Incest in engineering blamed for skills shortages

SOE President Ian Ling caused a stir last week, by demanding greater support for engineers and criticising existing membership bodies for shying away from the threats facing the industry

Engineering institutions and businesses at the SOE Presidential Address on 3 July shifted uncomfortably as Ian Ling used the platform as a war cry to give workers better conditions, and pleaded that all in the industry do more to attract new generations of engineers, before it is too late.

Ling laid the blame for the public's lack of appreciation of engineering, and the poor recruitment uptake on everyone in attendance, including himself.

He said: "We are inward looking, almost incestuous and because of this we are, I suggest, failing our members.

And, more importantly, in our role and public duty as engineering professionals".

The Presidential Address came as Ian began his second term as President of SOE, a membership organisation for engineering professionals in the transport, plant and surveying sectors.

Engineering institutions, like SOE, promote their members' competence and development through registration, networking events, publications and seminars.

Ian Ling took his opportunity to rally the bodies and public, by outlining that engineers from numerous disciplines are involved with everything from flood protection to the distribution of food.

He said: "This is work to be proud of, to celebrate and champion.

It is work that people should want to do".

Addressing the skills shortages Britain faces, Ian said that schoolchildren and adults alike are put off from careers in engineering through a total lack of awareness.

He described the immense opportunities available within the profession, and pleaded for increased financial support for both salaries and innovations.

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