The Institution of Structural Engineers
Kenneth Severn Award 2009 
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Kenneth Severn award2009
For any profession to thrive, it needs to develop new competences to add additional value to society and its clients - while, of course, maintaining its high standards in its traditional disciplines.

For structural engineers, there are opportunities in topics as diverse as: sustainability, building information modelling systems, risk and contaminated land.

 

Applications for the 2009 award has now closed.

Entrants were asked  submit a paper titled “What new competence(s) do you think the Institution should address and how should it provide leadership?” in no more than 4 sides of A4 (including images) to.

Points are awarded for originality, the value of the paper to the structural engineering profession and clarity of presentation. The winning paper will be published in The Structural Engineer (subject to appropriate review), and the author will receive a prize of £500 and the Kenneth Severn Diploma.

Entrants for the Kenneth Severn Award had to be 28 years of age or under on 1 January 2009. Entry is was not restricted to membership of the Institution.

 

History of the Kenneth Severn Award
The revised Kenneth Severn Award commemorates Kenneth Severn, President of the Institution from 1972-3, and is supported by the late Mr Severn's family and the Educational Trust.

 

Past winners

2009 No award.

2008

Rebecca Vivian - Changing the perception of structural engineers

2007

Nick Burdette (Arup) - Bridge engineering: turning problems into possibilities

The paper discusses the creative and dynamic process of bridge design and the challenge of building a structure which complements the natural surroundings. A number of excellent examples are given of projects that have dealt creatively with challenging circumstances, such as the threat of earthquakes and high winds.

The paper highlights the broad appeal that bridge design offers structural engineers, providing opportunities to utilise their skills as well as making a visible difference to the environment. 

2006

Tim Watson (Jenkins & Potter) - Making it happen; strengthening the appeal of engineering to young people

The paper outlined a possible approach in attracting more people to consider engineering as a profession. The paper recommended a targeted promotional campaign that would engage not only those considering their career paths but also parents, who are likely to give their children advice on suitable occupations. Also suggested was a closer working relationship with tertiary institutions to create more awareness of engineering.

The image of engineering is also a focal point in the submission, successfully building a case for revamping how the profession is perceived.