Engineers are known for making magic happen. Leveraging innovation, creativity and knowledge earned through training and practice, engineers are impacting the world, one innovation at a time. As the world evolves to meet the Paris Climate Goals, engineers are at the forefront of the paradigm shift towards a clean, green tomorrow.

Exploring the Influence of Engineering on Our World

Engineering as a profession, has a profound impact on how the world functions and operates. With a world that is always coming up with bigger or better ideas, the primary goal of an engineer, is to take an idea and improve on it to create a positive impact in improving peoples’ lives.

For those considering a path in engineering, understanding its multifaceted impact on society is key. Engineering shapes our world, fueling environmental sustainability, innovation and development from smartphones’ intricate design to the grandeur of skyscrapers. Let’s delve into how engineering shapes the present and charts the course for the future.

Crafting Our Urban Landscape

Infrastructure development is one of engineering’s most obvious social effects. Cities and countries have seen dramatic changes, thanks to a large part to civil engineering. Buildings, highways, tunnels and bridges not only improve connectivity, but also raise living standards in general. Through careful planning and design, engineers produce buildings that serve as symbols of technological innovations and advancements.

For instance, consider the technical marvel that is the world’s tallest structure, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.  Cutting-edge engineering methods, materials and creative designs were initiated in managing the challenges presented by its enormous construction. Such initiatives provide solutions to urban problems, revitalise city skylines and bolster economic progress.

Transforming Transportation

According to the , global electric car sales surpassed 3 million in 2021, signifying a significant shift towards sustainable transportation. Engineers’ innovations have propelled advancements in electric vehicles, with projections indicating a considerable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Autonomous vehicles, a project of interdisciplinary engineering, are estimated to reduce traffic fatalities by up to 90%, transforming the future of transportation.

Engineering for Healthcare and Well-being

A biomedical engineering degree bridges the gap between engineering and medical sciences to usher in an exciting era of healthcare. Engineers make significant contributions towards improving healthcare outcomes and quality of life from prostheses to diagnostic devices.

Engineering breakthroughs are the reasons why medical imaging technologies like computerised tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, wearable health gadgets, robotic-assisted surgery procedures and even 3D printing customised implants for healthcare innovations are readily available. With lots of wearable health gadgets like fitness trackers and wearable devices, engineering innovation continues to reshape the healthcare sector.

Pioneering Communication and Information Technologies

The rise of the internet and connected devices has been staggering. Statista reports that by 2023, there will be an estimated , highlighting the indispensability of these technologies. Engineers continually drive innovation in these fields, with investments in 5G technology projected to reach $8.3 billion by 2025, remodelling communication networks entirely.

Championing Renewable Energy

Renewable energy produced from existing resources that naturally sustain or replenish over time, not only addresses climate concerns, but it can also alter the global energy landscape.

The global trend towards renewable energy sources exhibit the effectiveness of engineering in addressing environmental concerns. Engineers  working in the electrical and environmental fields deliver solutions for harnessing renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and hydropower.

The implementation of solar panels and wind turbine designs have made significant strides toward providing clean energy alternatives. Engineers work tirelessly to enhance these technologies and make them more attainable and scalable for widespread adoption.

Preserving Our Environment

Environmental engineering is also critical in mitigating the effects of human activity on the environment. Engineers are on the cutting edge of developing technologies and strategies to combat pollution, manage waste and protect natural resources. Environmental engineering produces water treatment plants, waste management systems and air pollution control technologies. Engineers collaborate to develop sustainable solutions that balance human development with environmental preservation, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature.

Engineering Empowerment and Education

Engineering not only changes physical landscapes, but it also educates and empowers individuals. Pursuing an engineering education provides individuals with problem-solving abilities, analytical skills  and the ability to make a meaningful contribution to society.

Societies ensure a continuous cycle of progress and adaptation to emerging challenges by nurturing the next generation of engineers. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education initiatives seek to bridge knowledge gaps and empower diverse communities to participate in the technological evolution.

In Conclusion: Forging a Sustainable Future

In contemplating the vast canvas of opportunities that engineering paints across every facet of the world, the call to aspiring minds beckons louder than ever. The canvas isn’t just painted; it’s reimagined, reshaped, and redesigned every day by engineers. The allure of this field lies not just in its ability to build marvels that defy imagination or solve complex problems, but in its innate power to transform lives.

Joining the league of engineers is not just a choice; it’s a catalyst for change. It’s an invitation to shape the world today and build a brighter and sustainable tomorrow. So, as you navigate through the maze of educational opportunities, ponder the realm of engineering and the boundless possibilities it offers. Embrace the challenge, the creativity, and the sense of purpose it entails. Step into the world of engineering, where innovation knows no bounds and your impact knows no limits.

