Tobias Leung and Ben Weaser: Developing the next generation of engineers
For Tobias Leung and Ben Weaser, supporting the next generation of engineers is about much more than helping people achieve professional accreditation. As mentors within NIRAS' accredited professional development schemes, they help engineers build the confidence, technical knowledge and experience needed to become Chartered Engineers, while developing the skills to deliver complex engineering projects for clients across a wide range of industries.
Tobias Leung is a Principal Engineer and Ben Weaser is a Packaging Project Manager, both are based in the UK. Together, they oversee NIRAS UK's accredited development schemes with the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), ensuring graduates and developing engineers receive the structured support, mentoring and practical experience needed throughout their professional journey.
NIRAS in the UK has been developing engineers through accredited professional development programmes for more than a decade.
While achieving Chartered Engineer status is an important milestone, Toby believes the real value lies in everything that happens along the way.
"Our schemes have been running for more than 10 years and we've seen so many graduates come through them, gaining knowledge, confidence and experience that supports both their careers and the work they do for our clients."
The IChemE and IMechE schemes follow the Engineering Council's UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC), providing a recognised framework for professional development. At NIRAS, both operate under a single Engineering Professional Development Scheme, creating a consistent approach across engineering disciplines.
For Ben, that structure gives developing engineers a clear path to professional registration.
"Everyone is assigned a mentor and follows a structured programme that helps them build the experience and evidence needed for chartership. It provides a clear route while ensuring engineers continue developing both technically and professionally."
"NIRAS doesn't manufacture products or machinery. Our greatest asset is our people. The more we invest in their knowledge, skills and experience, the stronger our business becomes."
Tobias Leung
Learning from each other
Developing engineers regularly come together to share experiences, discuss training needs and provide feedback on how the schemes can continue to improve. Mentors also meet to exchange ideas, share good practice and learn from one another.
That collaborative approach helps ensure the schemes continue evolving while creating an environment where learning is encouraged at every stage of an engineer's career.
For Toby, one of the strongest messages to come from the recent accreditation assessment was recognition of the commitment shown by both mentors and developing engineers.
"The everyday work our engineers do for clients, alongside the dedication they show in developing their own careers, was recognised by the assessors. That was something everyone involved should be proud of."
Ultimately, both Toby and Ben believe the schemes reflect something much broader than professional accreditation. Alongside developing technical capability, engineers are encouraged to engage with schools, universities and the wider profession, helping inspire future engineers while promoting the value of engineering careers.
A culture that supports development
Both mentors agree that one of the biggest strengths of NIRAS is the culture that surrounds professional development.
Whether someone is just starting their career or working towards chartership, there is always someone willing to share their experience, answer questions or offer guidance.
For Toby, that's what makes the accredited development schemes so valuable.
"They're about helping people become capable, confident engineers who continue learning throughout their careers. That's good for our people, good for our clients and good for the future of engineering."
"It's a culture where people genuinely help each other. You're never discouraged from asking questions or continuing to learn. There's a huge amount of experience across the business, and people are always willing to share it."
Ben Weaser
Toby and Ben discuss the value of mentoring and accreditation
Get in touch
Chris Bullock
Director of Engineering (UK)
Burton upon Trent, United Kingdom
