SHPE National Convention in Anaheim, Oct 30 - Nov 3, Celebrates 50 Years

The 2024 SHPE National Convention will take place from October 30 to November 3 at the Anaheim Convention Center, marking a significant milestone as the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary. This event is expected to attract around 15,000 participants, including students, professionals, and industry leaders, making it the largest gathering of Hispanic talent in STEM across the nation. With over 350 exhibitors and 700 interview booths, the convention aims to connect attendees with top recruiters and provide valuable networking opportunities. The event will feature a variety of professional development activities, including workshops, speaker presentations, and competitions, designed to empower Hispanic students and professionals in their careers. A two-day Career Fair & Graduate School Expo will showcase job opportunities from leading companies such as Google, Apple, and Lockheed Martin, among others. This initiative is crucial as only a small percentage of STEM jobs are currently held by Hispanic professionals, highlighting the need for increased representation in these fields. The SHPE organization emphasizes the importance of role models in STEM, as research indicates that a significant majority of U.S. Hispanics believe such figures can inspire young individuals to pursue careers in these areas. The convention will also honor outstanding contributions to the Hispanic community in STEM through the STAR Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made a positive impact. As the demand for STEM professionals continues to grow, with projections of 10.9 million job openings by 2031, the SHPE National Convention serves as a vital platform for fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry, ultimately aiming to position the U.S. as a leader in STEM innovation.