"Engineers must learn how to win over their target audience and convince them in the long term. We have to convince our customers "WHY?" our solutions are needed. We too often get lost in explanations "HOW?" our solution works." (Image above: Rico Breu)

The answers from Rico Breu, Vice President Engineer - Surveyor Switzerland IGS:

When and in what context did you first hear about Engineers' Day (then Engineers' Day)?

2022 in a dialogue with Daniel Löhr.

Your association is participating in Engineers' Day for the 1st time. Why are you involved in this cause?

Engineers in Switzerland do excellent work. It's just that too little is reported about it. Our work is more valuable than being noticed and needs more publicity. Swiss engineers should spend more time informing society about their work. This is the only way to arouse interest among our young people.

What goal or goals would you highlight as the most important priority in terms of your involvement in Engineers' Day or in everyday life?

For me, promoting young talent is one of the most important goals. This is better achieved if we simultaneously make our outstanding achievements more visible.

Why do you think engineers and their achievements are not perceived enough in everyday life and what can engineers do about it?  

Engineer: Inside, we have to learn how to win over our target audience and convince them in the long term. We have to convince our customers "WHY?" it needs our solutions. We too often get lost in explaining "HOW?" our solution works.

If you had one wish to be able to influence the promotion of young talent even more, who would it be and what would it be?

The public administration organizations at the federal, cantonal and communal level are increasingly seeking advice from lawyers and financial experts. For this reason, the renewed public procurement law has still not implemented the paradigm shift in the awarding of contracts. The associations need to do more convincing and strongly oppose "cheap awards".

Do you have another wish in connection with Engineers' Day?

No - I am looking forward today to my first participation next year.

Thank you very much for this interview.

Further information on Engineering Surveyors Switzerland: www.igs-ch.ch