Welcome to the Community Insights blog!

This blog features posts from and about the EngX community. Want to contribute? Read our blogging guide to help you get started.

  • EMEA Communities Volunteers Conference 2014

    EMEA Communities Volunteers Conference 2014

    [ View the story "IET EMEA Communities Volunteers Conference" on Storify ]

    Former Community Member
    Former Community Member
  • It Was Not E.T. After All!

    It Was Not E.T. After All!

    Some light Sunday morning reading. Scientists have determined how the moving stones of Death Valley actually move. And it was not E.T.

    Allan Casey
  • Speedy charging driving a global boom in electric cars

    Speedy charging driving a global boom in electric cars

    Electric cars seem to be gaining ground in the UK and elsewhere. According to Ecotricity, the company that has installed a network of charging stations along the UK's motorways, we are seeing a "revolution". Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders indicated that electric car sales have now topped the 10,000 mark in the UK. As well as government incentives that have cut ownership costs, a key development is the roll-out of a network of superfast chargers at motorway stations. Over the past year, Ecotricity say they have installed around 170 of these units, covering 90% of the network. These allow you to charge your car battery up 80% in 20-30 minutes. For more information on the BBC website click here for the full article Having not seen many charging points for a while,…

    Deborah-Claire McKenzie
  • RFC Goes to War

    RFC Goes to War

    I liked this interesting and informative article on the RAeS website relating to the Royal Flying Corps crossing over to France in August 2014 at the beginning of the Great War, which I thought I'd share with community members. Those pioneer airmen were certainly brave flying such flimsy, unreliable and at that point unarmed machines. Sadly some of them didn’t even make it across the channel. Over the four years of the war, the aerial service developed into a force of nearly a third of a million officers and men, 378 squadrons and around 22,000 aircraft. To read the article please click here. Did any of your relatives serve in the Royal Flying Corps during the war? If you’ve any photographs of them in their machines, please share these with the community by uploading to the images section and…

    Deborah-Claire McKenzie
  • Ideas For Future Presentations

    Ideas For Future Presentations

    Members, last post of the day I promise (hopefully)! The NorCal committee is looking into future presentations for the membership. Ideas include " The Internet Of Things " and " Raspberry PI" . We want your participation in making this a real network in which we can connect with each other through our interests and work. With that in mind: Is there a topic that you are interested in that you would like to know more about? Do you have a presentation that you could give in person? Are you interested in Present Around The World for students, recent graduates, apprentices and young professionals aged 18-26 years? Do you have a link to something that highlights your interests and work? Let us know in the comments section!

    Allan Casey
  • NIF Features in Engineering and Technology Magazine

    NIF Features in Engineering and Technology Magazine

    Following our tour of the National Ignition Facility , the June edition of the Engineering and Technology Magazine carried an article titled "Fusion energy: promises and problems". If you missed the article, you can read it here .

    Allan Casey
  • Next IET NorCal Meeting Is Planned For 18th October!

    Next IET NorCal Meeting Is Planned For 18th October!

    Hope you all enjoyed your summer! IET NorCal is pleased to announce that our next guest speaker will be Professor Arvind Kumar and he will be presenting his views and thoughts on Nuclear engineering applications. The meeting will be held in the cafeteria (building 10) of the Fairmont Hospital in San Leandro between 10am to 12pm. Attendees will be able to buy refreshments. Dr Kumar's biography and the campus layout of the Fairmont Hospital are attached. Hope to see you all there!

    Allan Casey
  • Preliminary Discussions With UWI Alumni

    Preliminary Discussions With UWI Alumni

    (Standing LR: IET T&T LN: David Drakes, Jennifer Maraj, Anthony Chadee, Jason R. Rameshwar) (Seated CW: UWIAATT: Peter Poon-Chong, Lisa Feveck, Jerry Medford, Lana Spencer, Cheridan Woodruffe, Chantelle Pile) Members of the local network executive discussed the potential for establishing a formal relationship with the UWIAATT on Wednesday 27th August. The executive committee, of the UWI Alumni Association of Trinidad and Tobago chapter, was chaired by its president Mr. Cheridan Woodrfuffe and was interested in the key focal points highlighted by Mr. Anthony Chadee. These areas included the partnership to market the 2015 PATWs to existing Alumni and new graduates of the University, networking and mentorship between both parties and seminars on professional registration as well as the benefits…

    Jason Robert Rameshwar
  • Manchester Network Volunteers Workshop

    Manchester Network Volunteers Workshop

    The Manchester Network have organised a Volunteers Workshop on Monday, 15 September 2014 to which existing and new volunteers are being invited to attend. The workshop will be held at the Manchester Conference Centre, Sackville Street, Manchester and there is a choice of two sessions i.e. one at 2-5pm and the other at 6-9pm, with a buffet dinner at 5-6pm for both sets of participants. The workshop will cover: · An overview of the Networks’ structure, its members, its aims, its groups and its events. · An opportunity to make a video clip/message for our MyCommunity website. · Network succession planning session. · Have your say! A session designed to provide members the opportunity to ask questions of the network committees and to provide feedback and suggestions for the next year. · The launch…

