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  • Volunteer Spotlight: David Parr

    At the IET, our volunteers play a vital role in supporting the engineering and technology community. From mentoring to professional registration, their contributions help shape careers and inspire others. In this edition of our volunteer spotlight, we caught up with David to learn more about his journey, the variety of roles he’s taken on, and what keeps him coming back. Let’s start at the beginning, what inspired you to start volunteering, and how has your experience evolved? My interest in volunteering began early in my career, inspired by the encouragement of colleagues at my first workplace, particularly my first manager, whose support was instrumental in my journey towards CEng registration. That early influence sparked a desire to get involved, and I soon joined the younger members…

  • Shaping Tomorrow: Skills for Innovators and Problem Solvers

    What does it take to thrive as an engineer in a world of constant change? That question was at the heart of “Shaping Tomorrow: Skills for Innovators and Problem Solvers” , a recent event hosted by the IET Victoria Network at Monash University. The panel brought together students, graduates, and industry professionals for an insightful discussion on the evolving skillsets engineers need to succeed. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible panelists: Daisy Pei , Graduate Engineer at Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Heshna Uppadoo , Graduate Engineer at Middleton Group Pela Markogiannakis , Director of Transformation at NEXTDC Robert Loader , General Manager, Transformation at MLC Life Insurance Each speaker brought a unique perspective shaped by their experiences…

  • End Digital Poverty: Sekinat Saka’s Volunteer Story

    For End Digital Poverty Day, we met with Sekinat Saka, known to many as Seki. Seki shares how her connection with the IET began during her early studies in Nigeria and how an IET bursary played a pivotal role in supporting her through a challenging period while studying for her Master’s degree in the UK. Today, Seki continues to make a meaningful impact through her volunteer roles as a Professional Development Scheme Accreditation Assessor, Registration Assessor, Professional Development Mentor and recently accepted invitation to join as a member of the Professional Development Operations Committee. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and a passion for helping others thrive in their engineering careers. Seki’s connection with the IET began in 1994, during her first year studying electrical…

  • Cameron Steel: Designing the Future of Prosumer Electrical Installations

    Cameron Steel is an Associate Director and Chartered Electrical Engineer with over 25 years of experience in mechanical and electrical building services design, project management, and consultancy. His career spans sectors including education, residential, commercial, and most recently, decarbonisation, where his work supports the UK’s transition to low-carbon infrastructure. Before entering consultancy, Cameron spent over 15 years as a practicing electrician, giving him a rare dual perspective on both the practical and strategic aspects of electrical systems. He is the lead author of the IET’s Guide to Prosumer Electrical Installations, and has contributed to numerous IET publications on energy efficiency, lighting, building automation, electrical maintenance, and electrified heat. Prosumer…

  • Graham Kenyon: Engineering Expertise at the Heart of Energy Transition

    Graham Kenyon is a Chartered Engineer with a distinguished career in electrical engineering, specialising in electrical safety, energy storage systems, and regulatory development. His work spans consultancy, technical authorship, and leadership in standards committees, most notably as Chair of JPEL/64, the panel responsible for maintaining BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations), and as a member of the IET Wiring Regulations Policy Committee. Graham has authored several IET publications that provide practical guidance on solar PV, battery storage, and prosumer electrical installations. His expertise lies in translating complex regulatory and technical requirements into actionable insights for designers, installers, and policymakers. At Solar & Storage Live UK, Graham will reflect on three key topics…

  • Spanning the Firth: The Story of the Forth Bridge

    If you’ve ever crossed the Firth of Forth in Scotland, chances are you’ve marvelled at the elegant sweep of the Forth Bridge. Opened on 28 August 1964, this suspension bridge was a new way to get from Edinburgh to Fife, and a bold statement of engineering ambition and ingenuity. At the time of its completion, it was the longest suspension bridge outside the United States, stretching an impressive 2.5 kilometres across the estuary. But its significance goes far beyond its size. The Forth Bridge marked a turning point in British infrastructure, connecting communities, boosting commerce, and showcasing the power of modern engineering. A Bridge Born of Necessity Before the bridge, crossing the Firth of Forth meant relying on a centuries-old ferry service. While scenic, the ferry was slow…

