RAE unveils Seven Wonders of the engineering world to spur recruits

The Royal Academy of Engineering compiled the list in an effort to overcome young people’s lack of awareness about the profession.

Broadcaster, writer and RAE fellow, professor Mark Miodownik, who is helping spearhead the RAE campaign, said: 

“Engineering plays an essential part in everyday life, from the water we drink to the gadgets we use, and it’s also vital to addressing the challenges of the future.

“However, our survey shows that many young people don’t associate engineering with the technology they use day to day, and the things they’re interested in, which could mean they miss out on the opportunities to change the world as an engineer.”

The RAE said that too many youngsters have a stereotypical idea of the profession, associating it with famous construction projects such as the Eiffel Tower and the Shard but rarely with products that impact their own lives directly.

Many young people don’t associate engineering with the things they’re interested in, which could mean they miss opportunities to change the world as an engineer

rofessor Mark Miodownik, writer, broadcaster and Fellow, RAE

Fewer than than 20% were aware that social media apps such as SnapChat and Spotify have been developed by engineers. Likewise, while two thirds of teenagers own a pair of trainers or sports shoes, only 20% were aware that they are designed by engineers.

And while more than half use Facebook and YouTube, just 16% realised these were created by engineers. 

The full list of seven wonders includes some surprising choices, namely:

• Gore-Tex Fabric
• Hawk-Eye real-time visual tracking computer system for ball sports.
• iPhone
• YouTube
• Dolby Atmos for cinema and film sound engineering.
• 3D printed bone implants
• Clean water 

Added Miodownik: “We hope our list of surprising, 21^st century engineering wonders will inspire today’s teenagers and give them new opportunities.”