Event Management
Create an Event – Chicago Section and Society Chapter events created in vTools will automatically be included in the Chicago Section calendar
Documents
Member Documents*
- Expense Form – Concur, the new Volunteer Expense Reimbursement tool
- Operations Manual
Committee Document Archives
Documents are now archived with Collabratec in the ExecCom Records folder
*You may need to login to Collabgratec with your ieee.org account to access these links
Section History
The Chicago Section has the unique distinction as being the first American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) section formed outside New York. The first meeting of the Chicago Section was held on March 21, 1894, coinciding with the 85th meeting of the Institute in New York. The same paper “On the Effect of Heavy Gases in the Chamber of an Incandescent Lamp” was read and discussed simultaneously in Chicago and New York.
The importance of the World’s Columbian Exposition in the forming of the Chicago Section cannot be downplayed. It was no coincidence that the section’s founding was in the same year as the exposition.
In honor of 110th anniversary of this event, the Chicago Section staged a reenactment of the meeting on March 23, 2004 on the same campus where the original meeting was held. To learn more about the history of the Chicago Section and the 2004 reenactment. read about it here.
The 126th Anniversary was a virtual event you can see the agenda and access the presentations & videos here.
SCANFAX 2007-2008 Chicago Section Year in Review
Articles include:
– Dollars and Records Crucial When Defending Patents
– Integrating Wind Power Into Existing Grids Can Be Tricky
– 2008 Washington Award Winner Tackles Technical Talent Shortage
– As Products Change, So Does Safety Testing
– Keeping One Step Ahead of the Spammers and Phishers
– VoIP: You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet…
– Tomorrow’s Electric Grid Will Not Be Today’s
e-SCANFAX Archives
The Chicago Section’s published and mailed a newsletter called SCANFAX. In 2008 is was changed to e-SCANFAX a PDF sent through email. Starting in 2015 this was changed to a blog which is available on this site as News Articles,

2014
2013
2012
2011
ExCom Positions Descriptions
Vice-Chair
The Vice-Chair plays a key leadership role within the Section, working closely with the Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and Executive Committee (ExCom)
Responsibilities include:
- Support and coordinate the activities of Society Chapters, Affinity Groups, Sub-sections, and other IEEE Organisational Units.
- Lead strategic initiatives that advance member engagement and technical programs.
- Represent the Section in Region 4 meetings and serve as Acting Chair in the Chair’s absence.
- Assist in planning Section-wide events, conferences, and student outreach programs.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 6–8 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 16 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns
- Term length: This position is a volunteer leadership role, typically serving a one-year term (2026), with eligibility to advance to the Section Chair role in the subsequent term, as per IEEE Chicago bylaws.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Prior experience in Section, Chapter, or Student Branch leadership is strongly encouraged.
Treasurer
The Treasurer is a key officer of the Section and plays a central role in maintaining the financial health and transparency of the organization.
Responsibilities include:
- Managing Section accounts and overseeing all financial transactions in accordance with IEEE policies.
- Preparing and presenting financial reports to the Executive Committee (ExCom) and IEEE Region 4.
- Coordinating reimbursements, sponsorships, and event budgets.
- Supporting annual budget planning and assisting in Section financial audits.
- Working closely with the Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary to ensure fiscal compliance and accountability.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns
- This is a volunteer leadership role serving a one-year term (2026) with eligibility to advance to the Section Vice-Chair role in the subsequent term, as per IEEE Chicago bylaws.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing within the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Prior experience with Section, Chapter, or organizational financial management is desirable but not mandatory.
- Familiarity with IEEE financial tools (e.g., NetSuite, CB accounts, Concur) is a plus.
Secretary
The Secretary serves as a vital officer of the Section, ensuring accurate documentation, smooth communication, and compliance with IEEE governance requirements.
Key responsibilities include:
- Recording and maintaining minutes of Executive Committee (ExCom) meetings.
- Managing official correspondence, notices, and records for the Section.
- Assisting with annual reporting in IEEE’s vTools system and maintaining historical documentation.
- Coordinating meeting schedules and ensuring timely communication with Section officers, chapters, and sub-units.
- Supporting the Chair and Vice-Chair in Section operations and elections.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns
- This is a volunteer leadership role serving a one-year term (2026) and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Prior experience in IEEE volunteer roles, organizational administration, or meeting coordination is desirable.
- Strong written communication and organizational skills are highly valued.