    Deborah-Claire McKenzie
  • Volunteering Opportunities – Get Involved

    Volunteering Opportunities – Get Involved

    The IET Radar, Sonar and Navigation Network are appealing to professionals with an interest in this area to join the executive team and represent the technical community. As a registrant to this network, we would like to invite you to apply for this opportunity, to join the executive team you do need to be a member of the IET. What is the role of the network? This network provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and information and networking within the area of radar, sonar and navigation. This is done through a number of physical and online activities, which allow you to: Learn about and extend your existing knowledge of the topic Network with like-minded individuals Receive information via the web Share knowledge and experience with others What is expected of an executive team member…

  • Monthly Networking meeting at Carr's

    Monthly Networking meeting at Carr's

    Please note that there will not be a meeting in August as many people are on holiday. The next meeting will be on the third Thursday in September: the 18th. BR Phil

    Phil Dunbar
  • Join us for a visit to Munich's Underground

    Join us for a visit to Munich's Underground

    Organised tour of Munich's underground The tour starts with a visit to a canal near Schloss Nymphenburg and then moves to Hirschgarten to see the spectacular rainwater storage caverns, the so-called "underground cathedral". It's suitable for children of 6 and over and will last approx 2 hours. It will be in German but translation will be provided. IET members and their families will be given priority. Travel between the canal and the storage caverns will be by public transport. There will be a chance to have lunch at the Hirschgarten after the outing. Expect some damp (but no sewage!), so wear sensible shoes and clothes. Please register by Friday 5 September 2014. Date: Friday 12 September 2014 Time: 10:00 Location: Tour starts near Schloss Nymphenburg Link for registration here .

    Howard Gray
  • Aerospace Committees

    Aerospace Committees

    The IET Aerospace Network provides opportunities for Aerospace Professionals to keep up to date with latest developments and insights in the world of aerospace as well as connecting with other professionals.  The Network covers  the human effort in science, technology and engineering that is associated with all aerospace activities across a multitude of commercial, industrial and military applications.  List updated on 23 August 2021 Aerospace Network teams  This group of dedicated volunteers organises an annual programme of technical events and visits throughout the year.   Executive Team Members  Ray Smith  -  Chairman/Transport Sector Representative Arnold Gad-Briggs - Vice Chairman David Lindley  - Past Chairman/Transport Policy Representative Andy Mills  - Joint Propulsion Group Representative…

    Deborah-Claire McKenzie
  • Professional Development Courses: Have you got the write stuff?

    Professional Development Courses: Have you got the write stuff?

    Whether you are working toward professional registration and want to develop you writing skills, or are an established engineer moving into a managerial role the IET offer a number of professional development courses that can help you understand the requirements and develop the writing skills required to fulfill your career potential. Technical Report Writing This highly practical two-day course analyses report preparation from the earliest stages of identifying the reader and the objectives to the effective presentation of the complete document. Delegates are asked to bring a sample of a report of technical document they have written and have the opportunity to discuss these individually with the tutor. Delegates have the opportunity to analyse technical writing in terms of style and grammar…

    Kathryn Bain
  • 5 Thing You May Not Know About The Shard

    5 Thing You May Not Know About The Shard

    On 14 th August 2014 the London Young Professional’s Network put on the Engineering Challenge whereby teams were invited to compete to build the tallest tower out of marshmallows and spaghetti. Prior to the challenge, Roma Agrawal presented on her experiences working on The Shard. Here are the top 5 fascinating facts you may not know about The Shard. The Shard sits on top of a geological fault line that has been there since the ice age. Fortunately, it is dormant. The Shard has 44 elevators. Since the building is used by private residents, businesses and tourists it is important that they do not cross paths. The Spire (the top part of The Shard) was originally called the Radiator. The intention was for water to be moved up to The Spire to cool it before being moved back down as a greener way…

    Former Community Member
    Former Community Member
  • FIRST®︎ LEGO®︎ League (FLL) UK

    FIRST®︎ LEGO®︎ League (FLL) UK

    You may be aware that the IET is the FIRST LEGO League Operational Partner in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The FIRST LEGO League is a global science and technology competition for teams of up to 10 students, aged between 9 to 16 years, to encourage an interest in real world issues and develop crucial key skills. Each year the teams build, program and test an autonomous LEGO MINDSTORMS robot to solve a set of missions, as well as research, develop and share their innovative solution. In 2013 Untitled 1 from Bath won the Champion’s Award in St. Louis, MO, USA, beating teams from across the globe taking part in the festival. In 2014 Invicta from Kent did it again! Teams from Coventry schools are currently needed. If you have any links with schools in your local area who could take part then…

