Engineering is a very creative profession. That is not the way it is usually described, but down to my toes I believe that engineering is profoundly creative. As in any creative profession, what comes out is a function of the life experiences of the people who do it. Finally, [without] diversity, we limit the set of life experiences that are applied, and as a result, we pay an opportunity cost - a cost in products not built, in designs not considered, in constraints not understood, in processes not invented.
- William A. Wulf
President, National Academy of Engineering, The Bridge, Volume 28, Number 4, Winter 1998.

Diversity is about the appreciation and understanding of humanity in all its many colors, life styles, behaviors, customs and values. It respects and values both similarities and differences.

You may not think much about diversity in your everyday routine. But throughout your education and as a practicing engineer, you will find that it becomes increasingly important. You will be working and interacting with many kinds of people. The more awareness you bring to the situation, the better you'll be able to practice teamwork in your studies and on your job.