Awards Chair
The Awards Chair leads the Section’s recognition program, which honors outstanding contributions by members, volunteers, students, and organizations within the IEEE Chicago community.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing the Section’s annual awards process, including nominations, evaluations, and selections.
- Coordinating with the Chair, ExCom, and Region 4 Awards Committee to ensure timely submissions for Section, Region, and MGA-level recognitions.
- Maintaining historical records of awardees and improving visibility of award programs.
- Promoting a culture of recognition and celebrating excellence across Chapters, Affinity Groups, and Student Branches.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 2–3 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during Section Awards Season.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must hold IEEE Senior Member grade or higher.
- Should have a high professional reputation within the IEEE community or have served as a past officer of an IEEE Section, Chapter, or Region.
- Strong familiarity with IEEE organizational structure and award nomination processes is highly desirable.
- Excellent communication and coordination skills are essential.
Communications Chair
The Communications Chair plays a key role in shaping the Section’s public presence and ensuring effective communication across all platforms. This position is ideal for a proactive individual with strong public relations skills, creativity, and a passion for member engagement.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing and coordinating Section-wide communications, including newsletters, announcements, and social media updates.
- Working closely with the Chair, Vice-Chair, and Program Chairs to promote events, conferences, and activities.
- Maintaining consistent and professional branding across the Section’s website, email communications, and social media channels.
- Responding promptly to inquiries and ensuring timely dissemination of information to members and partners.
- Supporting outreach efforts to enhance IEEE’s visibility in the Chicago area.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 2–3 hours per week
- Peak periods: Up to 12 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member ( any grade ) in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Strong public relations, writing, and communication skills are essential.
- Experience with digital communications, marketing, or social media management is desirable.
- Must demonstrate responsiveness, reliability, and timely follow-up in communications.
Industry Engagement Chair
The Industry Engagement Chair plays a vital role in strengthening relationships between IEEE and the professional and industrial communities across the greater Chicago area. This position is ideally suited for a senior professional with broad industry experience, strong connections, and a high reputation within the engineering and technology community.
Key responsibilities include:
- Build and Strengthen Industry Relationships: Establish partnerships with local companies, startups, and R&D organizations to encourage collaboration with IEEE activities, technical societies, and educational programs.
- Promote Industry Participation in IEEE Events: Engage industry professionals as speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, or panelists in Section conferences, workshops, and networking events.
- Develop Industry-Focused Programs: Organize events, webinars, and technology talks that address emerging industrial trends (AI, sustainability, robotics, quantum, etc.) and demonstrate IEEE’s relevance to practitioners.
- Foster Academia–Industry Collaboration: Bridge connections between universities, research centers, and local companies to support internships, joint projects, and workforce development.
- Support Membership and Sponsorship Growth: Encourage corporate memberships, promote IEEE benefits for employers, and identify potential sponsors for Section and Chapter events.
- Coordinate with Region and IEEE USA Committees: Align local activities with broader IEEE Industry Engagement and IEEE-USA professional development initiatives; share best practices with other Sections.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher), in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Should have a high professional reputation and active connections within the engineering or technology industry.
- Experience in leadership, business development, or industry outreach is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated commitment to advancing IEEE’s mission and values through professional engagement.
Membership Development Chair
The Membership Development Chair plays a central role in growing and sustaining the IEEE community across the Chicago area. This position focuses on engaging current members, recruiting new ones, and helping members advance in their IEEE grades. It is ideally suited for a proactive and organized individual who is passionate about professional networking and volunteer development.
Key responsibilities
- Grow and Retain Membership: Develop and implement strategies to increase IEEE membership across all grades (Students, Members, Senior Members, Fellows) and improve retention year over year.
- Coordinate Senior Member Elevations: Organize at least one Senior Member Elevation event annually, identify eligible candidates, and support them through the nomination process.
- Engage with Chapters, Affinity Groups, and Student Branches: Collaborate with local units to promote membership benefits, professional development, and transitions from Student → Member → Senior Member grades.
- Track and Report Membership Metrics: Use IEEE OU Analytics and SAMIEEE tools to monitor Section membership trends, analyze gains/losses, and report insights during ExCom meetings.
- Promote IEEE Benefits and Volunteerism: Conduct outreach (emails, presentations, or events) to communicate IEEE value propositions, encourage renewals, and motivate volunteers to take active roles.
