If you own a company in the electrical engineering industry, you would do well to partner with electrical engineering professional organizations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from across company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, associations for electrical engineers may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a electrical engineering organization, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check the Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Many electrical engineering professional societies don’t stipulate membership for certification.

3. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an accredited electrical engineering group

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional services, products and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The Edison Electric Institute offers three categories of membership so you can find one that meets your needs. The Association of Energy Engineers includes product discounts, educational opportunities and networking opportunities as part of their extensive membership benefits package.

Take advantage of industry training opportunities provided by electrical engineering associations

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs; in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: The Association for Facilities Engineering and the Electric League of Missouri both offer educational programs, including certifications and online courses.

Find an online electrical engineering council that maintains active web forums

The forum on an industry organization's website can be a great source of support. Forums are a real-time communication opportunity. Any business with a question or concern can raise it in a forum and receive up-to-date responses from a variety of experts. Check to see that forum discussions have current activity before you join.

I recommend: The American Council of Engineering Companies and IEEE both provide online coalitions and forums in which industry professionals can share their questions, concerns and ideas.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Networking is a great business tool. Make sure you're stocked with business cards so you can market yourself and your company at the next electrical engineers organization event.