Creating long lasting connections

Meet Diego Valencia, a senior controls engineer, who has been a member since 2019. Originally from Colombia, he now lives in Canada where he develops controls for electrified vehicles, bridges research and development activities to production, and leads innovation in the transportation electrification field at Stellantis.

His journey with us began during his PhD programme in Toronto, where he participated in our Present Around the World (PATW) competition, with the Toronto Local Network (LN). Advancing to the regional heats, Diego said the experience introduced him to the engaging community of volunteers, staff and professionals associated with the IET. Hearing about all the networking opportunities, coupled with the warm welcome he received, Diego was inspired to join.

Volunteering for the IET

He began volunteering for the Toronto LN and was appointed as a Young Professional Ambassador for the Americas region.

“It was initially about the travel and networking opportunities,” Diego remarks on what had encouraged him to join. “Getting to meet people from around the world and working in diverse areas of engineering and technology. I found in the IET the perfect opportunity to fulfil this objective.”

Having spent more time volunteering, his perspective evolved, and Diego found that his involvement with the IET became even more meaningful. “After a few years of active volunteering, the initial appeal of travelling and networking changed. It evolved into a journey focused on building lasting friendships, developing new skills, learning about cutting-edge tech applications, and working on impactful projects.”

One of Diego’s unique experiences as an IET member was a visit to a water treatment plant in Hong Kong. As a member of the Young Professionals Committee (YPC), he has visited multiple high-tech facilities and learned from the expertise of professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs – and even CEOs.

IET membership offers opportunities

“My favourite thing about being an IET member is the incredible opportunities it offers for personal and professional growth,” he says. “These experiences have been incredibly rewarding and have provided me with insights and knowledge that I can carry forward in my career. I wouldn’t have had such opportunities without the IET.”

For young engineers considering becoming an IET member, Diego advises focusing on developing skills and building a strong network. “You may not immediately see how everything fits together but remember that the dots are connected backwards. You’ll only understand how your skills are useful and applicable when the time comes. Stay committed to learning and connecting with others as the more activities and people you can interact with, the more chances you get to gain skills and contacts that could define your career path.”

Diego’s experience with us shows the power of our strong community of members and volunteers and serves as inspiration for all young engineers looking to make a difference in their careers.

“The volunteering journey is constantly evolving but it’s the blend of professional development and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects that makes being an IET member truly rewarding.”