Events by Institution of Engineering and Technology

The transportation sector is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. To meet the ambitious 2050 targets, Cardiff must lead the way in transit innovation. The IET invites you to an evening of networking and presentations focused on the electrification of public and private transport. From the South Wales Metro project to the rollout of electric bus fleets, we will cover the engineering triumphs and the logistical nightmares of moving a city away from fossil fuels. The evening starts with a presentation from the lead engineers on the South Wales Metro project, discussing the challenges of electrifying century-old rail lines and integrating them with modern battery-powered tram-trains. We will then shift focus to the "last mile" problem—how can micro-mobility solutions like e-scooters and e-bikes be safely integrated into Cardiff’s busy streets? A major theme of the night is the infrastructure requirement for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). While passenger cars are easily electrified, the weight and range requirements of long-haul trucking present a different set of engineering hurdles. We will explore the potential of overhead electric lines on motorways and the role of high-power charging hubs. This is an informal yet highly informative event, designed to spark conversation between different sectors of the transport industry. It is a fantastic opportunity for students and early-career engineers to meet industry veterans and discuss the future of mobility in Wales. The event includes a catered buffet, allowing for extended networking following the formal presentations.

As the world becomes increasingly digitized, the threat to our critical national infrastructure (CNI) has never been higher. The IET Cardiff chapter is organizing this high-level conference to address the vulnerabilities in our water, transport, and communication systems. This event brings together cybersecurity professionals, government officials, and engineering leads to discuss the evolving threat landscape, from state-sponsored actors to ransomware syndicates. The keynote speech will focus on the convergence of Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT). Historically, these systems were siloed, but the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has created new entry points for attackers. We will examine the latest defense-in-depth strategies, including zero-trust architecture and network segmentation specifically tailored for industrial environments. During the mid-day session, we will hold a simulated "war game" exercise. Participants will be divided into "Red" and "Blue" teams to respond to a simulated cyber-attack on a regional water treatment facility. This hands-on approach allows attendees to understand the pressure of incident response and the importance of clear communication protocols between engineering and IT teams. We will also discuss the legal ramifications of data breaches and the role of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in supporting private sector firms. The day will wrap up with a networking drinks reception, providing a secure environment to share experiences and best practices with peers who face similar challenges in protecting the nation's most vital services.

Manufacturing Managers, Robotics Engineers, Software Developers, Systems Integrators, Quality Assurance Specialists

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) presents a comprehensive session on the modernization of the Welsh power grid. As we move toward a net-zero future, the infrastructure supporting our electricity must undergo a radical transformation. This event explores the integration of renewable energy sources, such as offshore wind and solar, into the existing local distribution networks. Participants will engage with expert speakers who are currently leading high-stakes projects in grid stability and energy storage. The session begins with a technical overview of the current state of the National Grid in Wales, followed by deep dives into the Internet of Things (IoT) applications within substation management. We will discuss the deployment of smart meters and how big data analytics can predict peak loads to prevent outages. A significant portion of the afternoon is dedicated to the role of hydrogen as a balancing agent for the grid. This is not just a theoretical discussion; it is a practical roadmap for engineers to understand the regulatory and technical hurdles of the next decade. Furthermore, the event addresses the "Electric Vehicle (EV) Revolution" and its impact on urban grid planning in Cardiff. As domestic demand increases, how do we ensure the local transformers don't blow? We will look at bi-directional charging (V2G) and smart charging algorithms that incentivize off-peak usage. The day concludes with a panel discussion on the skills gap in the power sector, highlighting how the IET is supporting the next generation of power engineers through accreditation and professional development. This is a vital gathering for anyone involved in the lifecycle of energy—from generation to the final consumer.

The IET South Wales Engineering Excellence Summit is a premier gathering of the region’s most influential engineers, researchers, and technology leaders. Hosted at the historic Parkgate Hotel in the heart of Cardiff, this event serves as a critical nexus for discussing the future of engineering in Wales and beyond. The summit focuses on the convergence of traditional engineering disciplines with emerging digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, sustainable energy systems, and high-tech manufacturing. Attendees will engage in a series of high-level plenary sessions, technical workshops, and interactive panel discussions designed to tackle the industry’s most pressing challenges—from the race to Net Zero to the ethical implementation of autonomous systems. As part of the IET’s commitment to fostering the next generation of talent, the event also features a dedicated "Early Careers" track. This segment allows young engineers and students to showcase their research, network with industry veterans, and gain insights into the evolving landscape of professional registration and career development. With Cardiff’s growing reputation as a hub for semiconductor technology and renewable energy innovation, the summit provides an unparalleled platform for knowledge exchange and professional growth within the UK's engineering ecosystem.