CQU's professor becomes first woman to chair engineering board
Published on 24 January, 2003
Central Queensland University’s Professor Elizabeth Taylor has been appointed chairperson to the Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland, making her the first woman to be appointed to the position.
Professor Taylor is the Dean of the University’s Faculty of Engineering & Physical Systems. Her appointment to the board is a first for the University. She will hold the position for a period of three years.
The Board registers professional engineers to practice in Queensland. The Board ensures those registered have the skills considered essential for a professional engineer. There are currently 6000 people on the register.
In her new role as chairperson, Professor Taylor hopes to ensure public confidence in the level of engineering expertise provided to the people of Queensland.
“I am extremely honoured at being asked to be chairperson. The Board has a new act and a new set of regulations which is currently being implemented and much of my role will be in overseeing the act being put in place.” The Board is made up of seven people – a mix of engineers and lawyers. There are four women on the board. The first woman was only appointed to the Board in 1996.
Minister for Public Works and Minister for Housing, Robert Schwarten applauded Professor Taylor’s achievements and acknowledged her appointment as a milestone for the University.
“I am delighted that Professor Taylor has accepted the Chairperson position on the Board of Professional Engineers,” he said.
“Professor Taylor brings a wealth of knowledge to the Board having been an innovative leader in her profession.
“Her academic career is outstanding and she thoroughly deserves her appointment to this prestigious position.” Photo: CQU Dean of the Faculty of Engineering & Physical Systems Professor Elizabeth Taylor.