E23: Engineering a Cultural Connection | Sophia Gross | Sarah Gardner | Engineers Without Borders

In this episode of The WPI Podcast, we explore how a group of Worcester Polytechnic Institute students are making a global impact and connections with a community in Ecuador. As part of a multiple-year project, WPI’s student chapter of Engineers Without Borders USA spent a week in May 2025 working with residents in Shungubug Grande to upgrade their aging water system and address water quality challenges.  Sophia Gross writes about the experience for an article in WPI Journal, the university’s magazine. Gross and Sarah Gardner, both members of the student organization, join the podcast to reflect on their time in South America, the extracurricular project that allowed them to exercise their engineering and problem-solving skills for the enhancement of society, the lasting memories they made with community members, and what it was like to document the trip for the magazine in writing and photos.  Also, Kris O’Reilly, editor of WPI Journal, shares a preview of other stories you’ll find in the Fall/Winter 2025 issue of the magazine.   Related links: WPI Student Chapter, Engineers Without Borders USA Instagram: WPI Student Chapter, Engineers Without Borders USA WPI Journal, “Engineering a Cultural Connection,” by Sophia Gross  WPI Journal Fall/Winter 2025 issue  The Global Lab