World Engineers Day

World Engineers’ Day is an annual holiday celebrated on September 15th, honoring engineers and their significant contribution to the development of society.

History

Engineering is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt. The first known engineer, Imhotep, was involved in the construction of the Step Pyramid and is credited with being the first to use columns in architecture. He lived around 2550 BC. Egyptian engineers invented many devices used in pyramid construction, some of which have survived to this day.

Engineering evolved rapidly throughout history, especially during the late 18th and 19th centuries. Innovators such as Thomas Savery and James Watt propelled the development of mechanical engineering by creating industrial machines. Alessandro Volta, Michael Faraday, and Thomas Edison made groundbreaking advances in electrical engineering, inventing devices such as the electric light bulb, the electric motor, and the first telegraph network.

Without engineers, we would not have beautiful buildings, bridges, cars, or household appliances. In recognition of their vital work, World Engineers’ Day was established as a professional holiday.

Interesting Facts

• The elevator, now essential in high-rise buildings and skyscrapers, was first invented in ancient Egypt. However, the engineer who created it was executed to keep the technology a secret.
• The term “engineer” became widely used in the 16th century. In Holland, and later in England and Russia, designers and builders of bridges were called engineers.

How to Take Part

Show appreciation for engineers on this day. If you have friends or family members working in engineering, congratulate them and wish them continued success. Watch educational and documentary programs, such as those on the Discovery Channel.

If you’re interested, try designing a simple device yourself. Watch tutorial videos online and pick something to create with your own hands.

When is World Engineers’ Day in 2025?

World Engineers’ Day is observed on September 15 each year.

Observations