- Collaborate with Region and MGA Teams: Coordinate with the Region 4 Membership Development team, share best practices, and align Section efforts with global IEEE membership initiatives.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during membership drives and Senior Member events.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Senior Member grade or higher) in good standing within the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills with enthusiasm for community building.
- Experience in IEEE leadership, outreach, or event coordination is desirable.
- Excellent communication and follow-up skills are essential.
Nominations and Appointments Chair
The Nominations and Appointments (N&A) Chair plays a vital role in ensuring transparency, fairness, and continuity in the Section’s leadership structure. This position oversees the nomination and appointment processes for Section officers and committee members, ensuring compliance with IEEE bylaws and fostering strong volunteer leadership succession.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the Section’s nomination and appointment process, including officer and committee selections.
- Ensuring all nomination procedures comply with IEEE and Region 4 governance guidelines.
- Working closely with the Election Committee to ensure fair and timely communication with candidates.
- Maintaining records of past appointments and assisting in leadership succession planning.
- Providing impartial advice to the Section Chair and Executive Committee regarding leadership vacancies and appointments.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 2-3 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during Section Election Season
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE Member or higher garde, in good standing within the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Should have a high professional reputation, with experience as a past Section, Chapter, or Region officer.
- Must demonstrate neutrality, fairness, and discretion in handling leadership matters.
Familiarity with IEEE organizational structure and governance policies is strongly preferred.
Professional Activities Committees for Engineers (PACE) Chair
The PACE Chair leads initiatives that enhance the professional growth, career development, and policy awareness of IEEE members within the Chicago Section. This position focuses on empowering engineers through leadership training, career advancement programs, and collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
Key responsibilities include:
- Planning and executing career development workshops, leadership seminars, and professional skills training for engineers and students.
- Representing the Section in IEEE-USA PACE activities and coordinating with Region 4 PACE leadership.
- Promoting awareness of public policy, engineering ethics, and workforce development among members.
- Collaborating with the Industry Engagement, Membership Development, and Student Activities Chairs to strengthen professional programming across all levels.
- Reporting PACE activities and outcomes to the Section Executive Committee (ExCom) and IEEE-USA.
- Work with Region and Section Educational Activities Chairs to organize events eligible for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or Professional Development Hours (PDHs).
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing within the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Demonstrated interest in professional development, education, or career advancement programs.
- Prior experience organizing technical or professional events is desirable.
· Familiarity with CEU/PDH requirements or coordination with licensing boards is an advantage.
SPAx Chair
The SPAx Chair leads initiatives that connect IEEE Student Members with professional development opportunities and the broader engineering community. This role is central to fostering collaboration between student branches, industry professionals, and Section leadership to help students develop essential career and leadership skills.
Key responsibilities include:
- Organizing Student Professional Awareness (SPAx) events focused on topics such as career growth, ethics, innovation, and leadership.
- Collaborating with Student Branch Counselors, Section officers, and Region 4 Student Activities to enhance student engagement.
- Securing funding and resources for SPAx programs through IEEE and industry partnerships.
- Promoting pathways for student members to transition into active Young Professionals and Section volunteers.
- Encouraging diversity, inclusion, and professional awareness across all IEEE Chicago Section student communities.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Experience with student activities, mentorship, or event coordination is highly desirable.
- Strong communication, organization, and outreach skills.
- Passion for supporting students’ professional development and IEEE engagement.
Student Activities Chair
The Student Activities Chair (SAC) plays a pivotal role in inspiring and guiding the next generation of IEEE members by supporting Student Branches, Student Branch Chapters, and university engagement activities throughout the Chicago area. This position focuses on developing programs that encourage student leadership, technical growth, and participation in IEEE initiatives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Serving as the primary liaison between the Section and all IEEE Student Branches within the region.
- Coordinating with Student Branch Counselors and Faculty Advisors to strengthen student participation in IEEE activities.
- Supporting the establishment and revitalization of Student Branches and Student Branch Chapters.
- Collaborating with the Region 4 Student Activities Committee, SPAx Chair, and Educational Activities leaders on student-focused programs and competitions.
- Encouraging student transitions to Young Professionals and fostering volunteer leadership development.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 6–8 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing within the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Experience working with students, universities, or educational outreach programs is highly desirable.
- Strong organizational, mentorship, and communication skills are essential.
Familiarity with IEEE Student Branch operations or Region-level student activities is a plus.
