Chair's welcome: Young Members

Lydia Amaraque, YMB Chair gives an update on some of the things that have been happening in the YM community, and things to come.

As a YM still in what I would class as the 'early stages' of my career, I have found it very easy to brush off my opinions or my influence in both work and voluntary positions. I'm sure I'm not the only one to admit that when I started work, all I wanted to do was to get my head down and show that I am capable for the tasks I've been given and more. I've tried to gather enough experience to move to the next stage of my career. When you think like that, it's quite easy to not think about anything else, about ways to give up your time to volunteer or to explore what happens outside your little bubble.

Fortunately for me, I'm also a seeker of value for money, so I always wanted to know what I was getting for my membership with the IMechE. From being involved with the Institution, I have got a lot more than I ever expected. I have been able to hold positions within the Institution that I would not have experienced yet at work, I've built up confidence speaking to people from all walks of life, and learnt that people actually want to hear what I think!

Things are evolving within the engineering world, and it will affect us all. I would encourage you to get involved in the conversation and make sure your Institution isn't left behind!

Lydia Amarquaye