IMechE sets clearly defined purpose to thrive into the future

The Institution remains committed to improving the world through engineering. Demand for engineering skills has never been higher. In the UK alone, we need an extra 124,000 engineers and technicians a year to meet demand, according to EngineeringUK, with many companies struggling to recruit.

To play our valuable role, we have translated our high-level mission into a clearly defined purpose to guide our activities and direction. Our purpose has four strands:

• Provide opportunities for the engineering community to develop skills, knowledge and professional practice.
• Maintain and enhance the professional status of mechanical engineers.
• Develop the pipeline of talent for the future of the engineering profession.
• Engage with society and governments to leverage innovation for sustainable economic development.

These strands provide the detail beneath the two goals of our IMechE 2030 strategy – to support and develop our members and the wider community, and to maximise the positive impact of engineering on society. We aim to achieve these goals in many ways. IMechE courses provide life-long learning opportunities, notably to reskill to meet the fast-changing environment. Formula Student and our Challenges encourage the next generation, helping them to develop their skills and creativity in real-life settings.

Communication and collaboration

Communication and close collaboration are at the heart of everything we do; ‘one team’ is our mantra. Recognising our unique structure, we have established a new forum to foster best practice sharing among chairs of operating boards and members of the executive, ensuring a more cohesive and efficient approach. Working together, we will have the most impact. Education and skills are a priority, with the policy team working with members to respond to the Industrial Strategy. This collaboration ensures that the engineering profession contributes to the debate.

IMechE Year of Rail

Highlighting the work of our members is always a priority and we are making 2025 A Year of Rail. As the home of the railway engineering community, we are proud to mark the 200th anniversary of the world’s first passenger railway in 1825, pioneered by our first president, George Stephenson. Through events, training courses, and thought leadership, we’re championing the critical role of engineering in shaping the railways of tomorrow. We will also be delving into our archives, where my colleagues are digitising Stephenson’s letters, and can’t wait to see what they find.

Looking ahead

Financial stability remains a priority. We are 178 years old, but more relevant now than ever before with the pace of technological change – we must thrive into the future. Engineering is at the heart of solutions to many global challenges and I am confident the Institution is well placed to encourage innovation and support our members. Finally, I encourage all members to engage with the HQ Programme, instrumental in ensuring we are fit for the future. Your participation is crucial to determine the best path forward.