Forum: Steps taken to boost engineering careers
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We thank Liu Fook Thim for highlighting the vital importance of engineering and engineers to Singapore’s future (Let’s look at attrition in engineers, too, June 26). We recognise that engineering talent is a strategic national asset. The attrition and retention challenges facing the profession remain an ongoing concern.
While the role of the engineer is being fundamentally redefined, what must remain the same is the cultivation of the engineering mindset – the ability to solve complex, systemic problems using proven methodologies. This capability is increasingly critical as the profession expands to encompass emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics and cybersecurity.
Alongside a new range of training programmes and seminars on sustainability, climate change and engineering safety, The Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES), in collaboration with NTUC, has rolled out dedicated leadership courses to help engineers develop the management, communication and strategic skills to take on broader roles, and to see engineering as a lifelong calling, not just an early career choice.
IES has also partnered industry and government agencies to establish chartered engineer registries that strengthen professional standards, competencies and recognition.
To encourage more young people to pursue engineering as a profession, IES has established a youth task force to expand ecosystem support with the institutes of higher learning (IHLs) and industry partners through structured internships, mentorship programmes and student chapters across IHLs, including institutes of technical education.
We will continue our close collaboration with government agencies, industry partners and IHLs to transform the engineering profession and create stronger, more meaningful career pathways for young Singaporeans.
As Liu rightly noted, these are “not simply workforce issues”. Ensuring Singapore has a resilient, future-ready engineering fraternity is a national imperative. By working together, we can ensure the profession remains a vibrant cornerstone of Singapore’s long-term success.
Mervyn Sirisena
President
The Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES)
