Student Representation and Voting on YEA Committees

Since Young Engineers Australia’s inception it has been common practice for students to vote and hold office bearer positions on Young Engineers Australia (YEA) committees. It was recently brought to the attention of the Young Engineers Australia National Committee (YEANC) that students are, in fact, both ineligible to vote in such elections and to hold office bearer positions on YEA committees. The YEANC is of the opinion that it is important students have a voice as to who represents them and have the opportunity to contribute to their Young Engineer groups and committees, particularly as they make up such a large proportion of YEA members. The YEANC are currently consulting YEA members through our YEA divisions on these issues. Following this consultation, YEANC, with the assistance of Engineers Australia’s legal advisor, will prepare a paper and draft regulation for Engineers Australia’s Council to consider. The proposed amendment to the regulations would allow: - Students to vote at YEA meetings; and - Students to be office bearers of YEA committees. I welcome any feedback from members to yea@engineersaustralia.org.au.   Dr Jessica Andrewartha Chair, Young Engineers Australia