North East Asia Region Shanghai Cluster has its Inauguration Ceremony and Member Reception

North East Asia Region launches its Shanghai Cluster as part of an Inauguration Ceremony and Member Reception in Shanghai

On 16 December, hosted by the institution of Mechanical Engineers - North East Asia Region (NEAR), the inaugural ceremony of the NEAR Shanghai Cluster was held at the Arup’s Office in Shanghai.

IMechE is one of the fastest growing professional engineering institutions. Headquartered in London, but with operations around the world, the Institution has over 110,000 members in more than 140 countries, working at the heart of the most important and dynamic industries. This reception marked the launch of the NEAR Shanghai Cluster, which aims to support the local engineering community and promote the importance of professional engineers. More than 80 people including local members, university professors, and local industry leaders, as well as the volunteers of the Institution attended the seminar.

Mr. Michael Kwok, Director and General Manager of the Arup Shanghai office, gave a welcome introduction to all invited guests about this happy occasion. IMechE International Vice President - Prof Alan Lau delivered an opening speech before the MOU signing ceremony between Arup and NEAR. NEAR Chairman –Eur Ing WK Chow then gave an overview of the North East Region before Mr. Francois Lancelot outlined the Shanghai Cluster’s strategic plan for 2014-15.




The Shanghai Cluster Inaugural Ceremony was ended by the traditional three toasts given by the Core team, first to the Institution, then to the NEAR and the Shanghai Cluster and finally to its guests and members.

All invited guests from academia and industry, local members and volunteers stayed through the late hours of the evening to network and enjoy the excellent food and wine served at the reception.