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The world and its technologies are rapidly evolving, and engineers are at the forefront, playing a vital role in innovation, sovereign capability and nation building. It’s more important than ever for engineers to continuously learn, adapt, pivot and advance their careers.
Engineers Australia CEO Romilly Madew AO emphasises the necessity for engineers to ensure their knowledge and skills remain relevant in an ever-changing profession.
“Engineers must constantly develop and retain the ability to learn,” she advises. Skills such as communication, stakeholder engagement, risk management and ethical practice are essential and must be continually honed.”
As we step into the 2024 working year, consider integrating these five goals into your career plan.
1. Build your communication skills.
While technical competency is a given for engineers, successful project execution often hinges on effective communication and people skills. Engineers Australia offers various professional development to maintain and enhance these skills. Micro-credentials provide flexible pathways for engineers to build and verify their skills to a recognised standard based on past or current work experiences.
“Numerous webinars and on-demand videos are available free to our members. Alternately, working towards a Chartered credential can be an excellent way to recognise both technical and leadership abilities, which are kept current through lifelong learning and continuing professional development,” Ms Madew suggests.
Start by engaging in webinars that focus on improving your ability to pitch, present and communicate more effectively. You can find webinars to help you apply these skills relevant to your field, like defence business tendering processes.
For a limited time, non-members can access a selection of Engineers Australia’s on-demand videos and webinars from the EA OnDemand platform free for one month.
2. Keep your technical expertise up to scratch.
Staying abreast of the latest information and emerging technologies is increasingly crucial. Membership with Engineers Australia includes complimentary access to technical journals, the world’s largest engineering database, discounts on engineering short courses and micro-credentials.
3. Extend your professional network.
Engaging with the wider engineering community is not just about building a professional network; it's also an opportunity to make a significant impact. Joining an organisation like Engineers Australia allows you to connect with engineers from various disciplines and backgrounds. This can be achieved through local events, mentoring opportunities, online communities, and forums.
4. Keep up with trends and forecasts.
Staying informed about innovative ideas and technologies is key to remaining relevant and cultivating unique solutions. Subscribe to industry publications for regular inspiration to apply in your work. As a member of Engineers Australia, enjoy discounted tickets to engineering conferences featuring world-class leaders and innovators.
5. Get involved with the engineering community to make a difference.
Volunteering within the engineering community offers a unique way to contribute positively to the field. Ms Madew emphasises, "Volunteering is an excellent way to give back, allowing you to have a positive influence on the future of engineering. This includes participating in policy and advocacy on behalf of the profession."
By combining networking with community involvement, you not only extend your professional connections but also play a crucial role in shaping the future of engineering.
For a limited time, you can sign up for a free one-month trial, with access to over 100 hours of Engineers Australia’s best streaming content. Enter 2024 stronger than ever. Visit engaus.org/contenttrial2024 for more information.
