Institution news
Rob’s association with IMechE spanned more than five decades. He joined the Institution as a Student Member in December 1971, at a time when he was employed by Bailey Meters and Controls Ltd as a Student Apprentice, having achieved a distinction in Applied Mechanics at Croydon College earlier that year. He became an Associate Member in 1978, a Member in 1982, and was elected a Fellow of the Institution in October 1989.
Rob enjoyed a long and distinguished engineering career, working with organisations including Babcock, Rolls-Royce, and BOC / Linde. Alongside his professional career, he gave exceptional service to the Institution, contributing his time, expertise and judgement to a wide range of committees and boards. These included the Investigating Panel, Disciplinary Board, Ethics Committee, Qualifications and Membership Board (which he chaired), the Trustee Board Awards Committee, and Council. He also served as Vice Chair of the IMechE North Eastern Branch.
In 2016, Rob was appointed a Board Member of the Engineering Council, further reflecting the esteem in which he was held across the engineering profession. In May 2017, he assumed the role of Chair of the IMechE Regional Strategy Board, where he played a key role in shaping regional engagement and strengthening connections between the Institution and its members.
Rob was elected Vice President of the IMechE Trustee Board in June 2017, serving until his resignation in July 2018. Throughout his governance roles, he was known for his integrity, depth of experience, and strong commitment to upholding professional standards.
Geoff Baker, MSc CEng FIMechE FIET FRSA Chair, Former President of the Institution, said:
"‘On behalf of everyone who had the honour and privilege of working with Rob at IMechE and the Engineering Council, of which there are many, he worked with the upmost integrity, commitment, and passion to help engineers and the engineering profession. Rob will be missed as a great friend and colleague, and our thoughts go out to Rob’s wife Alison and all of his family at this sad time.”
Rob’s long-standing dedication to engineering and to the Institution leaves a lasting legacy. He will be remembered with great respect and gratitude by colleagues, volunteers and members across IMechE.