Promoting young talent requires perseverance, and many players do not have this understanding; they want immediate results. We have to work on this in the long term.

Answers from Lea Hasler about Engineers' Day.

When and in what context did you first hear about Engineers' Day? 
Already at the first event, I noticed how committed Daniel Löhr is to the engineers. 

This is the second time that your association has participated in Engineers' Day. Why are you involved in this event?
We support the joint commitment of various players for more appreciation of engineers and more young talent. 

What goal or goals would you highlight as the most important priority in terms of your involvement in Engineers' Day or in everyday life?
IngCH Engineers Shape our Future has been working for more young people in engineering for 35 years and would also like to encourage young women in particular to choose a career in STEM fields. Therefore, for us, the goal of promoting the next generation of engineers is also the reason to be involved with girls. However, the other goals of making excellence visible, communication among engineers and non-engineers, and the importance of engineering in achieving UNESCO's 17 Sustainable Development Goals are also very relevant, because only those who understand who works in engineering and the contribution made by female and male engineers will consider this choice of study. 

Why do you think engineers and their achievements are not perceived enough in everyday life and what can engineers do about it?  
I think engineers are all about the cause. Their motivation and challenge is to find the best possible solutions and not to engage in marketing or image cultivation. Personally, I think that's very likeable and good, but unfortunately the achievements tend to remain in the background. 

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?
My wish would go to the business community: less complaining and more commitment. Promoting young talent requires perseverance, and many companies do not have this understanding; they want immediate results. Some of our member companies have been committed for decades: for our location in Switzerland and for more STEM specialists in the long term. This is not a matter of course, but it is exactly how we make a difference! 

Do you have another wish in connection with Engineers' Day?
I would like to see further expansion into all sectors, as Engineers' Day still has potential there. Otherwise, keep up the good work and thank you very much for the initiative!

Further information: ingch.ch