Engineers Without Borders UK launches the 2025 Systems Change Lab

Running from May - November 2025, the Lab will bring together changemakers from across the engineering sector to turn ideas into tangible outcomes that redefine the role of engineering in society.

Today's global challenges - climate breakdown, social inequality, and unsustainable resource use - demand fundamental, systemic change in the way engineering is taught and practised. The Lab provides a space for key stakeholders to challenge existing norms, address barriers to change, and co-create a vision for an engineering sector rooted in global responsibility.

The 2025 Systems Change Lab builds on the success of its 2023-24 edition, delivered in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering. This initiative brought together over 200 changemakers from 25+ universities and 22 companies, generating insights and toolkits  that will shape the next phase of action.

An Open Call to Changemakers

At the launch event on 20 March in London, changemakers came together to develop task and finish groups, each dedicated to driving change in key focus areas throughout the year. The preliminary focus areas, selected by participants of the Lab, include: Education and upskilling, Roles and values of engineers, Nurturing changemakers and inclusive cultures, Policy and risk, Challenging the standards, and Communication and stories of change.

Now, the Lab is seeking professionals, educators, students, and innovators from all backgrounds who are eager to drive meaningful transformation, to join the groups and contribute to tangible outputs. Whether representing an organisation or bringing lived experience, research, or innovative ideas, participants will help shape the future of engineering.

Opportunities to contribute range from short-term engagement to leadership roles within the Lab’s activities. Participants can engage in online and in-person workshops across the UK, designed to foster collaboration and innovative thinking. The Lab offers flexible involvement, so that anyone passionate about change can contribute.

"Let’s move beyond conversation and take real steps towards reshaping engineering education and practice. Whether as an individual or an organisation, we welcome you to join the Lab. Together we can reorient the sector to meet the urgent challenges of the 21st century," said John Kraus, CEO of Engineers Without Borders UK.