As an international non-profit association of professional engineers, the IEEE provides a forum that engages in the worldwide advancement of all forms of technology that relate to the use of electricity. With members in over 175 countries around the globe, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers ensures that information about developments within the engineering field are readily available to all electrical professionals, regardless of where they live and work. Here is some background on the IEEE, how it functions, and how membership in this professional organization benefits many industries.
Electricity is an essential commodity in the function of most types of business today. Without access to the latest technology, many companies would fall behind and ultimately fail. From such important industries as telecommunications to international manufacturing corporations, electronics play a key role in product and service distribution, sales efforts, and general operations. The work of the IEEE makes it possible for businesses in all types of industries to be aware of and utilize electricity option to the fullest.
Formed in 1963 by the merger of the Institute of Radio Engineers and the American Institute of Electrical Engineers, the IEEE combined the specific interests of both organizations into one interrelated focus. Including such vital areas as wire communications, power supply systems, and radio engineering, the formation of the IEEE resolved the issue of competing organizations whose areas of expertise were becoming increasingly intertwined in a modern world. The end result was the establishment of a central conduit of information flow that would allow the association to effectively make use of innovations in a number of electrical related fields. This central information flow provided members with the chance to learn from one another in ways that was not possible prior to that time.
Today, the IEEE makes use of a number of learning opportunities, such as professional journals, online learning tools, conferences and conventions and accredited courses to further the interests of electronic technology in the world today. Many countries have benefited from the presence of certified IEEE members in residence, since they often have access to concepts and ideas that help to improve the internal power supply structure and offer new solutions to old problems.
Because innovations in electrical technology are constantly appearing, the IEEE operates a vigorous continuing education program that offers significant learning opportunities for all members. Rather than seeing a degree in electrical engineering as the final step in the process of growing in the field, IEEE members have the chance to constantly hone their expertise to foresee and deal with new challenges within their working environments. In the long run, this continuing education process benefits individuals, whole communities, and countries, as the need for more efficient electrical engineering procedures becomes apparent.
