We were delighted to welcome the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Sussex Network back to campus this week for one of their regular technical talks.
This session, ‘How Innovation Transforms Engineering Challenges into Opportunities’, was delivered by Ian Lee, Innovation Project Lead at UK Power Networks. Ian explored how innovation is reshaping the way engineers think and work, particularly in the energy sector, where rapid change is the new normal.
He set out some of the biggest pressures facing today’s infrastructure: the sharp rise in demand from electric vehicles, the strain on data networks, the shift towards decentralised energy generation and the pressing need to build resilience into critical systems. Against this backdrop, innovation is not just welcome — it is essential.
Technology at the forefront
Ian showed how smart grids are helping balance supply and demand, how digital twins allow real-time testing and modelling of complex systems, and how emerging tools such as blockchain and AI are being explored to secure and optimise energy networks. These technologies are not abstract concepts but are being developed and deployed today, changing how engineers design, manage and future-proof the systems we all rely on.
The data challenge
In the Q&A, we asked Ian what advice he would give to engineering students preparing for careers in this fast-changing landscape. His response was direct: ‘Know your way around data.’
He explained that while a solid grasp of hardware and systems remains vital, the defining skill for tomorrow’s engineers will be the ability to collect, question and apply data effectively. With connected technologies multiplying across every sector, the capacity to interpret information in real time and turn it into solutions is becoming central to the profession.
Engineers who can combine technical know-how with strong data skills will be far better placed to lead change, solve complex problems and deliver practical results. For students at the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology, this message could not be more relevant. Data literacy is no longer optional — it is fast becoming a core requirement across engineering, digital and construction careers.
Linking to the IoT vision
The themes of Ian’s talk connect directly to the mission of the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology. Our new IoT building at Crawley College, opening in Autumn 2025, will provide students and employers with the facilities to explore advanced technologies, collaborate on innovation projects and develop the skills needed in this new era of engineering. This is a major milestone in technology-focused education in our region. We look forward to welcoming IET members for a tour of the new building.
Partnerships with organisations such as the IET play an important role in bringing industry expertise onto campus and giving students the chance to learn first-hand from professionals working at the cutting edge of change. Supporting and mentoring the next generation is central to both the IET and the IoT, and we are looking forward to developing new ways to involve our students in future activities and collaborations.
Looking ahead
We thank Ian and the IET Sussex Network for another brilliant and inspiring session. Events like these underline the pace at which engineering is evolving, and the exciting opportunities available to those who are prepared to embrace innovation and data-driven thinking.
Interested in holding your own events in the new IoT building at Crawley College? Get in touch, email: tchesterwilliams@crawley.ac.uk