New engineering president outlines SOE community vision08 July 2011

Garry Gilby became president of the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) yesterday (7 July 2011) during the organisation's AGM in Westminster.

Succeeding fleet engineer Chris Grime, Gilby described his intention to lead SOE into "a new dawn of community liaison, professional recognition and education", while also improving SOE member services.

During his presidential address, Londoner Gilby outlined his vision for the society, which represents some 15,000 engineering professionals and organisations in the road transport, plant and engineer surveying industries and incorporates the professional engineering sectors, IRTE, IPlantE and BES.

"I want to ensure all our work contributes to the community, and that we are able to demonstrate and promote the work of members, both nationally and internationally," said Gilby.

"I want everyone to know who the SOE are, and what we do. Maintaining our independence and the promotion of our members and engineering competence are the keys to shared success."

Gilby began his career in the transport industry in 1979, as an apprentice with London Transport (buses). Following 12 years in the sector, Gilby moved to the Underground, where he worked for over 20 years.

Saluting his predecessor, Gilby thanked Chris Grime for his dedicated service, highlighting Grime's "two remarkable years" as president.

He also alluded SOE's recent successes, under Grime's watch – citing its award-winning website, continued success in registering members with the Engineering Council, growth of the irtec technician licensing scheme, and the recent IRTE Skills Challenge.

"We cannot help but be extremely proud of our members. By knowing our members, by working for them and celebrating them, SOE will build a reputation that is noticed by others, and one that others will want to be a part of," said Gilby.

Brian Tinham

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