The group already has 10 chapters in the United States, with another nine in Canada and the United Kingdom. The national organization helps local chapters get organized, but the ideas and programs come from the local level. Shelke sees the current shaky economy as an opportunity for DigitalEve to shine, believing a support group is even more important during rough times than during a boom. Members not only face the anxiety of meeting tight deadlines and keeping current on technology, but many also face layoffs and other woes common to dying companies. Its Website runs several discussion groups that run the gamut from solving complex technical issues to individual members seeking advice before a job interview.
Members can share resources.
Next, the organization will launch networking sessions for its members, according to Triona Guidry, another interim chapter leader. No date has been set for the first event, but Guidry envisions a monthly session that combines a traditional networking event with educational seminars or speaking engagements. The group also plans outreach efforts to local high schools to promote high-technology careers. It's working with Loyola University on a summer camp for high school girls to teach them about technology careers and computer skills. Loyola would provide the computer facilities and DigitalEve members would serve as teachers.