The focus was on the contributions engineers make to society, with special emphasis on the engineering profession’s work to inspire the next generation.
Professor Dame Ann Dowling, president of the Royal Academy of Engineering, celebrated the work of British engineers, including Thomas Telford and Robert Stephenson, who are buried at the abbey.
Dowling also talked about the role of engineers in the future: “Engineering expertise will be key to tackling the global challenges we face in the years to come. Engineers will play a central role in addressing the effects of climate change and rising sea levels. They will help to ensure that our growing population will have access to food, water, clean energy and affordable healthcare.”
Our Chief Executive Katie read a prayer as part of the service. Engineers Without Borders UK was the nominated charity and we’d like to thank everyone that donated during the event. We raised over £3,500.
Chris Grayling, Secretary of State for Transport, said:
In a year which has seen government and industry join forces to raise the bar for inspiring the next generation of engineers, what could be more fitting than to come together to celebrate the contribution that engineers have made and will continue to make to all of our lives?
The Year of Engineering has been a chance to show young people across the UK all that this profession has to offer them – and to spread the message that engineering needs talented young people from all walks of life to tackle some of the biggest challenges we face.
We’d like to thank the ICE, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the government for organising the service and highlighting the fantastic work of engineers.
