IEE + IIE = IET?

The Institutions of Electrical and Incorporated Engineers - the IEE and the IIE - are discussing the possibility of merging to form a new body which could be called the Institution of Engineering and Technology, or IET.

The talks follow the ending of three-way negotiations with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) over a proposed merger (see Drives & Controls, April 2004). During these earlier talks, the IEE and the IIE say they "developed a shared vision of engineering in the 21st century and the part that learned societies must play in realising it".

In a letter to his members, IEE president Sir David Brown (above) says that a merger would create "a vibrant Institution which will serve our existing members better, encourage new members to join, strengthen our influence with governments, and heighten society`s appreciation of engineering around the world".

Discussions have been held with the UK Minister for Science and Innovation who indicated his support for the concept and the proposed name for the combined organisation.

The IEE and IIE have also written to other UK engineering institutions inviting them to join the new body, either as founding members, or at a later stage.

Any merger would have to be approved by the members of both the IEE and the IIE.