In March, more than 30 students and staff travelled to Atlanta to participate in the 50th National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Convention. The Convention allowed students to network, build connections and meet inspiring individuals in the engineering field at a four-day event with more than 15,000 attendees, 400 career fair exhibitors and more than 5,000 NSBE members. The goal of NSBE is to increase the number of culturally responsible black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.

Members of the College’s NSBE student chapter travelled to Atlanta with a specific goal in mind, which was to build connections and secure job opportunities. “Attending NSBE 50 was an extraordinary experience where engaging with fellow engineers was truly enlightening, exposing me to diverse companies and reinforcing my career trajectory,” said Matthan Mbanefo ’25, mechatronic engineering student and president of Vaughn’s NSBE chapter. “The sense of community among engineers, particularly the representation of black engineers, was profoundly empowering. Our growth each year serves as a testament to our boundless potential.”

During the Conventions, students had the chance to meet astronaut Victor Glover, who lived aboard the International Space Station from October 2020 to April 2021, and is the pilot for the Artemis 2 mission and will be the first African American to orbit the Moon. “One of the highlights of the week was meeting one of my biggest inspirations, astronaut Victor Glover,” said Ean Chambers ’26, mechatronic engineering student. “Just one of the moments to remember from an amazing experience!”

To learn more about NSBE, click here.