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The IEEE Student Branch at Queen Mary University of London recently hosted a successful workshop exploring career opportunities in automation, bringing together students and industry experts to discuss how emerging technologies are reshaping industries and creating new professional pathways for future engineers.

The event featured presentations from leading professionals across technology, transport, and financial services, offering students valuable insights into the growing role of automation and its real-world applications.

Dr Jason Shepherd from Fujitsu presented on Digitally Enabling Safe Automation, highlighting how digital technologies can support the design, deployment, and governance of automated systems. His talk explored the use of digital simulations, digital twins, and digital auditing approaches to improve safety, accountability, and decision-making throughout the automation lifecycle.

Rachel Coe from Arup discussed the transformative impact of automation on the transport sector and its contribution to sustainability goals. She examined applications ranging from public transport and highway operations to autonomous vehicles, emphasising how automation can help create more integrated, efficient, and environmentally sustainable transportation systems.

Dr Yasmin Fathy from Accenture focused on the growing influence of automation within financial technology, including banking and insurance. In addition to discussing technical developments, she shared career insights with students, stressing the value of transferable skills, continuous learning, and professional authenticity in an evolving technological landscape.

A common theme emerging from the workshop was that automation extends far beyond the replacement of manual processes. Instead, it provides opportunities to develop safer systems, enable more informed decision-making, and unlock innovation across a wide range of sectors.

The event was organised by the IEEE Student Branch leadership team, including Kaiwei Wang, Tingting Yang, and Hongsen Cao, with support from Melissa Y and Sofia Z. from the School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science. The workshop was made possible through the IEEE Region 8 Industry Engagement Fund, which supports initiatives that strengthen connections between academia and industry.