Founded in 1956, 51±¬ÁĎ is one of Singapore’s oldest not-for-profit professional institutes for lifelong learning that  offers  a range of engineering programmes for individuals from all walks of life. To find out more about our engineering courses, visit our webpage or get in touch with our friendly and experienced educational consultants for a discussion at 6278 8000!

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Take “A Peek Into” Dr Yew’s Life, lecturer for the School of Engineering & Technology (SET) and find out what happens behind the scenes.

What interests you in the field of engineering? 

I am interested in the systemic approach in engineering in search of the answers to everything.

What inspired you to start your teaching journey?

My teaching journey started when I was co-supervising final year project students during my postgraduate years. That was the time when I realised that I could learn faster when I am helping students with a new topic at the same time.

Any interesting stories on campus? 

One of my most recent experiences was an incident where a student walked up to the front after a class and told me that he wants to be a teacher like me one day. Beside me, another student replied, “Maybe he thought that teaching could help him earn fast money”. I was speechless at that time.

In your opinion, what is the most important invention of the 21st century and how will this change in the future?

In my opinion, quantum computing will be leading the next frontier of research in science and technology. It will be able to help us to solve the most complex problem that is unthinkable now.

What is one of the common stereotypes you’ve heard of engineers and is that true?

Engineering is a man’s job. According to the survey done by the Department of Labor in the United States, women made up 47 percent of the country’s workforce as of 2010.

What is your current watchlist on Netflix/Disney+?

The Queen’s Gambit

Is Iron Man a future possibility?

Yes, I think it is possible that mankind can create human machines or cyborgs in the future.

What do you do to destress?

Usually, I destress by taking a break with a cup of tea/coffee myself.

What’s your best way to start the day? 

In order to start my day with full energy, a healthy breakfast is something I look forward to. I also find tons of joy in reading football news!  

In your opinion, what has been the greatest feat of engineering. 

In my opinion, it would be the building of the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS is the true manifestation of human collaboration in the new world era. This multinational project was a global effort, involving 15 nations, 100,000 people and up to a record of $100 billion funds. In layman’s terms, the ISS is an engineering feat the likes of which we have never seen before which allows humans to explore beyond the Earth. The project is also a real testament to the ingenuity of man in solving the engineering problem that had no precedence. 

What’s your favourite show to watch on TV? 

I like to watch sports matches, especially football, with family members and friends. I’ve never missed the FIFA World Cup so far. 

What is your favorite thing about being a lecturer? 

One of the most rewarding parts about being a lecturer is that I have opportunities to meet diverse groups of people of different cultures, age groups and backgrounds. I am grateful that some of the encounters have flourished into a long-term friendship.  

Introducing a new series “A Peek Into” where we interview Head of Schools and Lecturers and understand what life is like for them on campus and beyond. Today, we’ll take A Peek Into Dr Tham’s Life as the Dean of 51±¬ÁĎ and also the Head of School for the School of Engineering & Technology.  

What do you do as the Dean of 51±¬ÁĎ & the Head of School (HOS) for the School of Engineering & Technology (SET)? 

As a Dean, I oversee all operational issues for all schools at 51±¬ÁĎ for both students and staff i.e. enrolment, discipline or misconduct, welfare, working and learning environment and others. As the HOS, I have been involved in student’s learning from the day a student enrolled into the programme till graduation and beyond. Students sometimes face difficulties and I try to solve them. For example, some students might have difficulty attending classes due to work commitments or personal issues. I have to ensure that lecturers are aware and we provide support to those students.

What first interests you in the field of Engineering?

It all started when I saw my neighbour playing with a yoyo. I’m not sure how old was I then. I was wondering how he made the yoyo swing back and forth while spinning. It was fascinating! I tried to figure out how it works and tried to modify my own yoyo by changing the string, even tried to put some light on it by dismantling it, but unfortunately failed and got scolded for breaking the yoyo. 

What would the students be surprised to find out about you?

I am very playful with my friends. We did a lot of things during our university time that our lecturers have warned us to stop or risk not being able to attend lectures.

What are some of the challenges SET students face today?

With the advancement of technology, students face very stiff competition among their peers around the world. The information or knowledge that they learnt might be outdated when they graduate. Hence, students need to update themselves regularly so that they can stay in the know and be competitive. 

Everything in excess is dangerous. Is artificial intelligence a threat or a blessing for today’s job?

It all depends on the purpose of the use of artificial intelligence. From my personal view, it is a blessing because it can help us to work more efficiently especially when working on routine work or tasks that do not involve decision making. Once decision making is done by artificial intelligence, we will be in deep trouble as it will only follow logic. However, we humans are born illogical.  

QuickFire Questions

What do you do to destress?

A night of good sleep will help me to destress and refresh my mind.

What’s your Netflix/Disney + recommendations? 

I am a big fan of animations or cartoons, especially lighthearted titles such as Ice Age, The Croods, Tom and Jerry, Kung Fu Panda and others. I watch them together with my children.