Thank you for being an essential part of SEAOI. Let's make this year one of connection and growth!

We are going to try something new this year and I hope you’ll join me. I am excited to announce the SEAOI Engagement Challenge, a year-long initiative designed to enhance member involvement and build a stronger community. Each month, we'll introduce a new mini-challenge aimed at fostering engagement, networking, and professional growth.

July’s challenge is to Volunteer for a Committee. That might sound intimidating or overwhelming, but it’s really the best way to make this organization work for you. Volunteering enhances your leadership skills and expands your professional network – and it can even be fun!

Pro Tip: You don’t have to formally join the committee without attending a meeting or two first. Most meetings are virtual and you can easily drop in to get a feeling for what they do and the range of time commitments of the members. Check out our committees here and once you find one (or two) you’d like to check out, email our amazing Executive Director, Stephanie Crain scrain@seaoi.org, and get added to the meeting invitation.

What committees you'll find me in:

• Continuing Education
• Women in Structural Engineering
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
• SEAOI Board Meeting
• SEAOI Strategic Plan

Here’s what you can look forward to over the next year:

July: Volunteer for a Committee
Sign up to volunteer with one of our committees or events.

August: Bring a Friend
Invite a member or non-member colleague with you to attend the Fall Kick-Off SEAOI Dinner Meeting in September.

September: Networking Happy Hour
Join a local happy hour with fellow members.

October: Attend a Webinar - Illinois SE Renewal is 11/30!
Join at least one SEAOI webinar and share your key takeaways.

November: Social Media Engagement
Post about your SEAOI involvement on LinkedIn and your other social media accounts and tag us.

December: Spotlight a Member
Nominate a colleague who inspires you for our monthly member spotlight.

January: New Year, New Goals
Set and share your professional goals for the year ahead.

February: Share a Success Story
Submit a story about a project or achievement you’re proud of. It can be your own success or a colleague's!

March: Share Your Ideas
Submit your ideas for future SEAOI activities, events, or initiatives to help us better serve our members.

April: Community Service
Participate in a community service project and share your experience.

May: Mentor a Student
Offer to mentor a student or young professional in the field.

June: Year-End Reflection
Reflect on your year of engagement and suggest improvements for next year.

Each mini-challenge will be communicated at the beginning of the month via email with further details. Your participation will not only enrich your own professional journey but also contribute to the strength and vitality of our organization and Illinois’s structural engineering community.

Let's get started together!

Warm regards,

Jennie Traut-Todaro SE, LEED AP
President, Structural Engineers Association of Illinois