A new initiative aimed at helping engineering firms improve diversity and inclusion is set to be launched across the UK in 2025.
The Engineering Ethnicity Index (EEI), developed by AFBE-UK, will provide companies with a structured framework to assess and advance their inclusivity efforts.
The EEI, based on extensive research including the McGregor-Smith Review and the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Inclusive Cultures report, offers a comprehensive assessment of diversity strategies in engineering workplaces.
Companies participating in the programme will be evaluated across five key areas: race at work commitments, data and equality impact assessment, leadership diversity, stakeholder engagement, and talent management strategies.
Aberdeen-based Dr Ollie Folayan MBE, Co-Chair of AFBE-UK Scotland, said: “The Engineering Ethnicity Index sets a new standard for the sector. It goes beyond being a benchmarking tool by offering a practical roadmap for progress.
“By recognising achievements through a tiered certification system, the EEI encourages organisations to take meaningful action on diversity and inclusion.”
Participating companies will be eligible for gold, silver or bronze certification based on their performance in key inclusion metrics. This recognition not only boosts internal morale but also demonstrates a company’s commitment to diversity to clients, partners, and prospective employees.
The EEI pilot phase, currently underway, has already shown promising results. Companies involved have reported increased employee engagement, stronger reputations, and the identification of previously unexamined recruitment barriers.
For example, one participating firm significantly improved retention rates among ethnic minority employees after revising its hiring practices based on EEI feedback.
The certification process involves a dual assessment model: a survey evaluation, which makes up 70% of the score, and a brand monitor evaluation, accounting for the remaining 30%.
The brand monitor assesses public perception through community reputation, online presence and employee feedback.
AFBE-UK, the organisation behind the EEI, has long been a leading voice for diversity in engineering. Founded to promote inclusion across the sector, the group runs events and other programmes. It has hubs in Aberdeen and Edinburgh.
Dr Folayan, a process safety specialist with over two decades of experience in the energy sector, also serves as a visiting professor at the University of Dundee.
The EEI’s full rollout in the summer of 2025 will see engineering firms nationwide invited to participate. Companies interested in joining this next phase can learn more by visiting the AFBE-UK website – https://www.afbe.org.uk/EEI/Index
