Highlighting Engineering as the Focus of 2018's Year of Engineering
The UK's Year of Engineering 2018: Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
The UK's Year of Engineering 2018 was an ambitious initiative aimed at promoting engineering careers and addressing diversity challenges within the sector. This nationwide campaign, which served as a highlight of the Year of Engineering, featured activities across the country and was supported by over 130 organisations.
Building on Existing Initiatives
The Year of Engineering aimed to build on existing national and regional initiatives, such as EngineeringUK's Big Bang Fair, which brings over 80,000 students and their families to the NEC every year. The Science Museum's interactive exhibition, Engineer Your Future, was also extended to run throughout 2018.
Industry, Government, and Education Collaborations
Partnerships between industry, government, and educational institutions were a key aspect of the Year of Engineering. Companies like Bechtel, cybersecurity pioneers Darktrace and VisionRT, and the Raspberry Pi Foundation, all finalists for the Royal Academy of Engineering MacRobert Award, were exhibitors at the launch event.
Government Support and Funding
The UK government backed the Year of Engineering with investment and policy measures to support STEM education and diversity initiatives within engineering. The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark, and the Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling, both emphasised the government's commitment to strengthening engineering.
Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
The initiative sought to challenge traditional perceptions and tackle a lack of diversity in the engineering profession. Efforts to address diversity included partnerships with organizations promoting gender equality and inclusion of minorities.
Professional Recognition and Skill Development
Initiatives such as skills challenges, competitions, and professional registration campaigns helped spotlight engineering talent and promote career progression pathways.
Looking Ahead
While the precise details of the 2018 Year of Engineering may not be fully documented, its components align closely with the UK government’s and industry’s approach to promoting engineering careers and improving diversity. Ongoing efforts have expanded through newer partnerships and grants, such as the 2025 Women in Engineering Grants and military veteran employment initiatives in the construction and engineering sectors.
Despite the success of the Year of Engineering 2018, a shortfall of 20,000 engineering graduates every year is impacting productivity and growth in the UK. The need for continued efforts to inspire young people, particularly underrepresented groups, to consider engineering as a profession remains crucial.
