Voices from Washington DC 2026: Insights from IEEE-USA Congressional Visit Day

Join us for Voices from Washington DC 2026: A Young Professionals Panel on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM EDT, where IEEE Region 3 Young Professionals who participated in the IEEE-USA Congressional Visit Day (CVD) will share their firsthand experiences engaging with policymakers in Washington, DC. This session will provide a unique behind-the-scenes look at how engineers and technology professionals contribute to shaping public policy. Panelists will discuss the key policy topics presented to Senators and Members of the House of Representatives, their preparation for congressional meetings, and the impact of these discussions on the engineering community. Participants will gain valuable insights into the role of advocacy in engineering, the importance of effective communication with legislative offices, and how IEEE members can actively engage in influencing policies that drive innovation and societal progress. Key Policies Discussed: – Federal R&D Funding: Advocating for increased, stable, and predictable federal investment to sustain innovation, support universities and national laboratories, and maintain global technological leadership – STEM Workforce & Immigration: Supporting the Keep STEM Talent Act and addressing challenges in retaining highly skilled talent, including pathways from H-1B visas to permanent residency The session will include a short briefing followed by a dynamic panel discussion featuring Young Professionals from across Region 3 representing multiple states and perspectives. Whether you are new to policy engagement or interested in participating in future Congressional Visit Days, this event will provide meaningful insights, practical takeaways, and inspiration to get involved. Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/551438