IStructE’s Young Members Panel offers a unique opportunity for early-career structural engineers to help shape the future of the profession while developing their own skills, networks and confidence.
More than a representative working group, the panel provides a platform for young engineers from across the world to influence the Institution's work, champion the issues that matter most to their generation, and contribute to meaningful change within the industry.
In this first-hand account, James D’Ambrosio reflects on his experience of joining the Young Members Panel and the impact it has had on his professional journey.
A common goal
The IStructE has been my professional point of reference throughout my career, from student to young professional. I have found the institution’s community and resources (particularly those relating to climate change and responsibility) invaluable.
When I started out in my career as a structural engineer, the IStructE was, already then, advocating for sustainability in our profession. In parallel, I felt like our industry was too slow in taking on radical change in the face of the climate emergency. At that point I knew it was time for action, so I joined the Young Members Panel (YMP).
Being an active member of the Young Members Panel
I have been on the Panel since 2022. I was accepted onto the Panel during my first year of employment post-graduation. At the time, I was relatively inexperienced in structural engineering. However, I was passionate about our built environment and our planet, and I was willing to get involved. And that was enough to be part of this group and to contribute towards positive change.
The Young Members Panel is composed of up to 15 people under the age of 35 to represent and champion the views of young engineers across the world. As a Panel member, I have helped organise the annual Young Engineers Conference, contributing to an event that inspires, connects and develops the next generation of structural engineers. Alongside preparing the annual Young Engineers Conference, the Panel meets regularly to discuss issues affecting young members and passes on their views to Headquarters and to the Council.
A personal highlight of being on the Panel was the opportunity to engage with students. I have had the opportunity to share my professional journey, as well as talking to students about the benefits of being part of the Institution. It is enriching to be able to talk to younger people and hear their stories and concerns first-hand, realising that we have many shared concerns about the future and about our careers as structural engineers. It has been empowering to be able to share a passion for structural engineering, the Institution and sustainability, to be able to stand up and talk about issues that matter. Throughout my time on the Panel, I have grown in confidence in my ability to speak up.
Finding your voice
Being part of the Young Members Panel is a deeply rewarding experience. It gives you an insight into the way our professional institution works, it allows you to build and cultivate relationships with peers and it gives you a platform to be active in changing our industry for the better.
Bring your ideas. Bring your curiosity. Bring your voice. Join the Young Members Panel and help shape the future of structural engineering.
If you are passionate about the future of structural engineering and want to help shape the direction of the profession, join the Young Members Panel today. We value your willingness to contribute, your shared perspectives and your experiences. The profession needs the voices, ideas and ambition of young engineers, and the Young Members Panel provides a platform to ensure those voices are heard.
Learn more about the Young Members Panel, and get involved today