Bringing together representatives from across divisions, regions, and operating boards, the weekend combined strategic planning, networking, and forward-thinking discussion for 2026 and beyond.
The YMB has set clear priorities that will influence events, volunteering opportunities, and member support. For members, this means more targeted activity, stronger representation, and clearer pathways to get involved.
A focused strategy weekend
Held from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March, the weekend brought together Young Members with hands-on volunteering experience. Attendees included Division & Group representatives, UK regional representatives, the YMB Executive Committee, and contributors from across the Institution’s main boards.
The event also welcomed an international perspective, with Ken Chan from the International Young Members Committee travelling from Hong Kong to attend.
Plenary sessions were led by the executive team, chaired by Nicky Valentine, with contributions from Chief Executive Jo Passingham, Deputy Presidents Richard Judge and David Nowell, and representatives from the Regional and Technical Strategy Boards.
Friday – engineering insights and networking
The weekend began with an exclusive visit to the University of Cambridge Engineering Department. Delegates toured facilities and met students working on their Formula Student racing car, offering a glimpse into current research and innovation.
The evening continued with a networking event at the historic Eagle Pub, attended by around 50 delegates. Bringing together students, academics, regional members, volunteers, and IMechE staff, the event created a relaxed environment for open conversation across all levels of the Institution.
From ideas to action
Saturday and Sunday focused on structured strategy sessions, including breakout discussions, presentations, and interactive workshops.
A key theme was turning member insight into practical activity. The “Passion to Action” session generated new ideas for events, initiatives, and engagement opportunities for young engineers.
The group also reviewed 2025 achievements, celebrating progress across YMB-led initiatives and building on that momentum for the year ahead.
Strengthening the membership journey
A dedicated session explored the membership progression pathway, from Affiliate through to Fellow. Discussions highlighted challenges faced by early career engineers, including unclear communication, perceived barriers, and gaps in support.
These insights will help shape clearer guidance and improved support for members progressing through their professional journey.
Supporting volunteers and collaboration
The weekend placed strong emphasis on enhancing the volunteer experience. Discussions explored how to improve onboarding, recognition, and ongoing support for volunteers delivering activity locally.
There was also a focus on strengthening collaboration between the YMB and other Institution boards, ensuring better alignment and more coordinated delivery across regions and technical communities.
Looking ahead: skills, students and events
Several forward-looking topics were explored, including:
- Updates to industry skills profiles and contributions to UK-SPEC
- The future of the Essential Management Skills (EMS) Conference, with new ideas to boost engagement
- Progress on the UK Student Chapters pilot, with plans to expand and strengthen university involvement
Connecting with academia and peers
Alongside strategic discussions, the weekend provided valuable opportunities to connect with academia and future engineers. Engagement with students and faculty in Cambridge helped strengthen links between the Institution and universities.
Special recognition
A special recognition certificate was presented to Jack Mason for his outstanding contributions during 2025. He was commended for the successful relaunch of the Great Event Ideas Guide and his ongoing support for Young Member initiatives.
A year shaped by members
The strategy weekend set a clear direction for the year ahead. It aligned motivated volunteers around shared goals and practical delivery, with strong enthusiasm and energy from all attendees.
Members can expect to see the impact through more relevant events, stronger networks, and clearer ways to get involved, ensuring that YMB activity continues to be shaped by members, for members.