The Emerging Leaders in Engineering (ELE) programs empower undergraduate students to develop crucial leadership skills, including mentoring, motivating others, effective public speaking, taking initiative, and navigating ambiguity. These skills equip students to effectively engage in leading efforts of engineering for the public good.
Application timeline
There is one application process for Emerging Leaders in Engineering to be considered for any/all of the associated programs: Engineering Ambassadors, Engineering Design Coaches, or Engineering Peer Educators. You are encouraged to rank any/all programs you would be interested in participating in. Ranking multiple positions will not impact your chances of being selected for your first choice. You are also welcome to apply to a single program.
Apply by January 20 to become an Engineering Ambassador, Engineering Design Coach, or Engineering Peer Educator.
The ELE programs are an excellent opportunity to gain real-world leadership experience and develop professional skills all while receiving academic credit and scholarship funds! Some program benefits are:
- Develop valuable skills and experience to contribute to your resume including effective public speaking and communication, mentoring and motivating others, leadership & teamwork in diverse groups, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- Build community: welcome and support new members of our community while connecting with your peers across all College of Engineering undergraduate majors
- Two credits and transcripted leadership experience for completing ENGR 490: Engineering Leadership in Spring quarter
- EPEs receive an additional one credit for completing ENGR 491: Peer Education Practicum in Autumn quarter
- Due to the support of generous donors, we provide an anticipated award amount of up to $1,800 in scholarships distributed throughout the academic year
- Access to additional professional development events and opportunities
The basic eligibility requirements for participation in all programs:
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student in the College of Engineering at UW Seattle with completion of at least one quarter.
- Students in the Paul Allen School (Computer Science or Computer Engineering) are eligible to apply to be an Engineering Design Coach only. The Allen School manages a peer advising program that is similar to the Engineering Peer Educators and an ambassador program that CSE students are encouraged to consider. Students in Bioresource Science and Engineering (BSE) Major are not eligible for ELE. Please see the SEFS Ambassador program for similar opportunity within your major.
- A minimum of a 2.00 cumulative GPA
- Anticipated graduation date of Spring 2026 or later
- Good standing with the Community Standards and Student Conduct Office
- Ability to fulfill all outlined time commitments and responsibilities from Winter 2025 through Spring 2026
ELE programs
Engineering Ambassadors (EAs)
Connect with K-14 students to inspire interest in the engineering field and to share engineering opportunities at the UW. You'll share your passion for engineering with the next generation.
Engineering Design Coaches (EDCs)
Design and lead hands-on workshops in the makerspaces for undergraduate students. Share your passions and interests with your peers and teach them skills that they can apply through the rest of their college experience.
Engineering Peer Educators (EPEs)
Mentor new engineering undeclared students through their transition to the College of Engineering by facilitating the GEN ST 199 component of Engineering FIGs in autumn quarter.
"My time as an EA has helped me become more confident in myself as an engineer. I feel more empowered in my studies and in helping inspire the future generation to get excited about engineering. I know that the skills I've cultivated here--public speaking, active engagement, having constructive conversation--will serve me well in the future.”
Sierra Kasl-Godley, Engineering Ambassador 2023-2025
We are grateful for support from our organizational partners
