Member Article

Building engineers lay foundations for a green future

The Northern Region of a professional body for building engineers is celebrating its 25thconsecutive year hosting a major trade exhibition and seminar and is looking to the future by highlighting the use of environmentally friendly initiatives within the construction industry.

The Association of Building Engineers, (ABE) aims to develop its members, act as a respected voice for the industry to influence policy, set technical and ethical standards and enhance the reputation and understanding of the building engineering profession. In the North East, the association is growing from strength to strength with members representing many aspects of the building and construction industry.

The free, 25thAnniversary event, at the Lancastrian Suite, Dunston on Thursday 14thJune will be an opportunity for manufacturers, suppliers and industry expects to share ideas, make new contacts and share best practice. Companies exhibiting this year include Chirmarn Ltd, Warren Access and Park Electrical, with annual sponsorship for the event provided by main sponsor J. T. Duffy Roofing Ltd. The Worshipful Mayor of Gateshead will open the event which will attract more than 30 exhibitors and hundreds of visitors throughout the day.

Honorary Secretary and Past President of the former Institute of Maintenance and Building Management, George Armstrong from North Shields started his career as an electrician in the private sector before working his way through the ranks to the position of Building Revenue Manager in Local Government prior to retirement. George believes strongly that the building profession should look to the future and set a good example as far as environmental issues are concerned so that future generations can benefit from their foresight. With this in mind, the seminar will focus on sustainability, highlighting innovations within the building industry, the use of reusable products and how environmental issues are addressed in the treatment of older dwellings and hard to heat homes.

Like all professional bodies, ABE has an obligation to encourage their members to act in a responsible way towards the environment. In addition to talks and stands dedicated to addressing green issues, the event will see the Benfield Motor Group providing a display of vehicles to demonstrate the technical advancements in environmentally friendly vehicles including those powered by electricity.

Outgoing ABE National President, Colin Bell, MD of Cramlington based Chartered Surveyors, Paramount Associates Ltd is also looking forward to the seminar.

I’ve had a great year in office representing ABE on a national level and I’ve really enjoyed meeting so many people within the industry, we have a really friendly organisation and it makes a huge difference being able to get together with fellow professionals to discuss important issues relating to our work, “he said” I’ve been honoured to attend a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace representing ABE to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee recently so it is also fitting that we are celebrating the Silver Jubilee of our annual exhibition and seminar. I see no reason why we won’t be celebrating our 50th too.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Keith Newman .