News release

REME recruits urged to join the ranks of professional engineers with IMechE

For Immediate Release

New registration scheme aims to cut red-tape for REME engineers

A new fast-track approach to encourage members of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) to join the ranks of professional engineers has just got underway.  

One of the world’s leading engineering organisations, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), has joined forces with REME to offer a new streamlined application process to Engineering Council registration.  

It is envisaged that the scheme, available to all REME engineer officers, artificers and tradesmen, will encourage more to benefit from professional registration and enjoy the formal independent recognition of CEng/IEng/EngTech status.  

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by IMechE Chief Executive, Stephen Tetlow, a former Head of REME and Brigadier Brian McCall, Director Electrical and Mechanical Engineers [Army] (DEME [A]). As of this month, REME engineers will no longer need to submit lengthy reports, provide certificates of attendance on courses or create a Development Action Plan in support of their application for Chartered Engineer (CEng), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Engineering Technician (EngTech). Instead, they can now complete a simple two-page application form.  

For example, a Class 1 qualified Vehicle Mechanic tradesman within the Electromechanical trades group can apply for EngTech, a Warrant Officer on successful completion of the REME Warrant Officers’ Course (RWCO) can apply for IEng and Member of the IMechE (MIMechE). This is now achieved simply by providing evidence of completion of the course together with the REME application form. 

Similarly an Engineer Officer, on successful completion of LAD Command, can apply for CEng and MIMechE status, providing the academic requirements for CEng registration have also been met.  

Registration and membership of an engineering institution is recognised as becoming evermore important to serving Engineer Officers, Artificers and Tradesmen. It is also a highly valued professional qualification when seeking employment after leaving the Services.   Last year, IMechE was one of the fastest growing professional Institutions and the lead institution for registering engineers.  

IMechE Chief Executive, Stephen Tetlow, said: “The IMechE believes it is vital to offer REME the most effective and streamlined application process possible which is why we are introducing this new scheme. As a former Head of REME, I know how absolutely critical it is to the Corps to have the highest standard of engineering and professional competence at the heart of military operations. Engineering is one of those rare professions which can make a difference to the lives of those around us day in, day out. Being professionally qualified as an engineer is something everyone entering the profession should strive for.   

CEng/IEng/EngTech provides formal independent recognition of knowledge and skill.  It enhances your value and status within and beyond the Armed Forces.  It keeps you up to date and gives you access to a whole range of services and career support.”   

The new Special Application Process (SAP) offers individuals a simplified route removing the need to submit a professional review report. In many instances, it will also remove the need for a professional review interview. The SAP will be available for all applicants for EngTech, IEng and CEng.  

IMechE and REME will be offering a full support package, dedicated on-site workshops and one-to-one support.  

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• For more information on this release please contact the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Press Office on 020 7304 6888 or email media@imeche.org.uk. Alternatively anyone interested in more information on the scheme the Membership department of IMechE on 0845 226 91917, email membership@imeche.org.
• The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) was established in 1847 and has some of the world’s greatest engineers in its history books. It currently has around 80,000 members in 120 countries representing mechanical engineers involved in a diversity of fields such as the automotive, rail, aerospace, medical, power and construction industries to name a few.

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