EDISON, NJ (TIP): The Society of Indo-American Engineers and Architects (SIAEA) held its biennial election last month. The new team headed by its president, Mr. Vikrant Sampat was sworn in at the Oath Ceremony held on May 9th, 2015 at Mirage Banquet in Edison, New Jersey. Mr. Sampat, a licensed professional engineer, is a principal at SUPERSTRUCTURES Engineers + Architects in Manhattan. In the recent elections, Mr. Shailesh Naik, a SIAEA Board Member and President of Charles A. Manganaro Consulting Engineers was voted as President-elect for the term starting in 2015.

The oath ceremony luncheon event was well attended by a distinguished guest list which included India‘s Deputy Consul General, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, New Jersey Senator Linda Greenstein, Mayor Peter Cantu of Plainsboro, and majority of SIAEA’s past presidents. They applauded SIAEA’s accomplishments and recognized the commitment of the professionals of Indian origin in Unites States. Encouraging words by the dignitaries expressed their appreciation of the entrepreneurial spirit and wholehearted assimilation within communities forming strong bonds.

Mr. Mihir Patel, Past President and trail-blazer, reviewed SIAEA’s achievements as he handed over the reins to the new leadership. During his term, SIAEA opened a new chapter in Philadelphia and set the ground work for Washington DC and Chicago. This serves as a blue print for future chapters, and collaborative networks across the nation.

Mr. Sampat was sworn in by Dr. Mohapatra, who in turn administered the Oath of Office for an enthusiastic and energetic Executive Committee. Building upon the accomplishments of SIAEA’s past presidents, and keeping every member in mind, Mr. Sampat shared his vision and purpose for the Society. Having been actively involved with the Society for many years, he is well aware of the potential and opportunities to unite engineers and architects of Indian origin for fostering collaboration, growth, and creating new opportunities.

The membership comprises of professionals of Indian origin, who are currently based in the United States and includes second or third generation, born here in the United States of America. While a large number of members work for government agencies, some are in private professional practice and yet some are in the construction industry. Mr. Sampat humbly acknowledged the talent present among the Society, which is committed to utilize their education and skills on a daily basis to better the quality of life for people around them.

Over the years SIAEA has reached many milestones including awarding over $200,000 in scholarships to engineering and architectural students; creating opportunities for new professional relationships; sponsoring technical seminars; organizing networking events; and strengthening the Society with a continually growing membership base. Mr. Sampat will take these initiatives further and introduce new ones. He called upon the membership to participate actively and use the collective knowledge and expertise to empower India and make a difference in the United States. He inspired all “to stretch our wings towards new horizons and move SIAEA forward”.

The body of dedicated professionals of Indian origin is remarkable, and has made tremendous contributions in United States. SIAEA was formed to provide a platform for professional development and collaboration. The bench of highly talented and committed professionals ready to serve the Society and their communities is deep, ensuring continuation of strong leadership.

The charming emcee for the ceremony was Mr. Heman Patel, who is also the President for the Philadelphia Chapter. He maintained an engaging and enjoyable rhythm for the afternoon. The Oath Ceremony was followed by lunch and a General Body Meeting. Financial statements and achievements were shared at the meeting. Information on SIAEAs professional seminars and networking events, is posted online at www.SIAEANY.org and members are kept updated via emails. Announcements were made for this year’s upcoming networking events which include a Dinner Cruise on August 2nd, a summer picnic on August 29th, and the Annual Gala on November 21st.

Keeping with the warm Indian traditions and hospitality, the networking events and professional seminars are open to friends and families. These are popular events, paying tribute to the larger community that makes professional endeavors possible and the world a better place.