    EngX Editorial
    EngX Editorial

  • UK Space Conference 2025 perspectives from an IET volunteer

    The UK Space Conference always serves as one of those rare occasions when the whole UK space community comes together. As is usually the case, it created opportunities for new conversations with familiar faces dropping by to swap updates, and new introductions sparking fresh ideas. It is emblematic of the space sector that it depends on relationships, partnerships and collaborations built and maintained over time. One of the headline announcements was that space now supports £454 billion of industrial activity across the UK economy, about 18% of GDP, and up £90 billion on last year. Even with the positive spin, that’s a clear sign of the space sector’s continuing and growing influence. Another important marker was new funding in response to the UK government’s decision to formally identify…

  • Why Functional Safety Is Crucial in Particle Accelerators and Medical Technology

    When we think about particle accelerators, we often picture vast scientific facilities probing the mysteries of the universe. But these powerful machines—and the principles behind them—are also at the heart of life-saving medical technologies. From cancer treatment to diagnostic imaging, particle accelerator engineering plays a vital role in modern healthcare. And at the core of all this innovation is something that doesn’t always get the spotlight: functional safety. Functional safety is about making sure that systems behave predictably and safely, even when things go wrong. In environments where high-energy beams, magnetic fields, and complex control systems are in play, that’s not just important—it’s essential. The Hidden Complexity Behind Everyday Treatments Take linear accelerators…

  • Wired for Change: How EVs and Renewables Are Shaping Tomorrow’s Transport

    As the world accelerates towards a cleaner, greener future, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a niche innovation, they are the cornerstone of a global energy revolution. But how did we get here? What challenges have we overcome, and what lies ahead? These are the questions at the heart of Electric Vehicle Technologies: Renewable Energy for the road, a compelling new book published by the IET and co-authored by two of the most experienced minds in the field: John Samuel and Pete James. This book is more than just a technical manual, it’s a sweeping narrative of innovation, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of sustainable transport. Whether you're an engineer, policymaker, student, or simply an EV enthusiast, this book offers a rich, accessible, and inspiring look at the technologies…

  • Are you an Engineer if you can't fix a washing machine?

    Are you truly an engineer if you can’t fix my washing machine? That was a deceptively simple question that my mother asked me as a young school student. While attending secondary school, I developed a keen interest in computing and I wanted to continue this into higher education. After considering various computing science degrees, I stumbled on a course in “Software Engineering” at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. At the time, I hadn’t thought of my interest as engineering, and the question on the washing machine came up when I discussed this with my mother. Of course, it was intended as a light-hearted tease. But a few words triggered a philosophical argument that has stuck with me to this day. After obtaining my Software Engineering degree, becoming a Chartered Engineer and following…

  • Inspiring Future Engineers: IET Auckland’s ‘Project X’ Workshop at Waikowhai Intermediate

    On 12 August 2025, the IET Auckland Network proudly hosted its second annual ‘Project X’ electronics workshop at Waikowhai Intermediate School — a hands-on initiative designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds through engineering. The event was a resounding success, drawing praise from students, parents, and educators alike. Teaching principal David King shared his appreciation, noting, “Things went well, and the children enjoyed themselves and learnt a lot. Thank you again for the IET team's time.” His words reflect the enthusiasm and impact felt throughout the day. Engineering in Action The workshop was powered by the passion and dedication of the IET Auckland committee members and volunteers , led by Gowrishankar Sunthanthirapalan . The team — including Anne George…

  • Volunteer Tommy Cheung – In the spotlight!

    In this edition of our volunteer spotlight, we’re pleased to introduce Tommy Cheung. Tommy has been actively involved with the Younger Members Section (YMS) in the Hong Kong Local Network since 2009 and continues to play a key role in inspiring and supporting the next generation of engineers. Tommy, how did you first get involved with volunteering for the IET? I actually got involved back in 2009 when I joined the Younger Members Section (YMS) as a student. Since then, I’ve taken on a variety of roles within it, Student Section Coordinator (both Sub Degree and Macau), Local Network Affairs Coordinator, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, and Vice-Chair. Out of all those roles, being the Student Section Coordinator was definitely my favourite. It gave me the chance to connect with…

