Engineers Without Borders - Meet Andnet

Andnet’s journey to Hope College began when he was 6 years old, half a world away from Holland, Mich.

“I was adopted from Ethiopia when I was 6,” he explained. When it was time to pick a college, Andnet learned that Hope had an Engineers Without Borders (EWB) chapter. “It was one of the key factors in my decision to attend Hope. Growing up with my heritage, I’ve always felt a strong desire to give back to communities in developing countries,” he added.

Andnet ’25 has serious responsibilities working with EWB. “I serve as the project lead for Hope’s EWB chapter. I oversee the technical aspects of our international projects. In this role, I get to work closely with engineers, NGOs [non-governmental organizations] and other international EWB offices,” he explained.

His team recently completed a project in Teodomiro, Ecuador. Currently, they’re planning an assessment trip to Kagarama, Rwanda, that could benefit 1,500 people.

“I’ve used my engineering skills to make a tangible difference. EWB provided the perfect opportunity to channel my passion and make a positive impact on communities worldwide. It’s been incredibly motivating,” Andnet shared.

Now, just a few months before graduating with a double major in electrical engineering and computer science, Andnet’s decision to attend Hope and volunteer with EWB is paying off. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the communities we partner with benefit from our work. Beyond the technical skills, EWB provides an environment where students can grow as leaders and problem solvers,” he said.

“Looking back at the past four years with EWB, I have seen myself develop both personally and professionally,” he added. “These opportunities to collaborate with professionals around the world has been enriching.”

Andnet hopes that donors like you understand the importance of your gift to EWB. “Because of you, we’re able to continue working toward our mission of using engineering to improve lives around the globe. Change is possible when we unite for a common good, and every contribution leads to tangible impacts,” he said.

Your gifts to EWB help in two ways: They provide Hope students with real-world engineering experience and they help improve the lives of people around the world. Make your gift today to change Hope and the people of Kagarama.