A Christmas message from IHE President Martin Polland
- Friday December 16, 2022
The year past has thrown many challenges our way. Despite regaining some form of normality after the pandemic, life still remains a different place for us. This year has shown how volatile the world around us is and conflicts many miles from our shores have affected our everyday lives. The IHE has continued to adapt and grow. We are delighted to have signed our first Academic-Professional Partnership agreement with a university and have several other major partners joining forces with us to further strengthen our links between academia and industry. Forging these bonds allows us to facilitate further development of aspiring engineers, enabling them to reach their full potential.
As President of the IHE, I take great pride in being part of a highly motivated professional team, which has continued to support our Institute and strive to develop new initiatives to serve our members. The success of the online training events has continued this year. We have also seen the resurrection of our Northern Ireland branch and discussions are ongoing with other potential branches thanks to the growth in membership. I would encourage all our members to engage with local branches. The branches are there to help members develop and grow their skills and knowledge. I am a great believer in trying to be the best you can be every day. My grandad encouraged me to learn something new every day and it’s something I would encourage all our members to do.
The climate emergency will be a key issue moving forward. As engineers, it is our responsibility to challenge the norms and adapt with more sustainable practices. The speed of change will continue to be fast. Technology, innovation and collaboration will undoubtedly be key. As Christmas approaches, I would like to wish you all peace, health, happiness and prosperity in the coming year. I also hope that the global conflicts are settled soon and
peace reigns as we enter 2023.
My thoughts and thanks to our members who will continue to work over the festive period delivering the vital services that will keep our country moving. As we say here in Scotland at New Year: ‘Lang may yer lum reek.’