Professional Networking

This article explores engineers’ diverse ways of using the explosive growth in social networks that has taken place during the past 5 years. Engineers Looking for Stuff (ELFS) is a group for engineers available on both the LinkedIn and Facebook social networking sites. Engineers are turning to sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, Meetup, Twitter, and a growing number of more specifically tailored sites to find jobs, get questions answered, and connect with people who share professional interests. The L.A. Robotics Club takes advantage of Meetup, which is intended to bring like-minded people together for live events. The club is home for anyone interested in robotics. Members work together on robotic cars and drones and on their own products. Inventor Matt Ferguson and his colleagues used Twitter to help market the Ankle Foot Maximizer (AFX), a device which strengthens foot and ankle tendons and muscles. The AFX is used in sports medicine and physical rehabilitation and in athletic training to enhance jumping and running.