Opelika symposium promotes two countries, one industry

By Beverly Harvey

Published: April 12, 2008

Two cultures from two countries came together Saturday to promote a single industry.

Representatives from 12 companies joined professors and students from universities from across the Southeast to attend the second annual Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association Alabama Chapter Symposium on Automotive Technology - Vehicle Manufacturing.

The event, held at the Saugahatchee Country Club in Opelika, was organized by Dr. Ben Choe, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Auburn University and KSEA Alabama Chapter president.

During his introduction for the lecture portion of the symposium, Choe said the goal of the event is fourfold for Korean and American scientists and engineers:
n to promote networking opportunities;
n to provide a venue for exchanging information on current technologies;
n to promote collaboration in research, development, education and other areas;
n to foster professional career development.

The symposium featured lectures by executives and professors in the automotive industry, a job fair for college students, and an introduction for Korean families to the K-12 education system in the United States.

The event ended with a dinner to honor five Korean War veterans.