Engineers Without Borders (EWB-USA) is an organization devoted to supporting the work of undergraduate, graduate, and professional engineers as they conduct development work in disadvantaged communities. Kettering’s chapter was founded in 2006, and has members who are studying Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, and Computer Engineering, as well as Biochemistry and Business. The chapter serves the Flint area and international development needs in villages in Mexico and Africa. In 2006, EWB-Kettering designed and built playground equipment for 20 Flint elementary schools; Currently we serve the Flint area by designing and building wheelchair ramps for those who cannot afford to do this themselves.

Our first international project was in Estanque de Leon, Coahuila, Mexico. This arid region relies on man-made reservoirs to collect and store water – which becomes contaminated with protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. EWB-Kettering designed biosand water filters and SoDis (solar disinfection) units to clean and disinfect water for drinking. In September, 2008, EWB-Kettering provided systems to every household in Estanque de Leon, along with training in the use and maintenance of these systems. We continue to monitor the use and efficacy of these units, and reports from community members continue to be very positive. Our second international project is in Vukuzenzele, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. This community needs assistance with water collection, filtration, and delivery, as well as sanitation, infrastructure, clean cooking, and power. Additional assessment and implementation trips are expected this year.