Gill Collinson, Chief Executive, writes as she joins IPEM today
The Challenges of Today, the Opportunities of Tomorrow
Gill Collinson, Chief Executive, IPEM
From emerging technologies to tackling climate change, the Medical Physics, Clinical and Biomedical Engineering, and Technologist (MPCE) community must be at the heart of critical discussions that shape the future. As specialists in applying physics and engineering to healthcare, we are essential in addressing today’s most pressing challenges and unlocking tomorrow’s innovations—ensuring better outcomes for patients and society as a whole.
Whether it’s ensuring the safe and effective diagnosis and treatment of cancer, enabling remote patient monitoring, developing life-changing prosthetics, or guiding the safe and ethical implementation of artificial intelligence, the professions represented by IPEM are at the forefront of research, development, and real-world impact. These are just a few examples of how our members save and improve lives every single day.
As I step into the role of CEO, I do so with a deep sense of pride in the work of this incredible community. As a Chartered Engineer, I have always been passionate about the transformative power of science and engineering, and I feel privileged to lead an Institution that is dedicated to recognising, supporting, and championing MPCE professionals.
IPEM – The Champion of MPCE
IPEM exists to provide leadership, advocacy, and professional support for the MPCE community. As the voice of our profession, we are committed to making the case for greater recognition, investment, and career development opportunities. Through the expertise of our members and the dedication of our staff, we influence policy, promote excellence, and drive meaningful change across healthcare, industry, and academia.
One of IPEM’s greatest strengths is its commitment to high-quality training, education, and continuous professional development (CPD). We work to ensure that our members have access to the best resources and opportunities to enhance their skills, advance their careers, and continue making an impact. Our members also play a crucial role in upholding the highest standards in safety, ethics, effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability - ensuring that patients and healthcare systems benefit from the latest scientific and technological advancements.
Beyond education and training, IPEM fosters a thriving professional community. Our events bring experts together to exchange ideas, collaborate on solutions, and shape the future of medical physics and clinical engineering. These gatherings - whether conferences, workshops, or networking sessions - are vital for knowledge-sharing, innovation, and strengthening professional connections.
Opportunities and Challenges – My Priorities
My career has taken me across the energy, engineering, and manufacturing sectors, working with organisations such as Philips, Rolls-Royce, and Siemens. Before joining IPEM, I was part of STEM Learning, where I helped establish the UK’s largest provider of STEM education and careers support. Throughout my career, I have been committed to workforce development and advocating for the power of science and engineering to drive progress.
As I take on this role, I am fully aware of the challenges ahead. We must address long-term issues such as securing appropriate recognition for our professions, tackling workforce shortages, and ensuring sustainable funding. These are complex challenges, but IPEM is already working proactively to find solutions. Initiatives like our Manifesto for the Future of Medical Physics and Clinical Engineering, our Science Leadership Strategy, and our Roadmap for Advancing Clinical Technologist Careers are just some of the ways we are making a difference.
One of my key priorities is to ensure that MPCE professionals receive the recognition they deserve - within healthcare, across industry, and at all levels of government and policymaking. IPEM is already making strides in this area, but I want to strengthen our influence further. We need to:
- Expand our CPD offering to provide even more value to our members.
- Conduct deeper workforce analysis to understand challenges and opportunities.
- Promote the profession to young people, inspiring the next generation of MPCE specialists.
- Strengthen relationships with policymakers, ensuring they understand the critical role of MPCE professionals in shaping the future of healthcare.
Now more than ever, our voices must be heard. With the Government developing new plans for the NHS, cancer care, and AI-driven healthcare solutions, this is a crucial moment to make the case for MPCE professionals as central players in shaping policy, driving innovation, and improving patient outcomes. The work is already well underway, and IPEM is committed to ensuring that our community’s expertise and contributions are fully recognised.
A Call to Action – Shaping the Future Together
I am both excited and energised by the opportunities ahead. Yes, there are challenges, but there is also enormous potential for our profession to influence the future of healthcare. IPEM is committed to being at the forefront of these conversations, advocating for our members, and ensuring that our expertise continues to drive real-world impact.
But we cannot do this alone. IPEM is only as strong as its members, and our ability to drive change depends on your engagement, expertise, and passion. Whether you are involved in research, clinical practice, education, or industry, your work is invaluable - and IPEM exists to support and champion you.
I look forward to working closely with members, volunteers, staff, and partner organisations to build on the achievements of the past and drive progress for the future. Together, we can enhance health through physics and engineering in medicine, ensuring that our profession remains at the cutting edge of innovation and impact.
This is a pivotal time for MPCE professionals, and IPEM is ready to lead the way. Let’s embrace the challenges, seize the opportunities, and shape the future - together.