The institution over the years

OVER THE years, engineering institutions in Jamaica have existed under various names, with the earliest known organisation being the Jamaica Association of Professional Engineers, in the 1940’s.

The main objectives of this association at that time, were the advancement of engineering knowledge, the promotion and maintenance of a high standard of work in the engineering field, and to promote the recognition of the engineers’ importance to the welfare of every community. It also sought to guarantee professional integrity and to protect the engineer.

Later on, from 1960 to 1966, the Joint Group of Professional Engineers was formed. This was made up essentially of Jamaican engineers, who were corporate members of the various existing professional engineering institutions in the United Kingdom.

In 1966, this group was formed into the Institution of Engineers, Jamaica. In the early 1970s, a second and competing association, the Jamaica Association of Engineers, was formed, promoting less demanding requirements for corporate membership. However, after some years of discussion, negotiation and compromise, in 1977, Jamaican engineers were finally united by a merger between the two organisations, under a new name, the Jamaica Institution of Engineers, which is the current institution.

PURPOSE

The Jamaica Institution of Engineers exists to promote and encourage the general advancement of the engineering profession and the practice and science of engineering, and to facilitate the exchange of information and ideas among the members of the institution and its public.

DISTINCTIVE COMPETENCE

JIE, through the knowledge and experience of its members: Provides opportunities for professional development. Assesses the veracity of engineering credentials. Sets standards of engineering design and monitors their implementation. Represents the interests of engineers and fosters the general development of the profession.

IIIIPRIORITIES

Consequently, the institution’s resources are applied primarily to: The continuing education of engineers.

The representation of the interests of engineers in all fora.

IIThe development and adoption of national engineering standards.

The provision of opportunities for the ventilating and exchange of technical information and ideas.

The maintenance of adequate academic standards for engineers.

The promotion of professional ethics for engineers.

The provision of information and interface which will advance national engineering product delivery.

PHILOSOPHY

The institution believes that the engineer enhances national development by fostering technology development and transfer and sees its role as leader of the profession and protector of its public concept and image.

ORIENTATION

‘JIE is a non-profit organisation whose viability is a means of providing excellent services for members and for Jamaica.’