2010

Award Diploma: Clement Thirion - Clement Thirion's entry

Commendation: Michael Smales - Michael Smales entry
Commendation: Jonathan Bailey - Jonathan Bailey's entry

The structural engineers' role in overcoming Professor Beddington’s Perfect Storm of Global Events in 2030. Climate Change, embodied CO2 and sustainability together constitute the key global challenge and uncertainty for the second decade of the 21st century and we have reached the tipping point whereby procrastination is no longer an option to these worldwide challenges.

Professor John Beddington in his paper on ‘Food, Energy, Water and the Climate: A Perfect Storm of Global Events?’ predicts by 2030: “the world will need to produce 50% more food and energy and 30% more water than at present, whilst mitigating and adapting to climate change.”

This is his ‘Perfect Storm’ and combines the challenges of food and water storages with the challenges of climate change.

2030, at twenty years time, is less than half a career away and structural engineers will need to deliver solutions that mitigate both climate change and food and water shortages.

Young members are already aware of these environmental issues and keen to rise to these challenges. They will be the generation that delivers and manages the solutions required over the next 20 years and hence the title of the 2010 Kenneth Severn Young Members Paper.

Reference: Food, Energy, Water and the Climate: A Perfect Storm of Global Events? by Professor J Beddington, Chief Scientific Adviser to HM Government;

2008

Award Diploma: Rebecca Vivian - Changing the perception of structural engineers
 

2007

Award Diploma: 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

Award Diploma: 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.