IABSE is a fellowship of structural engineers operating on a worldwide basis, with interests of all type of structures, in all materials. It acts to improve our knowledge and understanding of the performance of structures, covering concepts, analysis, design, construction, operation and maintenance. Its members represent structural engineers of all ages, employed in design, academe, construction, regulation and renewal; many of its members occupy senior roles based on a history of personal achievement. With its headquarters in Switzerland and a membership of some 4,000 individuals spread across more than 100 countries, IABSE is the international organisation for structural engineering.

Membership of IABSE is open to all qualified structural engineers. IABSE publishes its journal, Structural Engineering International, organises technical development through its working commissions and working groups, holds conferences – including its large annual event every September – produces guidance documents and, above all, offers opportunities to mix with, to learn from and to benefit by association with like-minded structural engineers from across the world.

For young engineers this means meeting eminent practitioners, making contact with other enthusiastic engineers and becoming part of a group committed to the furtherance of their subject.

For established structural engineers, whether working in academe or practice, it means expanding their range of international contacts, developing the possibility for new collaborations and being accepted into the worldwide community of structural engineers.

For companies this means increased access to and visibility within the worldwide structural engineering community, together with increased availability of new information, new perspectives and new contacts.

D A Nethercot,
Vice-President of IABSE,  November 2009