What are the best ways to build a professional network in Control Engineering as a student?

1 Join relevant associations and societies

One of the easiest ways to expand your network is to join associations and societies that cater to control engineers and related fields. For example, you can become a member of the IEEE Control Systems Society, the International Federation of Automatic Control, or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. These organizations offer various benefits, such as access to journals, conferences, workshops, webinars, awards, scholarships, and mentoring programs. You can also participate in their online forums, newsletters, and social media platforms to interact with other members, exchange ideas, and learn from experts.

2 Attend events and conferences

Another way to meet and network with other control engineers is to attend events and conferences that are relevant to your interests and goals. These can be local, regional, national, or international events that showcase the latest research, trends, and innovations in control engineering and related fields. You can also look for opportunities to present your own work, volunteer, or join panels and discussions. By attending events and conferences, you can expose yourself to different perspectives, learn new skills, and make valuable contacts.

3 Seek mentorship and guidance

As a student, you can also benefit from seeking mentorship and guidance from experienced control engineers who can offer you advice, feedback, and support. You can find potential mentors through your associations and societies, your academic institution, your internship or co-op program, or your personal network. You can also use online platforms, such as LinkedIn, to reach out to control engineers who work in your desired industry, sector, or organization. When seeking mentorship, be respectful, professional, and clear about your expectations and goals. Try to maintain regular communication and follow up with your mentors.

4 Engage in online communities and platforms

Online communities and platforms are another great way to build your professional network in control engineering as a student. You can join groups, forums, blogs, podcasts, and newsletters that focus on control engineering and related topics. You can also create and share your own content, such as articles, videos, podcasts, or code snippets, to showcase your knowledge and skills. By engaging in online communities and platforms, you can increase your visibility, credibility, and reputation in the field. You can also learn from others, ask questions, answer queries, and start conversations.

5 Collaborate on projects and research

Finally, you can also network with other control engineers by collaborating on projects and research that interest you. You can look for opportunities to join or initiate collaborative projects within your academic institution, your associations and societies, or your online communities and platforms. You can also apply for grants, fellowships, or competitions that require or encourage teamwork. By collaborating on projects and research, you can demonstrate your abilities, learn from others, and create meaningful connections.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?