Victorian president end of year update Tuesday, 12 December 2017

Maybe I will be remembered at Engineers Australia for getting us into the media. The truth is, however, it was Catherine Garrett … our media person. Whilst not an engineer, Catherine's ability to help us get us to the point has been invaluable. I’ve learnt that if all we have to say is “beige”, then no one will listen!

And listen we must. I've found we at Engineers Australia are very good at telling others what they should do. I'm as guilty as anyone. We must now listen more … listen to our members, listen to those who should be members but aren't, and listen to those who challenge us.

For the future is challenging … manufacturing is not dead but is now digitised, clean, clever, focused and decentralised; construction will be digitally driven, modular, and factory pre-manufactured; road transport driverless; trains will arrive and depart every three minutes; and energy will be affordable and reliable again!

Just like the kids in the back seat said, "are we there yet”? "How long will it take"?

It depends. And our contribution as a professional body can and will make a difference. Engineers play a crucial role in these changing times. We must continue to support and promote the work of engineers already in the workforce whilst encouraging the next generation to take up the baton.

As my two-year term ends, I give a special thanks to Catherine Garrett whose energy and enthusiasm is unrivalled; to Jenna Vine whose infectious positive outlook to life and its problems sees no bounds; and to all the Engineers Australia staff of the Victorian office who have made such a constructive and concerted effort to serving our members and the community.

 Cheers to you all!


Article submitted by Victorian President Chris Stoltz.