News from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Why mastering AI is crucial for the engineers of tomorrow

As the world becomes increasingly driven by technology, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of engineering cannot be overstated. Engineers stand to benefit greatly from mastering AI skills. However, there can be some doubt around how it can exactly be integrated to the day-to-day workflows of engineers.

AI has the potential to revolutionise mechanical engineering by enhancing productivity, efficiency and innovation. Its applications are diverse, ranging from design optimisation and predictive maintenance to autonomous systems and robotics.

Why engineers can unlock economic potential

To effectively build AI models and systems, engineers need a range of skills and knowledge, including digital skills, maths and domain/business expertise. Traditional research in any field applies techniques from mathematics and statistics to a certain domain or problem. Machine learning in its simplest form is statistical and numerical problems solved iteratively with computational mathematics. Software engineering is about solving a domain or business problem with the help of computers and custom developed tools. However, by combining these skills, engineers can work with data in ways that have given rise to the field of data science – which also includes AI model development. Data science is a multidisciplinary field that involves extracting insights and knowledge from data using various techniques and methodologies. It combines elements of mathematics, statistics, computer science and domain expertise to analyse and interpret large and complex datasets.

The engineers of tomorrow are also data scientists

Engineers of tomorrow can also be data scientists without having to leave the engineering field behind. Most engineering problems involve working with data in spreadsheet tools like Excel. This often involves running mathematical calculations on this data, such that certain values are calculated for solving design, maintenance, or operational problems. What sets engineers with data science skills apart is their deep domain expertise and strong mathematical background. This gives them an advantage, allowing them to create AI tools that don't exist yet or work with engineering datasets that data scientists from another field may not be able to use. However, to unlock this potential, engineers need to learn new skills and work with more tools.

The need for digital skills and programming knowledge

While engineers can certainly use tools like Excel for various tasks, it is not the most suitable tool for building complex AI models. Excel has limited computational and data processing power and does not provide any tools for building AI models. In these cases, programming languages like Python are necessary for engineers to handle complex or large datasets. The main point to takeaway is engineers need a diverse skill set that includes digital proficiency, mathematical aptitude, and domain expertise. By combining these skills, engineers can delve into the field of Data Science, extracting valuable insights from complex datasets. By embracing AI and honing their digital and programming skills, engineers can position themselves at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of their field. The engineers of tomorrow have a unique opportunity to leverage the power of AI, driving advancements and making a significant impact in the increasingly technology-driven world.

Ali Parandeh CEng IMechE Trainer www.imeche.org

The National Adaptation Programme (NAP3) has been launched.

Dr Laura Kent, Public Affairs and Policy Advisor at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers said: "The National Adaptation Programme (NAP3) published today is a step in the right direction amidst the alarming increase in temperatures and other extreme weather events both nationally and worldwide. The urgency to adapt has never been more evident. We are pleased with the establishment of a new coordinating body within the Cabinet Office and the collaborative efforts with the Met Office to enhance accessibility to climate data. This is a vital move to effectively plan and retrofit our building stock as well as a wide range of vital infrastructure assets, to ensure their resilience to future higher temperatures and increasingly frequent, prolonged and severe heatwaves. The time for action is now, and we must swiftly implement comprehensive strategies across a wide range of sectors to safeguard lives, livelihoods and productivity."

Commenting on publication of NAP3, IMechE Fellow Dr Tim Fox, Chair of the Climate Change Adaptation Working Group said: “The Institution of Mechanical Engineers and wider engineering profession are focused on helping government, academia, industry and civil society develop solutions to the challenges of adapting to climate change. The record-breaking temperatures being experienced in many parts of the world at the moment put a sharp focus on the urgent need to deliver these solutions. We stand ready to work with the new cross-government Climate Resilience Board to help support the continued health, comfort, safety, food and nutritional security, productivity and economic well-being of the nation.”

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