Employer Partners hear directly from the next generation of chemical engineers
16th July 2026
What do future chemical engineers need from employers, universities and the profession?
At the June 2026 IChemE Employer Partner Networking Lunch, students, graduates, researchers and employers came together to explore the opportunities and challenges facing the next generation of engineers. Discussions focused on how the profession can better support individuals as they enter, establish themselves in and develop their careers.
Hearing directly from students, a recent graduate and a PhD researcher provided valuable insights into the experiences shaping early careers today. Conversations highlighted the importance of industrial placements, stronger collaboration between academia and industry, and the need to develop professional skills alongside technical expertise. Participants also explored how changing career pathways, recruitment practices and emerging technologies are influencing the future workforce.
The discussions will help inform future Employer Partner activity and ongoing work to strengthen talent pipelines across the profession.
Read the full report to discover the key themes, insights and next steps identified by attendees.