National Engineering Day 2025 Press Release:

This year, National Engineering Day marks the launch of This is Engineering’s AI-Z of Engineering guide, an evolving resource designed to inspire the next generation into the exciting possibilities of modern engineering. The guide has had input from real engineers across every sector, showing what engineers do today and how they could progress in the future to build a more promising sector for upcoming engineers.

The guide was launched to combat current outdated perceptions of engineering hindering young people from choosing it as a career. By showcasing the creativity, opportunities and real-world impact of engineers, This is Engineering aims to foster greater inclusion address the growing skills gap whilst also celebrating engineers and engineering.

We spoke to our colleagues within industry who gave their thoughts on their current role and how they imagine it evolving in the future.

Sophia Sampethai, JIP Proposal Manager, gave her thoughts on how she envisions AI playing a role in engineering and the importance of inspiring future talent:

 “With a world that is overwhelmed as AI takes over a lot of tasks and activities, the role of engineers is more crucial than ever. This is the right time to spread the word about engineering being a means to support societies to solve global challenges and to engage with the young generation to inspire them to go towards an engineering career with more confidence. Being an engineer supports the development of a creative mind-set that is always able to find a path forward. This is the best way of creating a better future for the whole society. The use of AI in a targeted way can be a great tool to support my day to day activities by accelerating outputs of specific tasks and leaving more time to focus on the identification and development of innovative concept ideas that can take research to the next level.”

Sophie Thompson, Laboratory Technician reflected on how she imagines her current role growing with modern technology:

 “I currently work as a laboratory technician, specialising in hydrogen analysis. By 2050, I envision myself as a materials engineer developing advanced, sustainable materials that drive innovation and improve quality of life. While technology and AI will enhance our capabilities, my focus will remain on creating solutions that benefit both society and the environment.”

Access the newly launched AI-Z of Engineering guide today.

Watch Paul Woollin's full interview.