ICE Council meeting - October 2026

At its recent meeting, council members discussed how the institution can strengthen member engagement, reviewed progress on key knowledge and policy initiatives, and heard updates on the work being carried out across the organisation.

Discussions also reflected on the ICE’s role as the voice of the profession and how it can support members throughout their careers.

Focusing on the member journey

Council had an update from the Membership Committee on work underway to support delivery of the ICE’s 2030 Strategy. This committee has been exploring how the ICE can remain relevant, trusted and sustainable in a rapidly changing professional environment, focusing particularly on how members engage with the institution.

A key theme was the need to think beyond professional qualification as the end point of a member’s journey. While achieving Engineering Technician (EngTech), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) remains an important milestone, the ICE needs to maintain engagement and provide support throughout a member’s career and also encourage experienced engineers in leadership positions to become ICE Fellows.

The committee highlighted several priorities for further exploration, including:

• creating a clearer lifetime membership journey
• strengthening professional communities and networks
• enhancing support for international members
• improving visibility and accessibility of professional registration pathways
• supporting apprenticeships while maintaining high professional standards

Council members welcomed the focus on long-term engagement and retention, and emphasised the importance of ensuring all professional qualifications are valued and recognised. A more detailed workshop session will take place on this topic at the December council meeting.

Engineering excellence and productivity

Council received an update from Andy Alder and Darren James, co-chairs of the Engineering Excellence Community, which continues to support the development of knowledge, standards and guidance across the profession.

A major focus has been the development of PAS 4010, a new standard designed to improve productivity across the entire infrastructure lifecycle. Scheduled for launch in November, the standard aims to help clients, designers and contractors improve the effectiveness and efficiency of project delivery.

Council welcomed the progress being made and discussed the importance of ensuring standards and guidance remain central to the ICE’s role as a global professional institution. Members also highlighted the need to continue identifying emerging areas where the ICE can provide leadership and support to the profession.

Influencing policy and decision-making

Trustee Board member Jonathan Spruce provided an overview of the work of the Policy and External Affairs Committee and the staff team who support this work.

The committee helps shape the ICE’s policy positions and works with governments, policymakers and industry leaders to ensure engineering expertise informs infrastructure decision-making.

Council heard that in 2026, the ICE has contributed to government consultations, parliamentary activity, select committee inquiries and major industry discussions.

The team is also progressing work on a range of topics including public engagement with infrastructure, resilience and maintenance, and the impact of artificial intelligence on infrastructure delivery.

Council members were encouraged to engage with the policy programme, contribute expertise and consider opportunities to become Policy Fellows.

Supporting members through the Benevolent Fund

Kris Barnett, CEO of the ICE Benevolent Fund, presented on the work of this associated charity which provides financial, wellbeing and practical support to ICE members and their families.

The fund has expanded its range of services in recent years, supporting members through financial hardship, career challenges, mental health issues, neurodiversity assessments, counselling and family support.

The Benevolent Fund has already distributed more than £500,000 in financial assistance during 2026 and continues to provide support to members across the world.

Council members were encouraged to highlight the work of the ICE Benevolent Fund to our members, and to contribute to its important work either by getting involved or financially through a contribution as part of their membership subscriptions.

Recognising service and looking ahead

I closed my last meeting as president and chair of council by recognising the contribution of a number of members who are completing their terms on council and in particular paid tribute to immediate ICE Past President Jim Hall, for his leadership and for his service as a member of council.

I also reflected on the important role council plays as the voice of the membership and emphasised the need to focus on delivering value for members, strengthening collaboration between volunteers and staff, and maintaining an outward-looking perspective that serves society and the profession.

The next meeting of the ICE Council will take place on 15 December 2026.