Engineers Without Borders (EWB)

From the Marquette directory, Sep 7, 2026

Engineers Without Borders (EWB) is a national and international, non-profit organization that works alongside communities to design and apply engineering solutions to sustainable infrastructure. Do not be misled by the engineering title! EWB is a worldwide team of engineers, volunteers, and students of all educational backgrounds. At Marquette University, EWB-MU works alongside communities in Guatemala. Together students, mentors, and communities have worked together to design and build pedestrian bridges, water tanks, a school, and an electric alternative system for a community orphanage. As an EWB team, we work with communities to design, partially fund, and implement the infrastructure that the community requests. This is a large task, and we therefore have several branches: our student leads hold fundraising, domestic coordination, design, Silent Auction, executive board, and general body meetings. This system allows members to contribute in whatever way suits their interests and talents. We encourage all students, engineering major or not, to join: we need a diverse set of skills to do what we do. Throughout the year we do community, fundraising, and service events. On campus, you will see EWB-MU members selling succulents, bracelets, donuts & coffee, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Our largest fundraising event is our Annual Silent Auction, an event where friends, family, and coworkers come together to learn about and help fund projects. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, and guests, we usually raise around $20k! It is an extremely rewarding event to put together and we need all the help we can get. EWB-MU also volunteers with Habitat for Humanity to help build homes around MKE. We also do a yearly camping trip, taco nights, and game nights (we're partial to Jeopardy), typically organized by the domestic coordination team. EWB is a great way to make good friends - we work and hang out in equal parts. Close relationships and an open, friendly environment are integral to the quality of work we produce.After designing, fundraising, and organizing throughout the academic year, a team is selected to travel to Guatemala to help implement infrastructure alongside the community. The team is chosen on the basis of attendance and engagement to make sure that our representatives are passionate and informed. This is the culmination of the year's project, although student leads and professional mentors will continue to monitor sites for quality over the next few years. Engineer or English major, first-year or senior, if you have a passion for working with a team that values hard work, friendship, and learning, we hope you give this organization a chance! To learn more, email our secretary Amanda Martin ([email removed]) and ask to be added to the mailing list. We send out weekly emails with meeting times, upcoming events/opportunities, and cool fun facts. Take a look at our website for more information on our organization regarding projects and everything else!