Welcome from the editor
Welcome to the July-August issue of IET Member News.
This edition brings together stories that reflect the breadth of our community – from engineering excellence to volunteering, learning and remembrance. As ever, it is you, our members, who sit at the heart of everything we do, and I’m delighted to share some of the inspiring contributions featured in these pages.
Earlier this year, we launched our ‘Switched on to Safety’ campaign alongside the publication of Amendment 4 to the IET Wiring Regulations. The campaign generated coverage across the UK and helped reinforce the vital role engineers and electricians play in protecting public safety. On page 3, we take a deeper look at the campaign and the national conversation it sparked.
Volunteering also remains central to what we do and, on page 4, you’ll find an update on our upcoming Festival of Volunteering, a global celebration of the people who make our community thrive. This is more than an event – it’s a recognition of the vital role our volunteers play in shaping the future of engineering.
We’re also proud to share member stories from across our global community. Our IET India Scholarship Award winner Rithika SK reflects candidly on her journey, from embracing failure and building supportive communities to achieving national recognition. We also speak with Raj Thaker MIET, an AI infrastructure architect at Google, who shares insights into his career path and offers thoughtful advice for engineers navigating the fast‑evolving world of AI.
This issue also includes a volunteer spotlight and highlights from our recent Future Talent Awards. Alongside moments of reflection, we remember John Nash CEng MIET. We also extend our sincere thanks to the family of past IET President Dr Malcolm Kennedy for their generous £10,000 donation to the IET Futures Fund – a lasting gesture that will support and inspire future generations of engineers.
If you have a story to share, a milestone to celebrate or an idea to explore, we’d love to hear from you at membernews@theiet.org and to keep the conversation going on EngX and across our social media channels at @InstitutionofEngineeringandTechnology on LinkedIn and @TheIET on Instagram.
Member notice
There is always support with Foothold. Foothold is the benevolent fund for the IET and has been supporting engineers since 1890. The charity provides lifelong support to IET members and their families, including into retirement. From means‑tested financial help to free wellbeing support and practical advice, Foothold exists to ensure engineers never have to face life’s challenges alone.
Find out more about their support at: https://www.myfoothold.org/iet/
Megan Stearn
Member News Editor
Keep up to date with member notices online
Member News now brings you more regular articles, insights, and case studies directly from our members.
We still publish obituaries, gifts and legacies, member suspensions and expulsions, and further member updates in-between issues – all of which can be found on our website.
Head to theiet.org and use the search bar to find content relevant to you.