Institution of Electrical Engineers facts for kids
The Institution of Electrical Engineers (often called the I.E.E. and pronounced I-double-E) was a very important group for people who worked with electricity and electrical engineering. It was based in Britain but had members all over the world.
The I.E.E. helped electrical engineers learn new things and share their knowledge. It was a place where professionals could connect and improve their skills.
Contents
A Look Back: The IEE's Journey
The I.E.E. started a long time ago, in 1871. It was first known as the Society of Telegraph Engineers. Back then, telegraphs were a very new and exciting way to send messages using electricity.
How the Name Changed
Over the years, the group's name changed a few times to show how technology was growing:
- In 1880, it became the Society of Telegraph Engineers and Electricians. This showed that they were interested in more than just telegraphs.
- Then, in 1889, it finally became the Institution of Electrical Engineers. This name stuck for a long time.
- In 1921, the I.E.E. received a special recognition called a Royal Charter. This made it an official and respected organization.
A Big Group of Engineers
Before it joined with another group, the I.E.E. was the largest professional engineering society in Europe. It had about 120,000 members from many different countries. These members were experts in things like electronics, manufacturing, and Information Technology.
Joining Forces: The Merger
In 2006, the I.E.E. decided to combine with another important engineering group called the Institution of Incorporated Engineers (I.I.E.). Together, they formed a brand new organization: the Institution of Engineering and Technology (I.E.T.). This new group continues to support engineers today.