Chairman's Message

I am deeply honoured and grateful for your trust and support in electing me as Chairman of the HKIE Geotechnical Division for Session 2026/2027.

At the outset, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our Immediate Past Chairman, Ir Terence Yau, and all past Chairmen and committee members. Through their leadership, dedication and selfless service, they have built a strong foundation for our Division, grounded in professionalism, sound engineering judgement and commitment to public safety.

This year, our President, Ir Prof Frank Chan, has adopted the theme “Connect Minds, Empower Tomorrow”. For the Geotechnical Division, this reflects the importance of bringing together our collective expertise, fostering collaboration across disciplines and generations, and embracing new ideas to address future challenges. Guided by the Institution’s strategic pillars of Sustainability, Evolution and Engagement, we will continue to strengthen our profession and contribute to a safer, more resilient and sustainable future.

As geotechnical engineers, we practise in a discipline where engineering judgement, accountability and public safety are fundamental. While these principles remain timeless, our profession continues to evolve. Digitalisation, automation and artificial intelligence are increasingly becoming part of engineering practice. When used responsibly, these technologies can enhance design, improve verification and support better-informed decisions. The Division can contribute to the Evolution pillar by providing a trusted platform for knowledge sharing and professional dialogue, while ensuring that sound judgement and ethics remain at the core of our profession.

Geotechnical engineers also play a vital role in advancing the Sustainability pillar through slope safety, climate resilience, sustainable infrastructure and land development. Closer integration with the Greater Bay Area presents opportunities for collaboration and mutual learning, supporting the Engagement pillar through stronger professional connections and knowledge exchange.

Equally important is our responsibility to nurture the next generation of engineers. By connecting experienced practitioners with younger members, we can share knowledge, inspire innovation and empower future leaders of our profession.

I look forward to working with the Committee and all members to advance these pillars, connect minds across our profession, and empower tomorrow through engineering excellence, innovation and collaboration.