An inaugural lecture - Professor Claire Lucas

Unlocking the future: A Case for Key-shaped Engineers

The world is changing fast — and so are the problems we need engineers to solve. The old idea of the “T-shaped engineer” (someone with broad knowledge and deep skills in one area) isn’t enough anymore.

In this inspiring talk, Professor Claire Lucas advocates an alternative kind of engineer: the “key-shaped” engineer. These engineers not only have strong technical skills, but also understand big-picture thinking, sustainability, ethics, and creativity. They can work across different areas — from self-driving cars to climate change — and design solutions that really work for people.

Claire will also talk about her design-first approach to teaching engineering at King’s College London, which helped students become more confident, creative, and ready for the real world. Now Dean of Engineering at Aston University, she continues to push for education that prepares students to make a real difference.

• Registration and refreshments: 17:30
• Lecture: 18:00
• Drinks reception: 19:00 - 19:30