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Our history

We have a history rooted in three key educations accords and four competency agreements, all dedicated to upholding global engineering standards.

1989
Washington Accord

The Washington Accord marks the inception of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA).

The Washington Accord is the cornerstone of the IEA's efforts to uphold global engineering standards. It focuses on ensuring that member nations recognise accredited educational programs aimed at producing professional engineers.

1997
The Competency Agreements

The International Professional Engineers Agreement (IPEA) emerges, initially known as the Engineers Mobility Forum. 

This agreement, akin to the Washington Accord, centres on professional engineers and facilitates mutual recognition among member nations.

 




2001
The International Engineering Technologist Agreement

The International Engineering Technologist Agreement (IETA) begins, initially as the Engineering Technologists Mobility Forum.

Similarly, the Agreement for International Engineering Technicians (AIET) is established, setting an international competence standard for qualified engineering technicians.

2001-2002
Sydney and Dublin Accords

The IEA sees the introduction of two significant accords: the Sydney Accord (2001) and the Dublin Accord (2002).

These accords focus on educational programs tailored for engineering technologists and technicians, respectively. They expand the IEA's scope to include specialized training for engineering professionals beyond traditional engineering roles.

2007
Formation of the IEA

The agreements decide to fund a shared secretariat, leading to the formation of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA).

This collective body enhances the IEA's capacity to uphold engineering education and professional standards globally, establishing it as an authoritative entity within the engineering community.

2014
Formalisation of Role

The IEA adopts a new governance document, formalising its role as a leading authority on engineering education and professional standards.

This step underscores the IEA's commitment to promoting excellence and consistency in engineering practice worldwide.

Now
and the future

The International Engineering Alliance currently comprises members from 41 jurisdictions within 29 countries across the international accords and agreements. 

The IEA continues to define and develop internationally benchmarked standards in engineering education and competence, working to enhance global mobility of engineering professionals while strengthening quality assurance processes and expanding its global influence through strategic partnerships.

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