The Chamber of Engineers successfully organised its highly anticipated 32nd Annual Engineering Conference on 27 May at the Hilton St Julian's. This year's conference centred on the impactful theme of aerospace and was titled "Engineering the Skies | Breaking New Ground in Aerospace Innovation". The conference served to highlight the pivotal role of engineering within the aerospace sector as reflected by its growing economic impact on the Maltese Islands.
Recognizing aerospace as an emerging and strategic sector in Malta, the event attracted a diverse audience comprising policymakers, industry operators, Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) providers, educators, and other key stakeholders. The conference offered a comprehensive programme that spanned both aviation and space industries, reinforcing Malta's commitment to advancing innovation in these fields.
The conference was officially opened by the President of the Chamber of Engineers, Dr Inġ. Bonnie Attard, followed by addresses from the Honourable Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works; Dr Chris Bonett, and the Opposition Spokesperson for Infrastructure, Manufacturing, and Capital Projects, Dr Joe Giglio. Several Members of Parliament from the engineering profession also attended; including Inġ. Ryan Callus, Inġ. Rebekah Borg, Inġ. Stanley Zammit and Inġ. Marc Anthony Sammut underscoring the importance of the aerospace sector within national development priorities.
In her opening address, the President of the Chamber, Dr. Inġ. Bonnie Attard, remarked that the 32nd Annual Engineering Conference celebrated the vital role of engineering in advancing aerospace innovation, honouring humanity's enduring dream of flight and the expansion of horizons into space exploration. She emphasized the importance of collaboration across disciplines and highlighted Malta's potential to excel in aerospace through innovation and investment. The aerospace sector is a crucial area for local engineering professionals to aid in the growth of the country. Dr Inġ. Attard also encouraged active participation and partnership amongst disciplines to foster future growth, resilience, and technological breakthroughs in both aeronautics and astronautics.
The programme featured 26 distinguished speakers from both local and international backgrounds and included a keynote session and an invited talk together with seven presentations, and three engaging panel discussions featuring engineers and other professionals within the aerospace field. This year's iteration featured an international speaker from Boeing; Ms. Marianne Berg showcasing Boeing's Sustainability Programme and Mr David Polidano from the Malta Aviation Museum Foundation showcasing the restoration challenges of the historic Sea Gladiator 'Charity'; a significant symbol of Malta's aeronautical heritage.
