TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT Updates
The 2026 Wales Regional Conference The 2026 Wales Regional Conference introduced an exciting new addition to the programme with the launch of the Dragon’s Den session, providing exhibitors with a dynamic platform to showcase innovative products and solutions to delegates and industry leaders. The session invited exhibitors
to present their products to a panel of ‘Dragons’, while also responding to questions from both the panel and the audience. The interactive format created an engaging atmosphere throughout, with delegates participating in real time through a voting and Q&A system. Following a series of impressive presentations and strong
competition from participating exhibitors, the audience selected the overall winner through a live vote. Andrew Carnegie of Air
Recently Accredited Kevin Pedro – EngTech
“Achieving EngTech registration through the Institute of Healthcare Engineering and Estate Management is a proud milestone for me. It formally recognises the practical experience, responsibility, and technical competence I’ve built over the years within NHS Estates. The process with IHEEM was clear and supportive, allowing me to reflect on my career and demonstrate my knowledge in a structured way. I would encourage others in similar roles to pursue accreditation; it’s a valuable step in both professional recognition and personal development.”
Luke Broadbent – CEng
“Achieving Chartered Engineer (CEng) status with IHEEM is a milestone I am extremely proud of. I began my career as an apprentice engineer at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, gaining early experience in live healthcare environments where engineering reliability, compliance, and resilience directly support patient care. Progressing from apprenticeship into senior estates leadership, CEng represents formal recognition of my professional competence, judgement, and accountability. It demonstrates that vocational routes, supported by continual learning and reflection, can lead to the highest professional standards. The CEng process was challenging but rewarding, encouraging reflection against UKSPEC and highlighting development beyond technical delivery into leadership and decision making. The Professional Review Interview was a constructive discussion with peers; the panel were friendly, supportive, and hugely experienced, creating a professional conversation rather than an examination.
“Chartered status strengthens credibility within estates and facilities management and reinforces my responsibility to continue developing and to support others entering engineering through apprenticeship routes.”
June 2026 Health Estate Journal 17
Sentry (pictured) was awarded the highly anticipated Dragon’s Den title in recognition of his presentation and innovative solution.
The success of the inaugural session was warmly received by
delegates and exhibitors alike, and the Dragon’s Den session is expected to become a popular and anticipated feature of future Wales Regional Conferences. To view or download photos of the event, please visit:
https://www.iheem.org.uk/events/wales-regional-conference- exhibition-and-awards-dinner-2026/
Big Bang Competition The final selection process for this year’s Big Bang Competition
took place on 1 May, with judges reviewing an impressive range of submissions from applicants. Finalists were selected for the chance to win the IHEEM Innovation in Wellbeing & Healthcare Engineering Award, which celebrates young people’s dedication to improving the physical health and wellbeing of society. The overall winner will be announced at this year’s The Big Bang Fair, taking place from 9–11 June 2026. A full piece on the winner will follow in the next HEJ edition. To find out more about The Big Bang Competition, visit:
https://www.thebigbang.org.uk/the-big-bang-competition/
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72
