Get Involved, Stay Involved

ACM encourages its members to take a direct hand in shaping the future of the association

ACM's core mission is to advance computing as a science and as a profession. The engine that drives this mission comprises people like you who operate at the grass-roots level worldwide to volunteer in diverse ACM-sponsored activities. Whether these activities pertain to our journals, conferences, advocacy efforts, educational initiatives, or policy formulation, we owe nearly everything we accomplish to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers.

Today we have more ways than ever for you to get involved. You can also serve in a wide variety of positions ranging from Steering Committee Chair of a SIG conference to Information Director of an ACM journal to subject experts for online learning programs.

Take a hand in leading ACM

It’s hard to overemphasize the value of the contributions made by ACM members. This starts at the very top where volunteers comprise the ACM Council — the association’s highest governing authority. Decision makers on this influential panel have a direct and critical impact on ACM’s direction. If you want to work with top leadership to shape the future of the association, you can serve on numerous high-level boards and committees. 

Lend expertise in your chosen field

No matter where your expertise lies, there’s a good chance that one or more of ACM’s 37 Special Interest Groups (SIGs) focuses on your field. These SIGs offer numerous opportunities to connect with colleagues in meaningful ways. In addition, SIGs sponsor 170 annual conferences, workshops, and symposia. Each conference has its own committee with a variety of openings that may suit you — from Conference Chair to Program Chair to Media Relations Chair, and more.

You can also choose to play a key leadership role in ACM journal publications. The positions of Editor-in-Chief and Associate Editor are filled by volunteers. EICs are appointed on an ongoing basis as terms expire. If you’d like to ensure the high degree of integrity and authority for which ACM journals are known, you can pursue a position as a reviewer or associate editor and editorial advisory board member.

ACM empowers you to help shape the association’s future with a wide array of opportunities in which to get involved. No matter which you choose, your involvement enables you to remain at your most creative, keep abreast of emerging trends, and take advantage of networking possibilities that can advance your career.