Did you know that you can induct professionals and faculty into your HKN Chapter?
Inducting professional members is not just allowed; it is highly encouraged. It strengthens your Chapter’s connection to the department, creates mentorship opportunities for student members, and builds a robust alumni and professional network that lasts for decades. This is a critical component of a thriving HKN Chapter so let’s make sure the process is clear…
Who is eligible?
HKN professional membership, like student membership, must be earned. While you are not looking at GPAs, you are looking at professional equivalents.
Candidates must embody the core values of Eta Kappa Nu:
- Outstanding scholarship (evidenced by their career achievements and contributions).
- Impeccable character (high ethical standards, community involvement)
- A dedication to lifelong learning and service.
Vetting should be based on a candidate’s record of contributions to the field, demonstrated leadership, and community service.
You are encouraged to look at:
- Department/University Leadership
- Faculty Members: Professors, lecturers, and researchers at your university, working within the IEEE Technical Fields of Interest
- Industry Professionals: Distinguished engineers and leaders in local industry whom your Chapter deems eligible.
To be eligible, a professional candidate must meet one of the following two technical criteria:
- Be a member of the Faculty at your Chapter’s host university. OR
- Have been a practicing engineer for at least 10 years in the technical fields of interest of the IEEE.
Calculating “Years of Service” (Education Credits)
Education receives credit toward those 10 required years of service.
Be Advised: Education credit is NOT cumulative. You only apply the highest degree earned.
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent): credited with 3 years of professional service.
- Master’s degree (or equivalent): credited with 4 years of professional service.
- PhD degree (or equivalent): credited with 5 years of professional service.
Example: If an industry professional has a PhD, they are credited with 5 years of service. They need 5 additional years of active engineering practice to meet the 10-year requirement.
How to Include Professionals
Inducting a professional is simpler for a university Chapter than you might think. Unlike nominations to the Board of Governors’ Eta Chapter, there is no formal nomination process required for university Chapters wishing to induct professionals.
However, there is one non-negotiable prerequisite:
All professionals wishing to join HKN MUST have an active IEEE membership at the time of induction.
If they do not have an active IEEE membership, they are not eligible to join HKN.
Next Steps for Chapter Leaders
If your Chapter does not already induct professionals, we encourage you to think about doing so. Extending an invitation to them not only honors their achievements but secures the future mentorship and network of your Chapter. Professionals joining your Chapter should be included in the next induction ceremony (and induction form) right alongside the student candidates.
If you have questions about inducting professionals, please contact us.
