The Society of Women Engineers’ (SWE) Global Ambassador Program has received a Power of Associations Gold Award by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). The awards recognize the association community’s economic and societal contributions locally, nationally, and globally. ASAE will celebrate SWE and other award recipients during its annual Summit Awards Dinner on Sept. 25, 2025, at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.
SWE launched the Global Ambassador Program in 2016 when the organization was in the early stages of its strategic international expansion. It is a free, one-year leadership opportunity for SWE members outside the United States, welcoming participants from all walks of life and all genders.
“Congratulations to the Society of Women Engineers for exemplifying the impact associations have on the industries and professions they represent, and on society at large,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “It’s always so incredibly satisfying to see associations going above and beyond their everyday mission to change the world. We’re very proud to spotlight this award-winning initiative.”
“It’s a daunting endeavor for an association to expand beyond its borders, typically requiring years of investment without a guaranteed return,” said SWE Executive Director and CEO Karen Horting. “The impact on operations as well as membership culture is significant. However, as SWE’s journey demonstrates, when programs are executed thoughtfully and inclusively, they can accelerate growth and reinforce the power of associations.”
Continued Success
Since the program’s inception, SWE experienced sustained year-on-year growth in participating global ambassadors, increasing from 26 in 2016 to 296 in 2025. When the program first launched, only about 2% of SWE members were located outside of the U.S. Today, SWE’s membership outside the U.S. accounts for approximately 12% of its 50,000+ members.
“Becoming a SWE ambassador has helped me develop professionally, particularly in refining my public speaking skills and networking abilities. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at several high schools, which has further enhanced my mentoring skills.” – Dorothy, Liberia
The recent cohort of the Global Ambassador Program included ambassadors from 30 countries who engaged in promoting SWE and its mission in their local or regional community, providing feedback to SWE on its global strategy and goals, and participating in training and volunteer activities to sharpen their skills.
Highlights From the Past Year
Program Impact
Global ambassadors have always played an integral role in key SWE initiatives over the years. For instance, when in-person events abruptly shut down during the pandemic in 2020, global ambassadors supported SWE’s pivot to virtual by facilitating one-hour speed networking events, a tactic that was been expanded to all global regions and are now offered in four languages. These events deliver member value, attract new people to SWE, and give ambassadors a platform to be visible, practice public speaking, and grow their confidence.
“The leadership opportunities and experience from being a global ambassador involved in local activities translated to leadership in my career in the engineering field. It has helped me transition to management in engineering where I am the sole woman manager in my group and opened the door to being involved in DEI efforts at work. I am now involved in a reverse mentoring pilot for DEI.” – Su Ann, Malaysia
Ambassadors have also been influential in setting up new SWE Global Affiliates and supporting existing ones. As SWE’s global activities have grown, ambassadors have met the demand for organizational participation at the national and regional levels by hosting events, organizing leadership teams, and promoting a consistent SWE experience.
Individual Growth
The Global Ambassador Program provides opportunities for personal and professional development of non-U.S. members through entry-level volunteer leadership roles highly customizable to their interests, availability, and expectations, making it accessible to members who may not traditionally volunteer.
“Being a global ambassador has helped me develop new competencies, such as leadership, cross-cultural communication, and event organization. By engaging with a diverse group of engineers from around the world, I have honed my ability to collaborate and communicate effectively across different cultural contexts.” – Derya, Turkey
Global ambassadors benefit in several areas, including improving their confidence, communication skills, and cross-cultural understanding. They also benefit from the recognition and credibility that is extended to them when they are accepted into the program, peer support extending well beyond the duration of their cohort, and career advancement through SWE’s employer partners that have incorporated the program into their employee development processes.
The Global Ambassador Program continues to play a crucial role in advancing SWE’s mission globally and serving as a catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. Learn more about our award-winning program and when you can apply next!