Student Activities Representative
The Student Activities Representative (SAR) serves as the voice of IEEE student members within the Chicago Section Executive Committee (ExCom). This position provides an opportunity for a student leader to represent the perspectives, interests, and needs of local IEEE Student Branches and to collaborate closely with Section and Region leadership.
Key responsibilities include:
- Representing student members in Section planning meetings and contributing to decisions that impact student engagement.
- Coordinating with the Student Activities Chair and SPAx Chair to organize student-focused programs, competitions, and workshops.
- Facilitating communication between Student Branches across universities in the Chicago area.
- Encouraging student participation in IEEE events and leadership roles.
- Nominate Students and Student Branches for the section and region awards
- Work with the Region SAC in organissing Region Student Leadership Conference
- Promoting transition from student membership to Young Professionals after graduation.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be a current IEEE Student Member in good standing within the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university located within the Section’s geographic area.
- Active participation in an IEEE Student Branch is required; prior leadership experience (e.g., Branch Officer) is desirable.
- Demonstrated interest in IEEE activities, student outreach, or professional development.
YP Affinity group Chair
The Young Professionals (YP) Affinity Group Chair leads one of the most dynamic parts of the IEEE community — early-career members within ten years of their first professional degree. The YP Chair guides the group’s vision and activities, helping young engineers and technologists develop leadership, networking, and professional growth opportunities.
While the YP Affinity Group operates independently from the Section, it collaborates closely with the IEEE Chicago Executive Committee (ExCom) to align on shared goals and regional initiatives. The YP Chair has the freedom to define the group’s own vision, programs, and agenda to best serve local professionals.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the IEEE Chicago Young Professionals Affinity Group and setting its annual vision and objectives.
- Organizing networking events, career development workshops, and industry outreach programs.
- Building partnerships with local companies, universities, and other IEEE units.
- Encouraging active participation of early-career members in IEEE activities, conferences, and leadership roles.
- Representing the Chicago YP community at Region 4 and IEEE global YP meetings.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an IEEE member (Member grade or higher) in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Strong leadership, event organization, communication skills, and the ability to develop vision and objectives for the group.
- Demonstrated commitment to IEEE activities or early-career professional engagement.
Life Member Chair
The Life Member Affinity Group (LMAG) is a vibrant and experienced community within IEEE, composed of members who have achieved Life Member status through years of professional and volunteer service. The LMAG Chair leads this group in planning programs, mentoring activities, and outreach efforts that leverage the deep expertise of senior IEEE members.
While the LMAG operates independently from the IEEE Chicago Section, it collaborates with the Section Executive Committee (ExCom) on matters of mutual interest. The LMAG defines and pursues its own vision, agenda, and initiatives, aligned with the broader goals of IEEE and the Life Members Committee.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and organizing Life Member Affinity Group meetings, events, and outreach programs.
- Promoting professional, educational, and historical activities reflecting the legacy and future of IEEE.
- Supporting mentorship programs that connect Life Members with students and early-career professionals.
- Representing the Chicago LMAG at Region 4 Life Member Committee meetings and IEEE events.
- Coordinating with the Section Chair, Region 4 LMAG Coordinator, and other Affinity Groups when needed.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must hold IEEE Life Member status and be in good standing with the IEEE Chicago Section.
- Prior experience in IEEE leadership, education, or outreach is desirable.
- Strong organizational and communication skills, with enthusiasm for mentoring and community building.
- Commitment to promoting the heritage and continued engagement of IEEE Life Members.
Educational Activities Chair
The Educational Activities Chair plays a key role in advancing IEEE’s mission to promote engineering education, professional development, and lifelong learning within the Chicago community.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead and coordinate educational programs and initiatives for professionals, students, and the community.
- Collaborate with local universities, student branches, and industry partners to organize workshops, seminars, and continuing education events.
- Support STEM outreach and pre-university educational efforts in alignment with IEEE Educational Activities Board (EAB) goals.
- Promote awareness of IEEE learning resources, certifications, and continuing education opportunities.
- Work with other section officers and committees to integrate education into section-wide activities.
Estimated Time Commitment:
- Average: 4–6 hours per month
- Peak periods: Up to 10 hours per month during major events or sponsorship campaigns.
- Term length: This is a volunteer leadership position serving a one-year term (2026) with option to extend and is part of the IEEE Chicago Section Executive Committee.
Eligibility
- Must be an active IEEE member in good standing (Member, Senior Member, or Fellow grade).
Prior volunteer or leadership experience within IEEE or educational programs is desirable but not mandatory.