    Joanne Longton
  • IET London's Engineering Challenge

    IET London's Engineering Challenge

    [ View the story "IET Engineering Challenge" on Storify ]

    Former Community Member
    Former Community Member
  • WISE Visit

    WISE Visit

    Thank you very much to Dave Spinks, Fellow of the IET, for sending this fantastic write-up to the Women's Network! During the week commencing 4 th August 2014, a group of young women visited the Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering (DSAE) Cosford, as part of the ongoing “Women into Science and Engineering” (WISE) project. One of the areas visited was the No: 1 Radio School (No: 1RS) which forms part of the Defence School of Communication and Information Systems (DSCIS) organisation. DSCIS, itself, is under the control of the Defence College of Technical Training (DCTT) which has overall responsibility for the education of personnel from all three Services in specialist engineering disciplines. No: 1RS provides training for Trade Group (TG) 4 Information Communication Technology (ICT)…

    Former Community Member
    Former Community Member
  • Swindon Committee and Volunteering

    Swindon Committee and Volunteering

    Would you like to meet up with fellow-engineers from other organisations? Do you want to expand your own skills while contributing something to your profession? Are you interested in attracting the next generation of engineers? What ideas do you have for your local IET community? We are always looking for volunteers who have an interest and want to contribute to the work of the committee. IET membership is only required for Officer roles, otherwise men and women of all ages are welcome. We always encourage ‘new blood’ to refresh our Network and the widest possible range of people will help us to maximise our relevance in Swindon. When you are ready to become involved, please contact our Chairman Walter Featherstone to express an interest via email - Swindon@ietvolunteer.org . You do not…

    Ken Mills
  • Wish You Were Here - Visit To LEGOLAND Malaysia

    Wish You Were Here - Visit To LEGOLAND Malaysia

    Legoland Malaysia, Malaysia's very first international theme park with over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions was opened in Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia on September 15, 2012. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and sixth in the world upon its establishment. For those who may not be familiar, Legoland Malaysia is easily accessible from the North-South Highway and just a short drive from city of Johore Bahru. IET Malaysia organised a technical visit to Legoland Malaysia on the morning of Saturday June 21, 2014 to enable participants to learn more about the technology and operations of the theme park. The participants benefited from up close and personal interaction to 2 of their major rides as well as insights through a technical briefing by their Technical Manager, Rajendran…

    Julie
  • 5th IET Malaysia Network Prestige Lecture And Annual Dinner 2014

    5th IET Malaysia Network Prestige Lecture And Annual Dinner 2014

    The 5th IET Malaysia Network Prestige Lecture and Annual Dinner was successfully organised. There was a total of 222 participants attended the Prestige Lecture. Our distinguished guests during the night are Ir. Professor Academician Dato' Dr. Chuah Hen Teik(President of Universiti of Tunku Abdul Rahmant, Past President of IEM), Ir. Tan Yean Chin (IEM Dupety President) Ir. Chris Chew Shee Fuee (IET CCAP Chairman) Ir. Lam Seng Yew (IEM, EETD Chair), Ir. Steven Ng (TEEAM Vice President), Ar. Sarly Adre Sarkum (MGBC Chairman) , IET Members, Universities and Industrial Partners. The Prestige Lecture was delivered by Ir. Professor Academician Dato' Dr. Chuah Hen Teik on the topic of "Science, Engineering, Technology & Innovation (SETI) Education for Economy Transformation". The Prestige Lecture and…

    Julie
  • EVs And Their Appetite For Power

    EVs And Their Appetite For Power

    If you didn't manage to attend the event in Milton Keynes you can now view content from this activity on IET.tv. Click here for further information on the event and links to the presentations.

    Julie
  • Engineering The Shard - IET London Network event 14 August 2014

    Engineering The Shard - IET London Network event 14 August 2014

    The IET London Young Professionals Network brings you this Engineering C hallenge 2014 event. There will be team based challenges designed to make you get creative, think on your feet and problem solve. No prior preparation is required - just get involved and bring out straightforward engineering thinking. Attendees will also have the privilege to listen guest speaker Roma Agrawal structural engineer from WSP Group as she shares her highlights when engineering London's popular skyscraper, The Shard. Event programme 18:00 : Drinks & Snacks 18:30 :About the competetion & speaker introduction 18:45 :Lecture by Roma Agrawal on The Shard structural design 19:15 :Q&A 19:30: Engineering Challenge 20:15:Winners Announcement 21:00: Close Registration information Unfortunately registration for this event…

    Former Community Member
    Former Community Member
  • Top Mathematics Prize Awarded to a Woman for First Time

    Top Mathematics Prize Awarded to a Woman for First Time

    Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani wins the Fields Medal, considered the Nobel of math, and breaks into a male-dominated academic elite. All 52 previous winners of the award were men! Read more...

    Former Community Member
    Former Community Member