INNOVATION November-December 2015

member engagemen t

Association Enhances Volunteer Program

Emiline Willson

From the association's beginnings in 1920, dedicated volunteers have been at the heart of APEGBC’s work as the self- regulating body for BC’s engineers and geoscientists. Currently, approximately 1,300 volunteers play a part in every aspect of the association—from registration to education and setting and upholding practice standards. Because of engaged participation from our membership, APEGBC contributes real value to society. In exchange, our volunteers feel a true sense of satisfaction in knowing they are giving back to the professions of engineering and geoscience. They contribute their knowledge and ideas, learn from one another, and expand their professional networks. Whether it’s reviewing registration applications, judging at science fairs, speaking in schools, sitting on committees, or acting as a mentor in the APEGBC mentoring program (to name a few possibilities), every position results in valuable experience and contributions. “Volunteering with APEGBC allows me to inspire the next generation to follow their dreams and make a positive change in the world,” says Derek Bartley, EIT, who volunteered at the APEGBC booth during Science World’s Around the Dome celebration in September. “It also allows me to give back to the people and communities that influenced me.” Over the past year, APEGBC has enhanced its volunteer management program to engage and support its volunteers. We have updated the association website and now use social media to inform members about how to get involved and the different opportunities available. We put a new, simplified and centralised application process in place online to increase accessibility and ease of use. Members and licensees can now apply directly to

an available position if they choose. We continue to make general online application forms available for those who don’t see an opportunity of interest available at the time, but wish to be considered. “The online volunteer application system has helped us in many ways,” says Hamid Ghanbari, P.Eng., and Chair, Richmond/Delta Branch. “The system has helped us to reach a wider range of applicants and recruit both members and non- members for branch positions and events as well as events of our partner organizations—for example, recruiting judges for annual Greater Vancouver Science Fair and assistants and judges for the annual Kwantlen Science Challenge.” The enhancements have not only demonstrated results through feedback, they have significantly increased the number of applications, the number of new volunteers, and the number of female volunteers. New volunteers are volunteers who had not previously volunteered with the association in any capacity. Developing new and enhancing current skills is something members also find is a benefit of being an APEGBC volunteer. As we expand the association’s volunteer management program, we will provide training and development opportunities to volunteers. As well, based on the feedback received during a focus group and survey of APEGBC volunteers last year, we are currently developing a recognition program. We look forward to further supporting our volunteers in effective and meaningful ways. With the variety of opportunities to explore interests, contribute expertise and network, we encourage members who have never volunteered with APEGBC to get involved. For more information, visit apeg.bc.ca/For-Members/Volunteer. v

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