Volunteering with your IES Section

More than just giving back

When people see groups like ours reach out asking for volunteers, they often think of it as a call for them to give back. But its more than that! In fact, in many ways the organization gives to you when you volunteer with the Section. How can that be, you ask?

Well, here are just some of the benefits not talked about:

• Meeting and working with a great group of individuals, dedicated to elevating lighting practice
• Developing skills that may benefit you in your job
  • Working in Section planning committees on teams to deliver programs, education, events, social activities.
  • Lead on of our committees as chairperson to develop much needed leadership skills by managing teammates and delivering ambitious prokjects on time and on budget.
• Take advantage of oportunities to improve your public speaking through short announcements at luncheon meetings to opportunities to participate on panel discussions, present at meetings or teach, facilitate, or assist at lighting education opportunities
• Improve business writing skills by providing content for our website, social medai, or simply communicating with other members via email.  
• Have a direct line to the Board of Managers to suggests possible topics for technical luncheeon program meetings.
• Have access to a larger network of colleagues, including specifiers, suppliers, and potential clients.
• Increase your visibility among members of the entire local lighting community. Opportunities also present themselves to network beyond the Ottawa area across the province, the country and the USA. 

How to get involved

If you want to get involved, or just want to discuss the idea with us to decide if it is right for you, you can start by sending an email to info@iesottawa.ca

You will usually find our own Bob Bridges at the other end of that email link who will be happy to answer your question, or put you in touch with the appropriate member of the Board or a specific committee chair. Volunteering does require a certain commitment of time, but know you likely have a real job that demands the majority of your time. We will be happy to find something that matches what you are able to give in terms of time and energy