Computer Science and Engineering student, Joanne Bruno, is the Student Engineers’ Council executive secretary at Texas A&M University. The Student Engineers’ Council (SEC) is the representative body for all students in the Dwight Look College of Engineering. SEC consists of more than 100 members. Its mission is to serve as the representative voice, spread engineering awareness and foster the professional advancement of the college. It hosts prospective student conferences, the college student survey, the first year engineering 111/112 departmental/industry presentations, and the largest student-run career fair in the nation.
Bruno was elected executive secretary for the 2014-2015 academic year. Her involvement with the organization began her freshman year at Texas A&M. She served as a team leader for SEC’s prospective student conferences each semester (Future A&M Engineers and Engineering EXPO). During that time, she was able to establish departmental contacts and organize the departmental tours and booth at the fair for the students in attendance interested in learning more about the various engineering disciplines.
?She was also actively involved in various areas throughout SEC, including marketing, serving as a volunteer for the career fair, assisting ENGR 111/112 presentations, and participating in philanthropic events.
Bruno’s primary responsibility as the SEC executive secretary is to serve on the executive board as a basis for effective communication between all of the members of the council. She uses her computer skills to constantly invigorate communication by integrating technology to their advantage. Her tasks include, but are not limited to, the meeting minutes and agendas, the SEC calendar, and the by-laws.
This is an exciting time for the council as it is an active part of the 25 by 25 initiative.
”I am grateful for the unique opportunity to work with the leaders of the college, including Dr. Katherine M. Banks (vice chancellor and dean of engineering) and the department heads," Bruno said. "SEC has opened many doors for me in regards to professionalism and leadership."
Students can become involved with the council in several ways. Students can become members, join a professional society that is represented in the council, or simply attend any of the Student Engineers’ Council's various events throughout the school year.
The SEC general council meetings, which are held every Monday evening at 8:15 PM, are open to all engineering students. Individuals can attend these meetings to learn more about what the council does and voice their opinion about issues facing the college.