History of Pathways

IEEE-HKN members touch the lives of people around the globe through their innovative solutions to grand challenges. Our engineering and technical professionals are visionary leaders with heart. IEEE-HKN is the difference that nurtures promising students to become the technical leaders our world needs to address global issues. IEEE-HKN students graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to confidently take the next step in their career, while remaining committed to volunteering and improving the lives of others through the use of technology.

Since the merger of IEEE and HKN in 2010, our two organizations have joined forces to elevate the IEEE-HKN difference to new levels of impact. Our combined organization is uniquely positioned to have a great impact. To accomplish this, the IEEE-HKN Board of Governors established a 5-year strategic vision to accomplish the mission and vision of IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu.

A Key Program – The IEEE-HKN Pathways to Industry Conference

The overarching mission and vision to recognize excellence in scholarship, attitude and character is accomplished through several key programs.

One of the critical methods to achieve this mission is through the annual Pathways to Industry Conference (Pathways). Developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, this annual event is open to everyone regardless of whether you are a member of IEEE-HKN with the goal of bringing together experts in academia, industry, and IEEE Societies to help students and professionals at all stages be prepared for today’s technology careers. The event features keynote addresses by distinguished techologists, practical advice from companies looking to hire, and interactive sessions and panels featuring the latest trends and the necessary skills to land the perfect position. This virtual conference will be hosted on the Airmeet platform allowing for a full, interactive conference experience including networking, a recruitment fair, and embedded chat and video calls. By varying the start and end times of each day, the conference accommodates a world-wide audience.

This event is truly a unique opportunity to learn the real world applications of what is taught in school and to excite and inspire our attendees to seek out opportunities and hone their technical and necessary soft skills. Over the brief years that it has been offered, HKN members and leaders have looked back on this experience and talk about how it helped them make the contacts and connections that have led to success in their professional lives.  Offered at a very low cost to students, IEEE members and non-members, the Pathways to Industry Conference is funded by donations and industry sponsors.  If you would like to donate to assure that each year HKN can deliver this important experience, please consider making a personal contribution or involving your company as a sponsor.