IEEE is a professional association with its corporate office in New York City and its operations center in Piscataway, New Jersey. It was formed in 1963 from the amalgamation of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers and the Institute of Radio Engineers.

As of 2018, it is the world’s largest association of technical professionals, Its objectives are the educational and technical advancement of electrical and electronic engineering, telecommunications, computer engineering and allied disciplines. IEEE and its members inspire a global community to innovate for a better tomorrow through its more than 423,000 members in over 160 countries, and its highly cited publications, conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities. IEEE is the trusted “voice” for engineering, computing, and technology information around the globe. IEEE and its organizational units engage in coordinated public policy activities at the national, regional, and international levels in order to advance the mission and vision of securing the benefits of technology for the advancement of society.

IEEE provides its members and volunteers with networking and interaction opportunities through local meetings and events hosted by the local Sections, Chapters, and other regional governing bodies. IEEE creates an environment where members collaborate on world‐changing technologies, from computing and sustainable energy systems to aerospace, communications, robotics, healthcare, and more.