The Dallas-Forth Worth Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) was established with a networking social in September 2005. A second social was held in October during the 2005 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition in conjunction with the Gulf Coast and Delta Section ELPs, recording an attendance of more than 100 people. The November social, which was held in Dallas, had attendance of more than 20 people. Dinner forums and luncheons focusing on soft skills are planned for early this year. The target audience is young engineers and professionals, but more-experienced members are welcome to attend as well.
As most sections have experienced during their startup, it can be quite difficult to reach out to young engineers and professionals when they are not aware of the existence, mission, or vision of the ELP. Another obstacle is selecting a location that is convenient for all members in an area as large as the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Slowly but surely, attendance at the ELP networking socials is increasing, especially because members are bringing friends and colleagues along. The challenge of bringing together the young engineers and professionals in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is being undertaken by Janice Menke, Jeff Carpenter, Adam Crisp, Darren Gollehon, and Steve Lipari.
New ELP members enjoy networking social.
