We as Mechatronics students at the University of Alberta should take pride in our discipline. External relations are a group effort, and I am here with you and for you. Hi, I am Seongmin Park. As your peer, let’s set an example of what mechatronics engineering is together.

With your support, I strive for three things:

1. Awareness & Brand (Make Mechatronics known)

   You and I both know what mechatronics is, but do they (the industry) know? We are the first representation in the market across Western Canada, and it is my goal to make our name heard. We should be proud of what we do. Through proper logo, branding, and liaising to companies, we can set the path for future mechatronics students.

2. Industry & Academic Partnerships (External connections that create value)

   I believe within our discipline, there are some incredible people with great connections. Regardless, my goal is to set everyone up for great connections in my role. As mechatronics students, we should utilize these connections to support our goals and career paths. Events such as an industry fairs are something we can all strive for alongside the rise in innovation in Alberta. We can also take advantage of our smaller numbers and build closer relationships with professors who teach us as well as those who have already paved the way. My role is to forge a pathway to connect students with companies and our professors for mechatronics exclusive, external opportunities. Building a community where we come from different backgrounds but speak the universal language of engineering is the ultimate goal.

3. Member Experience & Leadership (Bringing my role to you)

   As VP External, I want to share core skills we all struggle with, such as presentation and making the right impression. I aim to prepare us for industry with various events so we can showcase the pride and passion we bring. Events such as soft-skills seminars and career supports will help. I understand the time commitment of a student, and I strive to break the barriers between a VP role and a regular member by bringing events to you instead of asking you to come to us. Remember that this is a group effort: I may be the VP External, but you are the representation of mechatronics. My job is to have your voice heard outside the club, which is impossible without your concerns and ideas for the industry and the club.

If you are curious how you can represent us better find me on @seon.gforvpexternal on Instagram or shout my name in class and I will be at your service.