This issue of ITE Journal emphasizes the importance of community engagement in transportation projects. While my formal education was strong, it didn’t focus on the skills necessary for effective community engagement. One of my professors at Purdue remarked that civil engineering—unlike most other engineering disciplines—directly involves people. Transportation engineering and planning perfectly embody this, as people are central to our work—whether they’re driving, riding, or walking. Thus, developing the ability to engage communities and people is crucial, especially for those working in or with public agencies. But how can you build these skills after leaving school? Building community engagement skills involves activities that promote communication, collaboration, leadership, and understanding of community needs. Here are several ways to develop these abilities:
• Volunteer in Local Community Projects and Groups: Volunteering in local initiatives and groups, such as neighborhood clean-ups, food drives, or nonprofit groups, helps build connections with diverse groups, improves communication, and fosters a sense of responsibility.
• Join or Create Community Groups: Participating in or organizing groups around shared interests allows you to bring people together and gain insights into community dynamics. Attend Public Meetings: Going to city council meetings, town halls, or public forums helps you understand local issues and decision-making processes. It’s also an opportunity to learn how to present or advocate for community interests—and sometimes what to avoid.
• Participate in Cultural Events: Engaging in cultural or social events fosters cultural competence, which is key to effective community engagement.
• Practice Public Speaking and Facilitation: Leading discussions or giving presentations at meetings builds communication skills and confidence. ITE-sponsored events, Toastmasters, or TED Talks in your area are great platforms to practice these skills.
• Lead or Join Civic Groups: Involvement in local projects or non-profit groups, like park improvements, offers hands-on experience with community engagement in public projects.
• Attend Leadership Workshops: Many organizations provide training in leadership, conflict resolution, and community or group organizing. LeadershipITE and groups like Scouting (as an adult volunteer) offer excellent opportunities to grow these skills.
These activities will help you develop essential skills like leadership, empathy, effective communication, conflict resolution, and the ability to work with diverse populations—key components for successful community engagement. Personally, my career and ability to engage with the public have improved through many of these activities. But these skills take time and continuous practice to refine, and I’m always learning new techniques. I encourage you to make the most of your ITE membership as a vehicle to develop and practice the skills needed for effective community engagement.
As 2024 comes to a close, I hope the upcoming holidays bring you peace, joy, and the opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends. May it also be a time to refresh and recharge. Stay safe and be well!