Statue aims to inspire a new generation into engineering

Situated in central London, the statue of Kan has been designed by visual artist and designer Kelly Anna.

“Being honoured in statue form is a very unique experience and not something many people can say,” said Kan. “I really hope my statue encourages people to understand more about engineering, what engineers do and why it is a great career for anyone who's got a curiosity for wanting to make things work better.”

For National Engineering Day 2024, the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng) aims to inspire a new generation to see themselves reflected in engineering by honouring Kan. The Macclesfield-based engineer played a key role in the manufacture of the COVID-19 vaccine and is now working on vaccines for Ebola.

Women make up 15.7 per cent of the UK engineering workforce - down from 16.5 per cent in 2023 – and the lack of visible role models is seen as a factor in why fewer women are considering a career in engineering.

Research commissioned for National Engineering Day shows the crucial role of representation in inspiring the next generation, with 80 per cent of respondents aged 12-15 naming the importance of having a role model to look up to for personal and career goals. Despite this, 44 per cent could not remember an engineer featured in popular culture and more than half could not name a famous engineer. 

According to RAEng, engineers – especially women – are almost absent from public monuments. Historical figures such as Mary Seacole and Millicent Fawcett have been celebrated with statues in recent years, but historical engineers like Beatrice Shilling (known for her work to improve Spitfire performance) and Dame Caroline Haslett (pioneer of household electrification) still lack public recognition.

In a statement, Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, CEO of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said: "Across the UK, modern engineers - despite their remarkable contributions to our society - remain noticeably absent from public statues and monuments. Their achievements deserve to be celebrated more publicly, which is why, on National Engineering Day, we are using digital art and sculpture to bring their work - and their stories - to the wider public, and especially to those considering their future careers. We hope this will encourage more people from all backgrounds to join this creative, rewarding profession which improves lives every day."

As well as the statue, digital artwork of five engineering role models has also been created.

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