software engineering (SWE) experiences can complement careers in various ways. It provides examples of members who have used SWE to gain geographic exposure, improve leadership and public speaking skills, and prepare for promotions. The document also notes that SWE involvement can help fill gaps during periods of unemployment, breaks from work after having children, or retirement. It highlights the various volunteer opportunities within SWE at the local and society levels, including leadership positions, committees, and conferences. The document encourages taking advantage of SWE's resources to complement one's career.

1. Using SWE to
Complement your
Career
Faith Chu
faith.swe@gmail.com
October 27, 2017

2. 2
Agenda
•Areas in your career where you feel you current role is
lacking
• How SWE can complement to fulfill you personally and
professionally
• SWE Opportunities and Resources

3. 3
Faith Chu
About me

4. 4
SWE & Your Career (& Life)
What SWE means to you may
change as your life changes
How you utilize SWE will
change as your life changes

5. 5
Technical
Public Speaking
Global
Involvement
SWE
SWE experiences can fill in the
missing piece!
Think about your current job…

6. 6
SWE & Your Career
• Project manager at a small regional supplier, wanted more
geographic exposure – joined SWE Awards committee, interfacing
with members all over the country
• Technical specialist, wanted to improve on people & leadership skills
– ran for a region officer position (Lt. Gov), allowed for public
speaking opportunities, leading collegiate team, exposure to “big
SWE”
• Mid level engineering professional wanted to prepare for a promotion
but looking for leadership - became a Society Committee Chair
SWE experience can complement your career and professional
experience

7. 7
SWE & Your Career
• Member was laid off from job, stayed involved with SWE as Region
Gov and Society Committee to have “experience” to put on her
resume during her unemployment. Continued to gather leadership
experiences even while unemployed
• Member took time off after children were born, continued involvement
with SWE in her local section holding leadership positions, attending
conference helped her get a new job when she was ready to return to
work
• Member retired from career, become more involved in SWE now that
she had more time, mentored other members
SWE can fill in gaps during job loss, or break from career

8. 8
Opportunities within SWE
SWE has many volunteer opportunities with a variety of
time commitments and subject areas
Local, Society level experiences
Elected Leadership Positions (local e-board, region
leadership, BOD)
Committee and Committee Chairs
Something for Everyone!

9. 9
Resources
• SWE Conferences – WE17, WELocal
• Networking
• Current region/MAL leadership
• Section leadership
• SWE Website & Database

10. Questions?