Last week, a cohort of New York Institute of Technology students attended the 2025 Annual National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Convention in Chicago, Illinois. With over 15,000 attendees from across the country, the event was a dynamic gathering of aspiring engineers, seasoned professionals, and industry leaders—all united by the theme: “Inspire! Excel! Impact!” 

The NSBE National Convention, celebrating its 50th anniversary, welcomed students and professionals from a wide range of institutions and organizations for networking opportunities, panels, workshops, and interactive programming—all designed to equip attendees with the tools to thrive in academia, their careers, entrepreneurial pursuits, and beyond. Alongside these events, the NSBE team emphasized cultural responsibility, encouraging both emerging engineers and seasoned professionals to use their careers as a force for positive impact.

Over its four-day run, the Convention offered a dynamic and wide-ranging agenda. New York Tech students eagerly engaged in engineering workshops, technical exhibitions, panels with NSBE founders, professional networking mixers, research symposiums, and entrepreneurial pitch competitions—gaining meaningful insight into the evolving landscape of engineering, innovation, and research. Beyond the academic and professional programming, students also enjoyed lively community-building activities such as social shows, debate competitions, and group workouts, making the experience both enriching and memorable.

Most significant, however, was the expansive annual career fair, featuring top employers and tech companies represented by seasoned industry professionals. New York Tech students made the most of the opportunity—engaging with recruiters, exploring career paths, and landing interviews and internship offers that could shape their futures beyond graduation.

“I had the opportunity to speak with top companies like Dell, HP, and GE Vernova, GE Healthcare, and GE Aerospace. I made valuable connections with recruiters and fellow students representing their chapters. One of the highlights was receiving an exclusive invitation to a Dell suite. Through this event, I connected with a software engineering recruiter who was genuinely interested in what I had to say, and encouraged me to stay in touch…” — Christopher Shavuo, B.S. Information Technology

“Witnessing fellow New York Tech students secure interviews and internship offers has been incredibly inspiring. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our members. These moments highlight the importance of NSBE—not only in providing opportunities but in fostering a community where engineers can thrive. The sense of belonging and support NSBE provides is invaluable, and it’s this community that empowers us to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.” — Kachi Akubue, B.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology, NSBE President

The NSBE Convention concluded with an elegant awards ceremony honoring engineers of all ages and academic levels who have demonstrated exceptional excellence in their work. As attendees gathered in the auditorium to cheer on their peers, the event culminated in a powerful celebration of community — a reminder to New York Tech students that while they’ll pursue their engineering careers as individuals, they are never alone. They remain part of a vibrant, supportive network that will champion their growth every step of the way.

“One of the greatest strengths of NSBE Conventions is the power of in-person interaction. Sometimes, you find yourself chatting with someone at a modest-looking booth, only to realize they represent a multi-million-dollar company offering opportunities that align perfectly with your goals. Without NSBE, I might never have come across some of these companies—despite today’s digital age and tailored algorithms, nothing compares to the depth and authenticity of human connection.” — Aaron Nandlal, B.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering 

^{This article was contributed by Sophie Yoakum, Programs & Retention Coordinator, College of Engineering and Computing Sciences.}