Young engineers and scientists are the lifeblood of the marine industry, and with this in mind, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) has an extremely active Young Members’ Network, designed to support the early careers of marine and offshore professionals.
“The IMarEST needs its young members to play a central role in the development of the Institute,” explains Chief Executive, Keith Read CBE. “The IMarEST’s Young Members’ Network helps to focus our attention.”
One young member who is playing a central role in IMarEST, and the Network, is Francis Udom a project engineer working in the FPSO Group, Integrity Service Department of Lloyd’s Register EMEA in Aberdeen, who has recently been appointed Chair of the Young Members’ Network. He has taken over the role from Dr Paul Jukes, Advanced Engineering Manager, JP Kenny, based in Houston.
Looking forward to his time in office, Francis Udom, who has been actively involved with the network for five years, explains: “I would like to encourage, motivate and provide support to all the Young Members of the Institute by becoming involved – and encouraging them to do the same – with the IMarEST Marine Voices campaign; and coordinating our National Science and Engineering Week activity. The Network also has plans to become involved with the organisation of a national event to increase awareness of global warming.
“Above all though, I would like to be instrumental in promoting the concept of careers in marine/offshore engineer, science and technology to the wider community.
“Over the past five years the Network offered me the opportunity of meeting other young IMarEST members both formally and informally, networking with other professionals working in the marine environment; keeping up-to-date with what’s going on in other areas of the industry; and the chance to have a say in the future development of IMarEST activities and initiatives.”
Looking back
“I have been very proud of holding the position of Chair of the Network for the past year,” says Paul Jukes. “It has been a real pleasure to work with such dedicated Regional Co-ordinators without whose hard work and effort, Young Members’ activities would not have been possible – and the social events and networking have been great fun too! I wish Francis every success in his new role.”
Looking back over his year in office he recalls particular highlights including the Regional Co-ordinators meeting in Aberdeen to which he flew from Houston in order to present the benefits of being in the Network to local members and students; and helping to start up what is now a very active Houston Young Members’ Network.
“An ongoing highlight throughout the year has been meeting young members and other young people and relishing their enthusiasm at the idea of taking up an exciting career in engineering, science and technology,” he explains. “There is no doubt that the Network helps to increase awareness of career choices and paths; and there is greater understanding too of the importance of young people in engineering, science and technology.
“I have enjoyed acting as the bridge between young and less experienced people and the older and more experienced generation. I have a passion for life, and for my job as an engineer – I hope that that has helped to convince young people that engineering, science and technology careers are rewarding and fun!”
Further information on the Young Members’ Network, which is open to all young members of IMarEST is available from membership@imarest.org with membership details on the web at www.imarest.org/membership.
