RAQUEL TAMEZ: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS
Q. Please tell us about your leadership role and the top priorities at the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE).
This is my first CEO role, and I approach it humbly and with a sense of pride. SHPE was established in 1974 as a national organization of professional engineers to serve as role models in the Hispanic community.
This is a mission that I fully support. I grew up in a poor neighborhood and was raised by immigrant parents. Education provided me with opportunities and empowered me. Education is the great equalizer, and in my role, I have an opportunity to pay that forward.
At SHPE, we push for excellence in serving our students, working professionals, lifetime members and Industry Partnership Council (IPC) partners. The U.S. Army has been a member of the IPC for eight years.
One priority this year is reviewing our national programs and evaluating how we can make them more robust for our stakeholders to ensure we are maximizing the benefits they receive from SHPE. My goal is to increase our number of professional members by delivering more distinctive, cutting-edge programming, such as a new year-long, dynamic, multi-tiered, multi-faceted authentic Latino leadership development program that will help build and groom the executive leaders of tomorrow.
Q. Why did you join the U.S. Army’s Strengthening America’s Youth (SAY) Committee, and how does SHPE’s work align with it?
Shortly after I became CEO last year, I attended a SAY webinar and was intrigued by the information I heard about the U.S. Army’s recruiting mission. Later in the year, I attended the Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio and learned more about the educational and training opportunities available to our nation’s Soldiers.
The Army has historically supported the SHPE National Convention, which is attended annually by approximately 6,600 students and professionals interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). At the event, the Army conducts an interactive leadership workshop focused on STEM careers and skills within the Army for undergraduate and graduate students. Attendees learn how they can earn certifications and high-quality training through Army service.
Q. Can you share a few recent highlights related to your involvement with the SAY Committee?
Attending the Army All-American Bowl was phenomenal, as well as helpful and insightful. I enjoyed meeting representatives from the Army and other Advocates. Plus, learning about the numerous STEM-related professions within the Army was eye-opening for me.
The Army is one of the many pathways for SHPE members. I am frequently asked about the barriers to STEM careers in the Hispanic community, and it comes down to two main barriers:
- Awareness – Hispanic parents may not know what STEM is or about all of the opportunities and possibilities in these disciplines.
- Access – Some families are economically disadvantaged, so a four-year or two-year college education may not be feasible. The U.S. Army can offer a pathway.
Q. Why do you feel it is important to support the Army as a leader in the education field, especially when it comes to STEM education?
We need scientists, engineers, mathematicians and innovators – within the Army and Department of Defense. The totality of our circumstances and the global environment make it important to have this talent in the military. I now have a better understanding of the various STEM roles and comprehensive benefits of serving in the Army. The education benefits available to Soldiers are hard to beat.
Q. What about the U.S. Army has surprised you through your involvement?
I am eager to show different sides and opportunities available in the Army to the Hispanic community and SHPE Convention attendees. For example, while I was at the All-American Bowl, I noticed the Army band playing – at the time, I didn’t realize there are career paths like becoming a musician or band Officer available in the Army. And let’s not forget the many opportunities for women – and leadership roles for them – in the Army. I believe many of SHPE’s female members – our SHPEtinas – might be interested in learning more.
Q. What do you hope to gain and accomplish as a member of the SAY Committee?
As the leader of SHPE, I want to continue learning how the Army works with the Hispanic community as well as collaborate and strategize with the Army to overcome barriers that dissuade Hispanic young adults from considering the military. I see the vast opportunities that the Army offers to young men and women who want to advance their education, gain new skills and embark on a successful career path.
