Hamilton Architects chartered architectural technologist Jill Alexander was delighted to represent Northern Ireland at the recent AGM of the CIAT in Glasgow.
A large gathering of technologists from every region of the UK, ROI and farther afield, met to discuss business resolutions for 2020 and to enjoy some networking.
“It was an extra special occasion for the Northern Ireland contingent because Eddie Weir, an architectural technologist from Holywood, was instituted as our new President,” said Jill.
Apart from debating resolutions for the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists for the next year, members also attended a ceilidh and a glittering President’s Ball.
Jill is one of only two women on the Northern Ireland Regional Committee Panel. Traditionally, the profession has mainly attracted male practitioners, but there are more and more young women entering the sector.
“It was great to see how many women were actually in attendance,” said Jill. “I would encourage more ladies to join CIAT, as it is not just a great forum for networking and learning, it is also good fun!
“My fellow NI committee members and I will be organising some enjoyable networking events for local members in 2020, so to find out more just watch this space!”
Receiving the Chain of Office, Eddie spoke of a busy two-year agenda ahead taking on very real challenges while working to the Institute’s Strategic and Corporate Plans.
Some of these challenges affect the discipline, some the industry and others society in the UK and globally – for example, the climate emergency, the Building a Safer Future programme of action, and the Building Safety Bill as it goes through Parliament.
There is also work being done within the Institute’s equality and diversity profile to ensure all the CIAT family feel valued, included and respected. He is also keen to promote members’ expertise to the public, encourage member engagement within the Regional/Centre Committees and aspirATion Groups, and ensure strategies are in place to support members through Brexit.
Speaking of his appointment, Eddie said “I feel hugely honoured and privileged to be serving my Institute as President. We have so much to look forward to as a profession and I can’t wait to continue playing a role in promoting it.”