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Professional Recognition without a Degree – Callum’s Route to IEng with the PWI

Name: Callum Sanderson

Role: Principal Track Design Engineer

Company: Mott MacDonald

Level of Professional Registration: IEng

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Callum Sanderson, Cal to most people. I am a Principal Track Design Engineer with 16 years of experience, joining the industry following college in 2008. I initially started as a surveyor, mainly covering S&C renewals sites on LNE, before moving into a more design-focused role. I’ve gathered experience at multiple companies, working with a great host of fantastic engineers. My current work is mostly in CRE or design management roles on a variety of projects.

Why did you want to become professionally registered?
I saw Professional Registration as a great way to solidify and recognise my experiences. When I first started in the industry, Professional Registration for Track Engineers was a foreign concept but it has become increasingly more vital in recent years. I hope to use my experiences in the process of Professional Registration to help others on their own journey with the PWI.

How did you find the process?
I found the process really good and clear to follow. The pathways through the PWI are varied and really helped me to find my route to IEng having not completed a degree. I found producing my report offered me the very rare chance for a bit of introspection and a chance to reflect on some great experiences in a short career so far. I had a sponsor who really supported my journey and provided fantastic guidance and feedback (shout out to Rob Brotherton!)

How do you consider being recognised with IEng stats as helping you in your career?
Having IEng gives me a recognition within the industry which is universal. We often rely on word of mouth or reputation as a method of recognition (still vital components) but Professional Registration cuts through that as proof of your standing. IEng will provide a level of assurance to employers and clients for any future roles within the industry and will serve as a great step on my journey to Chartership (hopefully!)

Thank you, Callum, for sharing your journey and choosing to pursue Professional Registration with the PWI.

If you’re interested in achieving IEng and taking the next step in your engineering career, click here to learn more about how we can support you.