Series 18 – Episode 5 – re-launch of the Systems Change Lab

Engineers Without Borders UK is pioneering a groundbreaking initiative to reshape engineering education and practice through the Systems Change Lab, a collaborative programme aimed at driving systemic change in the engineering sector.

The lab brings together educators, students, industry professionals, and institutions with a critical mission: to address the urgent challenges of climate breakdown, social inequality, and unsustainable resource use. Currently, over 50-60% of UK engineering degrees fail to fully integrate sustainability, ethics, and inclusivity as core principles, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive transformation.

Carey explains that the traditional view of engineering as a purely technical discipline is rapidly evolving. The lab challenges stereotypical perceptions, advocating for engineers to be holistic systems thinkers who consider equality, ethics, and sustainability in their approach.

The 2023-2024 phase focused primarily on engineering education, convening 200 change makers from 25 universities and 22 companies. Key insights revealed significant gaps between corporate sustainability strategies and day-to-day practices, as well as the tendency to treat sustainability as an optional add-on rather than an integral component of engineering education.

Ramboll, a global engineering consultancy, has partnered with Engineers Without Borders to provide strategic support through their pro bono activities. Fernandez emphasises the importance of creating an inclusive space that welcomes diverse perspectives and participants who might not typically be part of such conversations.

Participation in the Systems Change Lab is designed to be flexible and accessible. Interested individuals can join task and finish groups with varying levels of engagement – from high-intensity involvement to more occasional participation. These groups work towards specific goals, aiming to create tangible outcomes and drive incremental change.

The lab's objectives for the current phase include building stronger networks across the engineering sector, fostering relationships between professional institutions, academia, and industry, and identifying clear problem statements with actionable plans. The approach is deliberately incremental, recognising that systemic change cannot happen overnight.

Crucially, the initiative is participant-driven and participant-led, embracing uncertainty and allowing organic development of ideas. The goal is to create momentum towards a globally responsible engineering sector, with the potential for continued exploration beyond the current phase.

For those interested in contributing to this transformative initiative, Engineers Without Borders UK encourages individuals to visit the website and explore the Systems Change Lab's task and finish groups. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply passionate about sustainable engineering, there's an opportunity to get involved.

To hear more from Ellie Carey and Eva Fernandez, you can listen to Electronic Specifier’s interview on Spotify or Apple podcasts.