Day of the Engineer 2027: Engineering towards 2047

In 2027, KIVI will celebrate its 180th anniversary. Day of the Engineer marks the start of a special anniversary year packed with events. The day will feature an inspiring programme entitled ‘Engineering towards 2047’. The overarching theme links the historical role of KIVI and engineers in the development of the Netherlands since 1847 with the challenges and opportunities looking ahead to 2047, the year in which KIVI will celebrate its 200th anniversary.

The programme will explore the past, present and future of engineering. The focus is on the changing role of the engineer. After all, engineering is not just about developing new technology and technical solutions, but also about the way in which we shape our society. Drawing on their knowledge and expertise, engineers can play a greater role in public debate and in political, economic and social decision-making.

The major issues of our time can increasingly rarely be resolved by a single discipline alone. Challenges in areas such as safety, energy, digitalisation and economic resilience call for multidisciplinary collaboration, linking technical knowledge with social, economic and political insights. It is precisely here that engineers can make a significant contribution to better and future-proof decision-making.

As we look towards 2047, the challenges we face are becoming increasingly complex and intertwined. Sustainable and future-proof solutions therefore require collaboration between engineering, science, the business community, government and society. Engineers can play a key connecting role in this and, with their knowledge, contribute to better-informed long-term decisions.

Day of the Engineer aims to inspire engineers to embrace this broader role and look beyond their own technical discipline. The programme will cover various sub-themes, including security and strategic autonomy, investing in the future, policy and politics, and the impact of AI on the engineering profession.

Date: Wednesday 10 March 2027
Venue: Eindhoven University of Technology

Registration will open at a later date. Would you like to be the first to know? Sign up for pre-registration and receive a one-off email when registration opens.

Following the programme, the presentation of the Prince Friso Engineering Award will take place.