The Chamber of Engineers’ (CoE) 27th Annual Engineering Conference, themed Engineers Making A Difference in Challenging Times, was successfully held on the 14th November 2020 with the participation of a total 15 local and international speakers.
In view of the current Covid-19 situation, the Chamber hosted the conference online and was gauged as the typical opportunity to connect, learn and develop as evidenced by the numerous conference attendees.
The carefully selected theme was designed to provide a platform for case studies and sharing of experiences where engineers showed the crucial dual role they are currently undertaking. The first being the role required to play in these current and difficult circumstances and the role they are meant to play in general that goes beyond the pandemic.
Following a welcome address by CoE President Dr Inġ. Daniel Micallef, the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, the Hon. Dr Ian Borg delivered the opening speech. Dr. Borg emphasized that the success of any society is built on the strength of its professions. This is crucial, he added, and is central to the development of our country. In these times of unprecedented change, engineers have been instrumental in the delivery of successful projects the Government has undertaken. Engineers work in a multitude of sectors within his Ministry, Dr. Borg continued. They are an essential part of backbone of the country and the Government is committed to undertake an ongoing dialogue so as to ensure the availability of opportunities in training and education, as well as jobs with members of this profession.
Following Dr. Borg’s intervention, a number of speakers including past CoE President Inġ. Joseph Sammut, the Director-Engineering at Mater Dei Hospital Inġ. Noel Psaila, the Managing Director of the Central Supplies and Procurement Unit (CPSU), Inġ. Karl Farrugia, Inġ. Saviour Zammit from Multigas Ltd and Inġ Joseph Axiak from Tektraco Ltd. These experts were also joined by Mr. Hannes Treier of FEANI (European Federation of National Engineering Associations) and Dr Frederik Schulze Spüntrup, the President of European Young Engineers (EYE).
“We are thoroughly satisfied with the outcome of our first live-streamed Annual Conference. This medium has allowed us to extend our reach, not only locally but also from an international perspective.” explained Dr Inġ. Daniel Micallef, Chamber President, after the conference.
The Chamber of Engineers expressed its gratitude to its Corporate and Conference sponsors, namley Bank of Valletta, ESS & Elektra, Jesmond Mizzi Financial Services, Tuning Fork and Valsir.The latter had an active role in the conference whereby dedicated presentations in their respective field were presented as part of the conference programme.
Information on the Chamber’s activity can be found on their website www.coe.org.mt. A recording of the Annual Conference can be found via their Facebook Page.