  • Join our disability-focused research groups this September

    Want to play a part in building a more inclusive future for Disabled People in the industry? Disabled People are underrepresented in Engineering and Technology, making up 14% of the workforce in comparison to an average of 18% in other industries. It's so important that we explore this, as diverse minds and experiences are needed to create engineering and tech outputs that are accessible and inclusive of everyone. Therefore, we are inviting participants to contribute to a new research initiative exploring the experiences of Disabled Engineers and Technologists. This project aims to better understand the barriers, enablers, and lived realities of Disabled professionals working in engineering and technology, whether currently employed or with past experience in the sector. The research will…

    Daisy March
    Daisy March

  • Reshaping Manufacturing in Process Industries: Insights from the 2025 Webinar

    The process industries—ranging from food and drink to chemicals, pharmaceuticals, paints, and coatings—play a critical role in our everyday lives. Yet, despite their enormous economic and societal contributions, they are often overlooked in discussions about manufacturing innovation. That’s beginning to change. In a recent webinar hosted by leading experts in the field, attendees gained a window into the evolving landscape of process industries, the opportunities and challenges they face, and how digital transformation, sustainability, and bio-innovation are reshaping the future. The Unseen Giant: Food and Drink as a Manufacturing Powerhouse Andrew Martin of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) kicked off the discussion by highlighting the scale and importance of the food…

  • Your Foothold Is Here: Supporting Engineers

    Engineers support the world. We’re here to support them. IET members help shape the world every day. You tell us your careers can be rewarding, demanding and unpredictable. You also tell us it can be hard to know where to turn for support when life or work gets difficult. We’re Foothold, the benevolent fund for the IET. We’re a charity that’s been here for IET members and their families since 1890. We don’t know much about engineering, but we do know engineers. We exist to make sure IET members and their families never face life’s challenges alone. So, if you or a colleague is experiencing stress, money worries, family pressures, legal issues - or just want to look after your wellbeing - Foothold is here. Support for IET members and their families The best support empowers, and…

  • What If IBM Hadn’t Opened Its Architecture?

    Forty-four years ago today, on August 12 1981, something quietly revolutionary happened. IBM, the tech giant known for its hulking mainframes and corporate computing systems, stepped into a new arena and launched the IBM 5150 Personal Computer. It wasn’t flashy. It didn’t come with a slick marketing campaign. But it changed everything. If you were around in the early '80s, or have ever opened up a PC case, you’ll appreciate just how bold this move was. IBM didn’t build the 5150 from scratch using proprietary parts. Instead, they did something almost unthinkable at the time: they used off-the-shelf components, partnered with Microsoft for the operating system (yes, that’s where MS-DOS got its big break), and published the technical specs so that other manufacturers could build compatible machines…

  • Unlocking the Power of UK Tech Start-ups: A Catalyst for Innovation and Growth

    The UK has long been a fertile ground for innovation. From the industrial revolution to the digital age, British ingenuity has shaped the world. Today, that spirit lives on in the country’s vibrant technology start-up ecosystem. But while the potential is immense, the path from idea to impact is often obstructed by barriers that stifle growth and discourage risk-taking. If we are serious about energising UK innovation and economic growth, we must do more to capture the transformative potential of our tech start-ups and make better use of their potential. The Promise of Start-ups Start-ups are more than just small businesses with big dreams. They are engines of innovation, capable of disrupting established industries, creating entirely new markets, refreshing established markets and solving…

  • Decarbonising Aviation: A Collaborative Flight Path to Net Zero

    As global attention intensifies around climate action, the aviation sector finds itself under increasing scrutiny. A recent webinar, hosted by the IETs Aerospace TN, brought together experts Andrew Chadwick and Andy Reynolds to explore the urgent need to decarbonise aviation—a sector that remains a significant contributor to global CO₂ emissions and climate warming. Despite the temporary dip in emissions during the pandemic, aviation activity has now rebounded to near pre-COVID levels, with demand expected to rise further. This trajectory makes the case for decarbonisation not just compelling, but critical. Strategies for a Cleaner Sky The speakers outlined a multi-pronged approach to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint: Aircraft Efficiency : Enhancing design and operational performance…

