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That was on full display at the 2026 Global Speak Out for Engineering (SOfE) Final, where talented early-career engineers from around the world competed to communicate innovative engineering ideas to an international audience.
Held as part of the International Strategy Board (ISB) meeting in Istanbul, the competition showcased presentations on topics ranging from sustainable construction to the future of food production. The event highlighted the growing importance of communication skills in engineering, as organisations increasingly look for professionals who can influence decisions, engage the public and inspire future talent.
Celebrating global engineering talent
This year’s winner was Alice Millbank, representing the UK and Ireland, for her presentation: Edible microcarriers for lab-grown meat.
Alice impressed judges with her clear and engaging explanation of how engineering innovation could help support more sustainable food systems in the future.
Runner-up Alfred Juliant Susanto, representing South East Asia, was recognised for his presentation: Green asphalt: sustainable road construction using plastic waste.
Both finalists demonstrated not only strong technical understanding, but also the ability to communicate complex engineering concepts in an accessible and compelling way.
Why communication matters in engineering
Engineering solutions only make an impact if people understand them.
Competitions like SOfE help engineers develop the confidence and communication skills needed to influence industry, policymakers and the public. From net zero and infrastructure to emerging technologies and sustainability, engineers are increasingly expected to explain technical challenges in ways that drive action and collaboration.
The Global Final brought together finalists from six regions, reflecting the Institution’s international reach and the breadth of engineering innovation happening around the world.
A highlight of the International Strategy Board meeting
The Global Final formed part of the International Strategy Board’s hybrid meeting in Istanbul from 24 to 27 April 2026.
The meeting brought together members both in person and online to discuss international priorities, strengthen collaboration between regions and review progress against the Institution’s global strategy.
Alongside strategic discussions, the SOfE Final provided an opportunity to celebrate the talent, creativity and ambition of emerging engineers across the international community.
More than six decades of engineering communication
First launched in 1964, Speak Out for Engineering is the Institution’s longest-running competition and one of its most respected international platforms for early-career engineers.
Now in its 62nd year, the competition continues to challenge participants to communicate technical subjects with precision, clarity and confidence.
Over the decades, SOfE has helped thousands of engineers strengthen their presentation skills, raise their professional profile and connect with peers around the world.
Last year’s competition also showcased exceptional engineering communication talent, with finalists presenting ideas tackling real-world engineering challenges.
Could you be the next finalist?
Are you an early-career engineer with an idea worth sharing?
Speak Out for Engineering offers the chance to sharpen your presentation skills, build confidence and showcase your work on an international stage alongside some of the brightest young engineers in the profession.
Find out more about the competition, how to get involved and read about last year’s winner.