A quick glance at the news headlines might make it seem like the world is in crisis, with challenges such as climate change, cyberwarfare, and the global water crisis. The rapid advance of artificial intelligence is also a major concern. Engineers play a crucial role in finding solutions to these challenges and in envisioning the future. However, there is a need to shift from reactive to proactive thinking and embrace a futuristic mindset. The Engineering Research Visioning Alliance (ERVA) promotes visionary thinking and brings together experts from various disciplines to address global challenges through innovative research.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers taking on a proactive, visionary role | Engineers transitioning from reactive problem-solving to proactive future shaping | Engineers leading the way in reimagining and transforming how we live, work, and play | The need to tackle global challenges and create innovative solutions |
| The importance of futuristic thinking in engineering | Fostering a mindset of envisioning and transforming | Increased emphasis on future-focused thinking and foresight in engineering | The need to push boundaries and overcome limitations of systematic thinking |
| ERVA’s role in encouraging visionary engineering | ERVA driving innovation through visioning workshops | Engineers collaborating on research priorities to solve future challenges | The desire to address societal challenges and promote technological advancements |