By Edel Mullan, Civil Engineer, Ramboll
Engineers Week 2026 comes at a really crucial time for our industry. As a civil engineer, and as someone who volunteers to help deliver Engineers Week in Northern Ireland, I see how vital it is that we continue to inspire young people to understand what engineering really is and why it matters.
There are ongoing conversations about education, including whether maths should remain compulsory in schools. Whatever the outcome of those debates, one thing is clear; problem-solving, logical thinking, creativity and resilience are essential skills for the future. Engineering brings all of these together in a practical, meaningful way. It shows young people how what they learn in the classroom connects directly to the world around them, from transport and housing, to energy, water and the environment.
Engineers Week is about reaching children early, before they start to limit their own ambitions. There is a child sitting in a classroom somewhere in Northern Ireland today who will one day be a CEO, a community leader, a policy-maker or an innovator. If we can reach them through initiatives like Engineers Week and spark an interest in engineering, we help open doors they may never have considered.
READ MORE: Northern Ireland’s Celebration of Engineering Enters Its Third Year
Encouraging more girls into engineering remains a crucial priority. While progress has been made, women are still underrepresented across many engineering disciplines. Engineers Week gives girls the opportunity to meet engineers, hear real stories, and see that engineering is a career where they belong. Representation matters. Seeing women leading projects, solving problems and shaping communities helps challenge outdated stereotypes and builds confidence at a young age.
Importantly, Engineers Week helps ensure inclusion. Not every child grows up knowing an engineer or having exposure to traditionally 'professional' careers. By bringing activities directly into schools and communities, including rural areas, we give young people equal access to inspiration and opportunity, regardless of background or geography.
Engineering is not just about technical ability or numbers. It’s about teamwork, communication, creativity and responsibility. It’s about working with others to solve complex problems and make decisions that impact all of us. Engineers Week showcases that breadth, helping young people understand that engineering offers careers that are varied, rewarding and impactful.
As engineers, we have a responsibility to give back. Volunteering our time, sharing our experiences and opening up our workplaces helps build the future workforce our industry depends on.
Follow along with Engineers Week 2026 - search for Engineers Ireland Northern Region on LinkedIn.
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