  • Grasping the Future: Robotics at the Heart of In-Orbit Servicing (by James Kell)

    The 2025 In-Space Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM) Conference (in the beautiful city of Belfast) highlighted to me a critical enabler of the ISAM community: robotic grasping. As space missions move toward removal of space debris, and even to in-orbit assembly of large structures, the ability to autonomously and securely capture satellites and other objects in microgravity is no longer optional—it’s essential. Several pioneering initiatives are tackling this challenge head-on. GMV’s CAT (Capture and Attitude Transition) mission is advancing robotic capture techniques for active debris removal, while MDA’s Canadarm3 is intending to demonstrate how manipulators can autonomously service spacecraft in deep space. ClearSpace is also making progress with its mission to capture and deorbit defunct…

  • A Short History of the IET in France

    Much has been written on the history of the IET from its genesis in 1871 as the Society of Telegraph Engineers to today where we count amongst the largest engineering institutions worldwide however, often what is written applies to the key milestones, members and high level overviews. Upon noticing at the start of 2024 that the IET France Local Network was going to hit 30 years since its official registration as a Loi 1901 Association in France, I thought that perhaps it would be a good idea to celebrate this birthday and to best do so, having been essentially parachuted into the Network two years prior when i moved to France, that it would be good to have a little dig into the history of how the network came about and got to where it is today. What followed was a rabbit hole filled with…

  • Transforming Britain's Railways: The ETCS Digital Journey

    The UK railway industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and the recent ETCS Railway Technical Network (TN) webinar provided a comprehensive look at how the European Train Control System (ETCS) is central to this evolution. Delivered by Jude Parsons , Head of Assets for Southern Region Signalling, the session explored the technical, operational, and cultural shifts required to modernise the railway network through digital signalling. Understanding ETCS and Its Importance ETCS is a key component of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). It replaces traditional line-side signals with in-cab digital displays, offering drivers real-time information about movement authority and speed limits. This transition is not just a technological upgrade—it represents a fundamental…

  • IET Big Give 2025: We Need Your Help!

    We are excited to share that the IET's Futures Fund is once again taking part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge. The Big Give Christmas Challenge is the UK’s biggest match-funding campaign. For one week (2–9 December 2025), donations made to participating charities are doubled—thanks to match funding from supporters and partners. We found it to be a powerful way to boost support for our flagship educational programme FIRST® LEGO® League - a global STEM programme that inspires young people through hands-on robotics and engineering challenges using LEGO® kits. Teams build and program LEGO® robots to solve real-world problems, developing skills in teamwork, creativity, and STEM—all while having fun. It’s a brilliant way to spark a lifelong interest in science and engineering, especially for…

    Ana Lovick
    Ana Lovick

  • Innovation in Low-Altitude Economy: A New Development Perspective for Hong Kong

    Hosted by IET Hong Kong Management Section | 23 May 2025 With a record-breaking 327 participants , the IET Hong Kong Management Section’s symposium on the Low-Altitude Economy marked a pivotal moment in Hong Kong’s innovation landscape. Held on 23 May 2025, the event brought together government leaders, industry experts, and engineers to explore how low-altitude technologies, like drones and urban air mobility, can reshape the city’s future. Visionary Leadership and Expert Insights The symposium opened with a keynote by Ms. Mable Chan, JP, Secretary for Transport and Logistics , who outlined the HKSAR Government’s strategic plans to foster growth in the low-altitude sector. Her address set the tone for a day focused on policy alignment, innovation funding , and real-world implementation…

    Fiona Lee
    Fiona Lee

  • A Journey into History: My Visit to Bletchley Park with IET Berkshire

    On the 27th of June, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Bletchley Park, thanks to an event organised by IET Berkshire. It was a bright and sunny afternoon, and twelve of us made our way individually to this historic site, where we gathered to explore one of the most significant locations in British wartime history. Our first stop was the Radio Station, where we were introduced to the fascinating work of the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB). We learnt how licensed amateur radio operators played a crucial role during World War II by intercepting enemy transmissions. These operators would carefully transcribe the coded messages they received—messages that were often the first step in the complex process of codebreaking. It was eye-opening to realise how much of the war effort relied…

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