A Lifetime of Empowering Engineers: The Inspiring Journey of IEEE Volunteer, Deepa Thomas
For over three decades, Deepa Thomas has been a driving force within the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), not just as a member, but as a dedicated volunteer and leader. Her story isn’t just about professional advancement; it’s about the power of giving back, fostering community, and shaping the future of technology. This is the story of how one individual’s commitment to IEEE has blossomed into a legacy of impact.
From Student Branches to Global Leadership
Deepa’s journey with IEEE began with a simple desire to connect and contribute. While pursuing her education,she quickly recognized the value of the organization and its potential to empower students.
She first became involved through a connection made within the organization – a mentor who would prove instrumental in her early advancement. McDonald, an IEEE Life Fellow and founder/CEO of JDM Associates, provided invaluable guidance.
Her dedication quickly led to impactful roles. At delhi Technological University, she revitalized the student branch, organizing technical talks and events that sparked innovation.Later,at Jamia Millia Islamia,she didn’t just join the student branch,she revived it,serving as its counselor for an notable 14 years.
This commitment didn’t go unnoticed. Deepa’s leadership skills propelled her to broader responsibilities within IEEE, including:
* Chair of Region 10 Student Activities committee: Overseeing student engagement across a vast geographical area.
* Vice Chair of Membership Development for IEEE Member and Geographic Activities: Focusing on growing and supporting the IEEE community.
* Member of IEEE Educational activities and IEEE Publication Services and products boards: Contributing to the core functions of the organization.
“Creating programs that benefit members makes me feel satisfied,” Deepa explains. “Volunteering has also boosted my confidence.” It’s a sentiment that underscores her genuine passion for helping others succeed.
Building Relationships and a Sustainable Future
Deepa’s involvement with IEEE isn’t solely about formal roles and responsibilities. It’s about the relationships she’s forged along the way.One notably significant friendship blossomed with 2023 IEEE President, Saifur Rahman. They first connected in 2000 when Rahman spoke at the Jamia millia Islamia student branch.
“Our friendship has grown so much that saifur is like family,” she shares. This speaks to the strong sense of community fostered within IEEE.
That friendship led to a crucial prospect in 2022. Rahman invited Deepa to join the newly launched IEEE Technology for a Sustainable climate Matrix Organization. Recognizing the urgency of climate change, she eagerly accepted.
Her contributions have been significant:
* IEEE Climate Change Collection: Deepa spearheaded the creation of this vital resource on the IEEE Xplore Digital Library, consolidating research and data on climate solutions.
* Climate Change Taxonomy: She led the development of a 620-word taxonomy, now integrated into the IEEE Thesaurus, defining nearly 12,500 engineering, technical, and scientific terms related to climate change. This provides a standardized language for researchers and practitioners.
* Ongoing expansion: Currently, Deepa is leading a team to further expand this taxonomy, adding hundreds more climate-change related terms.
A Philosophy of Giving Back
Deepa’s story is a powerful reminder that membership in a professional organization can be so much more than just access to resources. It’s an opportunity to contribute, to lead, and to build lasting relationships.
“You should always do what you enjoy,” she advises. “For me, that’s teaching and volunteering with IEEE. I coudl just be a member, access the technical content, and be happy with just that, but I volunteer because I can do things that help others.”
Deepa thomas embodies the spirit of IEEE. Her dedication,leadership,and unwavering commitment to empowering others serve as an inspiration to engineers and volunteers worldwide. She demonstrates that by investing in the community, you not only advance your own career, but also contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
Learn more about IEEE and its volunteer opportunities:
* [IEEE Website](https://www
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