Doha, Qatar, August 9, 2024 — The Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) - Qatar Chapter brought together its community for a remarkable day of professional growth, celebration, and purpose. The back-to-back events, Technical Conference 2024 and CE Night for a Cause 2024, were held on the same day, marking a significant occasion for civil engineers in Qatar.
Technical Conference 2024: Embracing Digital Transformation and Emerging Civil Engineering Technologies
The day began with the Technical Conference 2024, centered on the theme “Embracing Digital Transformation and Emerging Civil Engineering Technologies for Sustainable and Resilient Professional Practices.” Organized in collaboration with Engineers Australia and SFPE Qatar, the conference featured a series of insightful presentations from four keynote speakers, each addressing critical topics within the field of civil engineering.
Engr. Alfredo M. Pagulayan (PICE Qatar) opened the conference with a presentation on "Green Building - Frameworks and Future Directions," focusing on sustainable practices in construction. Following him, Engr. Maureen Nso (Engineers Australia) discussed the "Impact of Disruptive Technologies in the Construction Industry," highlighting the transformative effects of innovation. Engr. Alfonso Belito Betita (PICE Qatar) shared insights on "Hydropower Construction: The Beles Hydropower Project in Ethiopia," exploring the challenges and innovations in this major infrastructure project. Lastly, Dr. Arlan P. Beltran, PhD. (Engineers Australia), provided an in-depth look at the "Challenges Faced by Overseas Filipino Civil Engineers in the GCC: Forging a Strategic Framework by a Mutual Memorandum of Agreement through Engineers Australia."
The conference provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas, network with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into the future of civil engineering. The emphasis on sustainability encouraged professionals to adopt practices that contribute to the long-term well-being of communities. As the event concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of their role in driving innovation and sustainability within the industry.
CE Night for a Cause 2024: Celebrating Community, Honoring Achievement, Inspiring Change
The day transitioned smoothly from professional development to an evening of elegance and celebration with the CE Night for a Cause 2024. Civil engineers, along with their families and friends, gathered to celebrate the achievements of the community and to support a worthy cause.
The evening commenced with welcome remarks from PICE Qatar 2024 President, Engr. Dave G. Sanchez, who highlighted the event’s theme, “Celebrating Community, Honoring Achievements, and Inspiring Change.” He emphasized the importance of community, shared values, and the commitment to making a positive impact. “Tonight, we celebrate the remarkable community of civil engineers who have worked tirelessly to shape the world we live in. Your achievements are a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and teamwork. As we honor these accomplishments, we also look ahead, inspired to continue driving change and leaving a lasting legacy,” said Engr. Sanchez.
The evening also recognized the members who successfully passed the 2024 Philippine Professional Licensure Examinations for Master Plumber, Geodetic Engineer, Sanitary Engineer, and Civil Engineer. The Philippine Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Lillibeth V. Pono, addressed the audience, discussing the challenges and opportunities of embracing digital transformation. “The world is confronted by difficult questions on how to regulate the latest developments in technology, including artificial intelligence. The most challenging thing, perhaps, is ensuring that these emerging technologies do not diminish the value of human insights and perspectives on matters affecting humans,” she remarked, echoing the theme of the earlier conference.
The event continued with a second awarding ceremony, highlighting the significant contributions of professionals within the PICE Qatar Community. The awards were followed by a fellowship night filled with entertainment, dining, and dancing, providing a refined atmosphere where colleagues and friends reconnected, and new professional relationships were established.
Beyond the celebration, CE Night for a Cause held a deeper purpose. The proceeds from the event are dedicated to supporting the PICE Qatar Scholar Program, which funds aspiring civil engineering students in the Philippines, offering them financial assistance in their academic pursuits.
The back-to-back events of Technical Conference 2024 and CE Night for a Cause 2024 exemplified the spirit of the civil engineering community: a commitment to professional excellence, a dedication to giving back, and a passion for making a positive impact on society. These events leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire change and drive progress in the years to come.
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