About Us
A familia of engineers at Penn
We are the University of Pennsylvania chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers — students who found each other in hard problem sets and stayed for everything else.
Who We Are
Engineering is hard. Doing it alone is harder.
SHPE at Penn started with a group of students who wanted to build a stronger community for Hispanic and Latino students interested in STEM and professional development.
Today, our chapter focuses on helping members grow academically, professionally, and personally. We host resume workshops, mock interviews, networking events, and other programs that help students prepare for internships and careers. Just as importantly, SHPE gives members a place to connect with people who share similar experiences and backgrounds.
We also work to support the broader Philadelphia community through outreach and service.
You do not have to be Hispanic or an engineering major to join. Anyone who supports SHPE’s mission and wants to be part of the community is welcome.
Our History
Los Angeles, 1974. Penn, 1987.
SHPE was founded in Los Angeles in 1974 by a group of engineers who wanted to create a national organization supporting Hispanic professionals in engineering and providing role models for the broader Hispanic community.
What began as a small professional network quickly expanded to include student chapters across the country. Today, SHPE connects thousands of students and professionals through university chapters, professional chapters, conferences, and career development programs.
Penn SHPE was founded in 1987. Since then, the chapter has grown into a community focused on professional development, cultural connection, mentorship, and service at Penn and throughout Philadelphia.
What We Believe
The things we keep coming back to
Familia First
No one should have to navigate Penn Engineering alone. We build community through mentorship, honesty, and friendship.
Open Doors
SHPE is open to students of all majors, backgrounds, and class years. We want our events to be welcoming, accessible, and useful.
Culture as Strength
We see language, identity, and lived experience as strengths. They shape how we lead, solve problems, and support our community.
Reach Back
We believe opportunity means more when it is shared. Outreach and service are part of how we give back.
Penn SHPE is part of a national network of student and professional chapters across the country. Membership connects students with other SHPE members, scholarships, career resources, and events throughout the year.
One of the biggest opportunities is the annual SHPE National Convention, where students can meet recruiters, attend workshops, connect with other chapters, and explore internship and full-time opportunities. Penn SHPE may also provide travel support for members attending Convention.
Come see for yourself
The fastest way to understand this chapter is to walk into a general body meeting. Bring a friend if that makes it easier.