Note: This story was originally published in Michigan Theta’s spring 2026 Theta Thoughts newsletter as part of SigEp’s Alumni Communication Program.

How did you first discover Greek life? For Joe Emery, Lawrence Tech ’05, he happened to meet SigEps in his dorm building at Lawrence Tech and formed strong friendships before learning about the Fraternity. Joe stepped out of his comfort zone to join the Michigan Theta chapter and looks back on his undergraduate membership with great pride.

Fraternal growth

“I really got along with a lot of members,” Joe said. Despite decreasing fraternity interest at LTU and the risk of losing Michigan Theta’s charter during his college years, Joe worked alongside executive board members to strengthen SigEp’s status on campus. “There were several brothers involved in that process, and I was happy to be even a small part to see the turnaround.”

Joe maintained his Sigma Phi Epsilon devotion beyond college by supporting recruitment efforts and Balanced Man Scholarship planning. His prior member development and recruitment roles with Michigan Theta helped him stay organized and understand the value of proper planning.

“The most beneficial skill I’ve learned is how to run a successful meeting. Planning an agenda, sticking to an agenda, assigning action items, and defining next steps forward. That has always been my biggest takeaway professionally, and it still helps me every day.”

Professional life

During his junior year, Joe secured a co-op role at a facility that produced auto show exhibits thanks to Fraternity brothers who helped him prepare for the interview. One year later, he returned the favor by helping one of the same brothers obtain a co-op position within the company.

Joe currently works in airport baggage handling systems and has embraced several opportunities to speak on and moderate industry conference panels. He has assisted with projects on five different continents and was recognized by Aviation Pros in its airport industry 40 Under 40 list in 2019.

“Take every opportunity you can. Don’t overexert yourself, but if there is something that is interesting to you, pursue it. It might not work out initially, but the connections you make early on may pay great dividends later in your professional career.”

Joe’s SigEp experience played a foundational role in his development, and he is grateful to meet up with fellow alumni whenever possible while traveling for work. He encourages today’s SigEps to embrace leadership roles within the Fraternity and other campus organizations to learn valuable skills outside the classroom.

In his personal life, Joe has been with his partner, Tamara, for more than two decades and enjoys spending time with their dog, Tucker.