15th September 2018

YoE: The Summer of Engineering Part 2

Marking its 51st year, the Institute of Structural Engineers (IStructE) announced the shortlist for the prestigious Structural Awards in August. Highlighting the best in engineering, the list included high profile projects such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, London’s Southbank Centre and the V&A Grain Silo Complex. It also comprises a large number of other lesser known albeit equally impressive projects, illustrating the crucial role engineering plays across all sectors internationally.

Just as much as the awards are an opportunity to celebrate the visions, innovations and achievements of both new and established engineers, they are a source of inspiration for young people. The shortlisted projects illustrate the potential for creativity and problem solving to thrive, embodied by a diverse selection of structures from around the world.

As students ready themselves for a new academic year, whether to start GCSE studies or to pursue an undergraduate degree, the Structural Awards are evidence that no matter one’s interests, they can be relevant to engineering. Sports enthusiasts can look to the Rwanda Cricket Stadium, shortlisted for the Special Award for Sustainability. Musicians have the Innovative Touring Frame from U2’s 2017 ‘Joshua Tree’ tour, up for Construction Innovation. The breathtaking Tamina Canyon Crossing, shortlisted for the Award for Vehicle Bridges, will appeal to geology lovers.

Whether a student aspires to be surrounded by nature’s grandeur or prefers a bustling urban landscape, wants to start from scratch or to improve what already exists, engineering provides a way forward.

Ongoing issues with skills shortages and diversity make these kinds of celebrations and examples of excellence all the more important. The women and men behind the shortlisted projects come from incredibly diverse backgrounds, cultures and experiences. It is from the interaction of their differences that creativity and innovation arise.

The Structural Awards remind us that there is no place for outdated stereotypes in engineering. It is the realm of problem solvers, humanitarians, mathematicians, artists and visionaries. It would be to the serious detriment of the profession to generalise this highly skilled, extraordinary group of people.