Institution of Civil Engineers | Vice President's view

Measuring members' expertise

Continuing professional development (CPD) plays a crucial role in maintaining up to date skills and ensuring the safety of the infrastructure we all rely on. In a constantly evolving world where tackling the effects of climate change and the biodiversity crisis are imperative, infrastructure professionals must actively engage in keeping their knowledge up to date.

ANUSHA SHAH

If we are to provide society with the assurance that the infrastructure we build is safe, inclusive, resilient, sustainable and fit for purpose, we must all be prepared to demonstrate our competence throughout our careers. The shocking Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 brought the issue into sharp focus. The tragedy prompted our industry to look at whether it was doing enough to mitigate the risks of infrastructure failure and resulted in the publication of 2018’s In Plain Sight report.

The report made recommendations aimed at the ICE and the wider industry, regarding lesson sharing, competence and governance.

It is a sign of how important the Institution’s Trustees take assuring the whole life safety of infrastructure that the recommendations have been incorporated into the ICE’s plans.

Work done to implement the recommendations includes an increase in the number of CPD audits, as well as the development of specialist registers and the creation of the ICE CPD Framework.

A good deal of progress has been made but we cannot rest on our laurels. Over the course of several meetings, Trustees and Council have discussed what more can be done to encourage members to take their ongoing development seriously.

And as the ICE is a member-led organisation, it is important that every member has the chance to shape the future of CPD. As the chair of the CPD consultation steering group, I am keen to hear your views about which activities and competencies should be mandatory and for whom, as well as how we should decide this.

How do members develop competence in these areas and what role, if any, should the ICE play in supporting them? How does the ICE assess competence in mandatory CPD topics?

To have your say, I encourage you to sign up to one of our focus groups, complete an online survey or join our webinar. Find out more at ice.org.uk/cpd.youachieveit

The work the regional affairs committee is doing is to benefit ICE members at a local and regional level. We want to hear from them engage with them and better support them in their professional careers.

I encourage members to reach out, attend local meetings and events and use the resources available – the Institution is yours. We are here for you.

Anusha Shah is ICE senior vice president