At its general membership meeting in January, the Armenian Engineers and Scientists of America (AESA) introduced its new council for 2015. The new executive council is composed of President Marina Guevrekian Ph.D., Vice President Razmik Gharakhanian, Past President Vasken Yardemian, Executive Secretary Mark Abajian and Treasurer Armineh Khachatoorian. The councilors in large are Aram Setian, Arin Abed, Ohan Armenian, Argineh Shabandari, Talin Petrosian, Richard Ohanian, Vrej Agajanian, Eddie Atoian and Christ  Kirikian.

Outgoing President Vasken Yardemian reported last year’s activities and achievements of the organization. AESA had a successful year of organizing a series of scientific lectures and workshops as well as the annual Science Olympiad competition that was held at California State University, Northridge. In addition, the AESA started collaborations with the College of Science and Engineering of the American University of Armenia (AUA) and the National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia (NUACA). AESA New-New Jersey Chapter initiated a certification program with the Rutgers University of New Jersey to conduct short courses at NUACA in Armenia. Already two of the AESA New-New Jersey chapter members were in Armenia last October to teach two certificate courses in construction management.  Furthermore, AESA completed a feasibility study on a project to improve the water supply and irrigation system of four villages close to the border in Armenia. These villages are Yeghvard, Uzhanis, Khdrants and Agarak in Kapan Region.

Yardemian introduced incoming President Marina Guevrekian, the first female president of the AESA. Dr. Guevrekian shared her plans and goals for the upcoming year.

“We would like AESA to become an inviting venue to foster youth and experience,” said Guevrekian. “Our new projects involving the young generation and establishment of ties with Armenian businesses in the engineering and scientific fields will bring AESA to the next level.”

AESA will continue the Science Olympiad program and by initiating the new strategic games for Armenian schools’ middle school students. The establishment of the young professionals group, its collaboration with  established scientists and engineers and other young professional associations is in AESA’s plans for 2015.