IEEE: What Consumers Want vs. Tech's Perception

Generated Title: IEEE's New Guard: Fresh Faces, Familiar Challenges?

The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) has announced its latest Board of Directors, featuring Antonio Luque, Ravinder Dahiya, and Joseph Wei. A quick glance suggests a diverse group, spanning academia, research, and the entrepreneurial landscape. But does this new leadership signal a genuine shift in direction, or is it simply a reshuffling of the deck chairs?

The Talent Roster

Luque's background is firmly rooted in academia, with a focus on biomedical applications and cybersecurity. His involvement in IEEE dates back to 2002, steadily climbing the ranks (from IEEE Industrial Electronics Society to Region 8 director). Dahiya brings a research-heavy profile, specializing in flexible electronics and robotic tactile sensing. His work during the pandemic (low-cost ventilators, smart bandages) highlights a practical, problem-solving approach. Wei, a Silicon Valley veteran, adds an entrepreneurial angle, mentoring startups and driving innovation. One of his portfolio companies recently went public, valued at over $3 billion. That's a hefty return, even by Silicon Valley standards.

The question, though, is how effectively these individual strengths translate into collective leadership. Each director brings a specific area of expertise, but the challenge lies in synthesizing these perspectives into a cohesive strategy for the IEEE as a whole. Will Luque's academic focus align with Dahiya's research-driven agenda and Wei's entrepreneurial mindset? And, more importantly, will these internal dynamics lead to tangible benefits for IEEE members and the broader engineering community?

Dahiya's development of the first energy-generating tactile skin is interesting. He developed a device that generates energy and provides feedback, which can operate actuators used by robots. But what are the practical applications of this technology outside of robotics? How does it translate into real-world solutions that benefit society?

Wei's experience with the IEEE Standards Association and the development of the IEEE 802.11 standard (Wi-Fi) is noteworthy. Wi-Fi has indeed transformed industries and enabled the digital economy. However, it's also created a digital divide, exacerbating inequalities in access to information and technology. What steps will Wei take to address these unintended consequences and ensure that technological advancements benefit all members of society, not just a privileged few?

A Look Under the Hood

The IEEE touts its commitment to "advancing technology for the benefit of humanity." A noble goal, to be sure, but one that requires constant evaluation and adaptation. The organization's website boasts over 486,000 members across various STEM disciplines. That's a substantial network, but sheer size doesn't guarantee impact. The key question is whether the IEEE is effectively leveraging this network to drive meaningful change.

I've looked at hundreds of these organizational announcements, and this is the part of the report that I find genuinely puzzling.

One area where the IEEE could improve is in promoting greater diversity and inclusion within its ranks. While the organization has made strides in recent years, women and underrepresented minorities remain significantly underrepresented in leadership positions and technical fields. According to the IEEE's own data, women make up only about 20% of its membership. Is the organization doing enough to address this gender imbalance and create a more inclusive environment for all engineers?

Another area of concern is the IEEE's role in shaping the future of technology policy. As technology becomes increasingly intertwined with society, it's crucial for organizations like the IEEE to engage in informed and responsible policy discussions. However, the IEEE's policy positions are often perceived as being too cautious or reactive, rather than proactive and forward-thinking. How can the IEEE become a more influential voice in shaping the ethical and societal implications of emerging technologies?

The IEEE's financial health is another factor to consider. While the organization is a non-profit, it still relies on revenue from membership fees, publications, and conferences to fund its activities. The IEEE's total revenue in 2024 was approximately $540 million (to be more exact, $542.8 million), with expenses of $520 million. That leaves a surplus of around $20 million. How is the IEEE using this surplus to invest in future initiatives and ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization? Details on this allocation of resources are scarce, but the impact is clear.

So, What's the Real Story?

The IEEE's new board members bring impressive credentials to the table. But their individual accomplishments don't automatically translate into effective leadership. The challenge lies in harnessing their collective expertise to address the complex challenges facing the engineering profession and ensure that technology truly benefits humanity. The jury's still out on whether this new guard can deliver on that promise.