Change is a constant-modernising the Institution for a new era

摘要

It has been an enormous privilege in recent days to join the President in signing certificates for those who have recently celebrated the completion of 50 years' membership of this Institution. In any language or measure, this is a considerable milestone, and for those of us who are able to remember back that far, it does not take too much reflection on our own life stories and experiences to realise the enormous change in the world, the workplace and our personal circumstances over that time. Gratifying though it is to reflect, spare a thought for the current 17 500 student and graduate members of the Institution. They, of course, do not have the direct benefit of the significant experience gained over a 50-year career but, almost certainly, they share the same desire as those young structural engineers 'back in the day', who were developing their careers, making their mark in their chosen field and no doubt wanting to fit into an Institution that they most likely felt was in need of modernising! The Institution does, of course, adapt and change to maintain its relevance and appeal. As each generation looks back, they will see an organisation that, for better (or worse), has balanced modernisation with the prudence befitting a professional body of good standing and international reputation.