2024 MRS Fall Meeting & Exhibit
Financial Literacy for Engineers
Friday, December 6
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Sheraton, 2nd Floor, Constitution A
Financial literacy is a critical skill for all professionals, including those in the fields of science and engineering. However, many students in these disciplines often overlook the importance of understanding personal finance and investment strategies, which are vital for long-term financial well-being. This presentation aims to introduce fundamental financial literacy concepts tailored to science and engineering students, covering key topics such as budgeting, saving, managing debt and the basics of investing.
Through practical examples and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insight into how to make informed financial decisions, establish healthy financial habits and understand the importance of early investment planning. By equipping students with these essential tools, the session seeks to empower future engineers and scientists to manage their personal finances effectively as they embark on their professional careers.
Jorge Vidal
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Jorge Vidal is an assistant professor of practice in the Department of Finance at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. With a PhD degree in finance and over 20 years of experience teaching finance and economics courses, Vidal brings a wealth of academic and practical knowledge to the classroom.
In recognition of his teaching excellence, Vidal has been honored with the Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching and The University of Texas System Regents' Outstanding Teaching Award.
Passionate about promoting financial literacy, Vidal sponsors the Financial Literacy Speaker Series and leads the "Fajitas for Finance" program, engaging the community through interactive workshops. He also co-organizes the Annual Financial Literacy Summit, which attracts over 500 attendees, fostering broader financial education in the region.
In addition to these initiatives, Vidal serves as the academic advisor for the Association of Latino Professionals for America and the Economics and Finance Society, supporting students in their academic and professional development.