The World Federation of Engineering Organizations announced the official launch of World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development in 2026.
Established by UNESCO in 2019, this day highlights engineering’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It recognizes engineers who design sustainable cities, advance clean energy, strengthen digital infrastructure, and address complex global challenges.
Engineers worldwide are improving quality of life and building long-term resilience through innovative solutions in areas such as climate action and emerging technologies.
The 2026 theme, “SMART Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalization,” underscores the profession’s commitment to transformative solutions.
This year’s celebrations, led by the World Federation of Engineering Organizations, unite engineers, policymakers, innovators, educators, and students in reaffirming their dedication to sustainability through science, technology, and collaboration.
The official event in Jakarta highlights the profession’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals and showcases achievements in clean energy, resilient infrastructure, digital transformation, and water security.
UNESCO marked the occasion by celebrating engineering achievements from ancient water systems to artificial intelligence.
The World Economic Forum notes that engineering has always driven human progress and remains vital for building sustainable, resilient societies. The event featured global engineering stories, insights, and innovations, as well as contributions from companies supporting sustainable development.
The engineering field is expanding, with women playing an increasingly significant role. In the United States, leaders such as Sarah EchoHawk (AISES), Tsu-Jae Liu (National Academy of Engineering), Mary Ellen Randall (IEEE), Jill I. Gostin (IEEE), Anne O'Neal (AIChE), Suzanna Valdez Wolfe (SHPE), Chika Okwor and Janeen Uzzell (NSBE), and academic deans Joyce T. Shirazi, Pamela Holland Obiomon, Stephanie Luster-Teasley, and Pamela McCauley are advancing diversity and inclusion.
According to UNESCO, women now represent about 28 percent of the global engineering workforce, with participation rising in many regions.
In several countries, women comprise more than one-third of engineering graduates, strengthening the profession’s talent pipeline. This growth brings broader perspectives, enhances collaboration, and supports user-centered design across sectors. Research shows that gender-diverse teams achieve stronger financial performance and greater innovation, leading to more resilient solutions and better outcomes for communities. As more women enter and lead in engineering, the profession becomes more dynamic, inclusive, and better equipped to address global challenges.