Society of Women Engineers Appoints Laurie Shuster as Editor-in-Chief of SWE Magazine

Chicago – The Society of Women Engineers (SWE), a global organization dedicated to promoting and supporting women in engineering, today announced the appointment of Laurie Shuster as the new editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine.

With an extensive background in journalism and a passion for highlighting women’s achievements in engineering, Shuster is poised to lead the publication to new heights. She’ll be taking the reins for longtime Director of Editorial and Publications Anne Perusek, who is retiring.

As editor of SWE Magazine, Shuster will oversee the strategic direction, content development, and overall editorial operations of the publication. Her experience in the industry, coupled with her commitment to advancing women in engineering, makes her an exceptional fit for this important role.

Shuster brings over 30 years of experience in journalism, including several years focusing on science and technology reporting. Her work has been featured in prominent publications, earning her recognition for her ability to engage readers and deliver impactful stories. Throughout her career, she has championed diversity and inclusion, giving voice to underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

Recent appointments include a stint as deputy editor of Landscape Architecture Magazine at the American Society of Landscape Architects and editor-in-chief of Civil Engineering Magazine, published by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Shuster holds a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from the University of Maryland, magna cum laude.

“Under my leadership, Civil Engineering received more than 30 awards for editorial and design excellence. The awards were conferred by the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE) and the Trade, Association, and Business Publications International (TABPI),” she said. Additionally, she received a Silver Award in ASBPE’s Competition for Editorial Excellence in 2004 for the feature article “Bridge and Tunnel Security” and a Bronze award from ASBPE in 2018 for Editor’s Letter.

“I am thrilled to join the Society of Women Engineers as the editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine,” she said. “I believe in the power of storytelling to inspire and empower others, and I am excited to highlight the incredible achievements of women engineers. Through the magazine, we will showcase their groundbreaking work, share their experiences, and provide a platform to amplify their voices.”

SWE Magazine is an esteemed publication that serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, career development, and community building for women engineers worldwide. With a circulation of over 43,000 members, the magazine provides in-depth coverage of industry trends, profiles of accomplished women engineers, and valuable insights into career advancement.

“We are delighted to welcome Laurie Shuster as the editor-in-chief of SWE Magazine,” said Karen Horting, CEO of the Society of Women Engineers. “Her expertise in journalism and commitment to promoting gender equity in engineering make her the perfect candidate to lead our publication. We look forward to the innovative and inclusive content she will bring to our members and the wider engineering community.”

About SWE

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE), founded in 1950, is the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. The not-for-profit educational and service organization is the driving force that establishes engineering as a highly desirable career aspiration for women. To ensure SWE members reach their full potential as engineers and leaders, the Society offers unique opportunities to network, provides professional development, shapes public policy, and provides recognition for the life-changing contributions and achievements of women engineers. As a champion of diversity, SWE empowers women to succeed and advance in their personal and professional lives. For more information about the Society, please visit www.swe.org or call 312.596.5223.