I am humbly honored to serve as the Chairman of the HKIE Geotechnical Division for Session 2022/23. Geotechnical engineers are unsung heroes. We build strong foundations for splendid skyscrapers and bridges; we construct rail and road tunnels through mountains and underneath the sea; we stabilize dangerous hillsides to protect lives and property from tragic landslides. We handle complex engineering problems with high degree of uncertainties as natural geomaterials – soils and rocks – have no quality assurance during production whatsoever. We should be proud of ourselves for the tremendous contributions made to the society. Hong Kong has been a front-runner in geotechnical engineering from an international perspective. The hilly topography coupled with the densely populated urban setting has presented geotechnical engineers some unique challenges. These challenges have also created the perfect platform to nurture generation after generation of world-class geotechnical engineers in Hong Kong. Looking ahead, many new town development plans, including the Northern Metropolis and the Lantau Tomorrow Vision, are in the pipeline to alleviate severe land shortage in Hong Kong. These development plans bring about great opportunities for geotechnical professionals to continue supporting the future developments of Hong Kong. Despite the bright prospect, the entire profession faces a serious shortage of talents due to various reasons. Attracting talents to join the industry has become a top priority, now more than ever, or we will not be able to cope with the pressing demand of the society. To attract talents to join the industry, we need concerted effort from each and everyone in the geotechnical profession. We need to raise the profile and enhance the visibility of geotechnical engineers in the society through taking pride of our remarkable achievements. We also need to introduce the bright career prospect as a geotechnical engineer to school students so that they can make informed decision in planning their future studies. The HKIE Geotechnical Division has an important role to play on the above. We are determined to address the pressing need of our society and to ensure the sustainable development of Hong Kong. Let us work together to nurture the future generations of world class geotechnical engineers.