Apprentice-turned-President Sam Hubbard to lead the Institution of Engineering and Technology

With more than 30 years' experience across paper manufacturing and the nuclear sector, Sam's presidential focus, E²: Everyday Engineers, celebrates the often-unsung engineers and technicians whose skills, expertise and dedication underpin everyday life.

Sam takes office at a time when the UK engineering sector is focused on developing the skilled workforce needed to deliver future economic growth, technological innovation and the transition to a more sustainable future. As employers continue to face growing demand for engineering and technical skills, her presidency will highlight the importance of attracting, retaining and developing talent through apprenticeships, professional registration, lifelong learning and strong professional networks.

Sam's route into engineering was far from traditional unorthodox. After initially leaving university to pursue an apprenticeship, she built her career through practical engineering experience before later returning to higher education part-time. Her career has included roles within paper manufacturing and uranium enrichment, where she has worked across maintenance, systems engineering, engineering projects and leadership positions. Today, she is Senior Electrical and Control Engineer at Urenco, where she is responsible for complex engineering programmes and project delivery. Throughout her career, she has remained passionate about championing practical engineering skills and ensuring technicians and apprentices are recognised for the vital role they play within the profession.

A dedicated volunteer since 1999, Sam has held numerous leadership roles across the IET, including Trustee, Council member and Board Chair positions, as well as representing the IET as a Trustee of the Engineering Council. She is also a Fellow of the IET and has long been committed to ensuring the voices of technicians, Incorporated Engineers and apprentices are represented throughout the profession.

Alongside her professional achievements, Sam has been a strong advocate for STEM outreach throughout her career. As a former Young Woman Engineer of the Year winner and recipient of the WISE Excellence Award, she has spent decades encouraging young people, particularly girls and young women, to consider careers in engineering. Her volunteering has included countless school visits, recruitment events and outreach initiatives designed to demonstrate the opportunities engineering can provide.

On becoming IET President, Sam said:

"I am incredibly honoured to take on the role of President of the IET, a community that has been an important part of my life for more than 25 years.

"My own path into engineering wasn't a straight line, and that's one of the reasons I care so deeply about ensuring everyone feels they belong in our profession, regardless of their background or route into engineering.

"Throughout my career, I've seen first-hand that progress rarely happens alone. Whether it's solving problems, sharing knowledge, mentoring others or creating opportunities, our greatest impact comes when people connect. My presidential theme, E²: Everyday Engineers, celebrates the engineers and technicians who quietly make a difference every day and highlights the extraordinary things we can achieve when we come together as a community."

Sam will take office on 8 October 2026, succeeding Dawn Ohlson, whose presidency focused on the impact of volunteering across the engineering profession.

Ed Almond, Chief Executive and Secretary at the IET, said:

"Sam brings a unique combination of practical engineering expertise, experience across multiple volunteer and governance roles within the IET, and a strong commitment to supporting people throughout their careers. Her journey from apprentice to President reflects the determination, resilience and practical problem-solving mindset that have defined her career.

"Her focus on connection, community and impact, together with her commitment to championing practising engineers and technicians, strongly reflects the values of the IET. We look forward to working with Sam as she champions the power of networks and communities to inspire more people to engage with our profession throughout the coming year."

In her inaugural President's Address, E²: Everyday Engineers, Sam will explore how engineers and technicians create greater impact when they connect through professional communities, networks and shared experiences. Drawing on stories from her own career, alongside examples of collaboration and inclusive engineering, she will highlight the importance of belonging, connection and understanding different perspectives in engineering. 

The President's Address will take place on Thursday, 8 October 2026, at IET London: Savoy Place and will also be broadcast live via the IET’s YouTube channel. To find out more and register your attendance, please visit: theiet.org/presidents-address