[mw44118]

Idle social chit chat is not easy for a lot of people. So don't waste time with that. Instead, think about how you can use your gifts to help other people.

Don't volunteer to hand out trays at a soup kitchen. That doesn't leverage your skills. Instead, volunteer to analyze their inventory system to look for more efficient patterns.

Since you're an engineer, you're probably good at math. You could probably teach a GED-preparation class to high school dropouts. You could teach a community college class or tutor a group of students. You'll get practice with talking to people and you'll probably really help out others.

There are a TON of nonprofits that need technical help. Volunteer to run a website (for example). If you don't know how to do that, learn in all that weekend free time!

You have a lot of power to make the world a much better place. Do that selflessly and friendships will follow.

Friendships among dudes are best thought of as alliances formed to help reach a goal.

Find a meaningful goal.