Held annually across the UK, Volunteers’ Week recognises the invaluable impact volunteers make in communities, organisations and professions. This year, CIHT is using the occasion to showcase how volunteering sits at the heart of the institution’s work, from supporting professional development and mentoring future talent to influencing policy and inspiring the next generation of transport professionals.

Volunteers play a vital role in supporting professionalism across the highways and transportation sector. The institution’s long-term volunteering strategy is built around empowering members to make a meaningful difference to both the profession and their communities through collaboration, skills development and leadership opportunities.

There are numerous ways to get involved. Members can support professional development as assessors and sponsors, helping colleagues progress through structured learning and career development. Others can volunteer as Quality Assurance reviewers for CIHT Learn, ensuring digital learning resources remain accurate, relevant and accessible for professionals across the sector.

Volunteers can also contribute through professional registration activities, regional committees, governance boards and strategic panels, helping to shape the direction of the institution and the wider profession. Opportunities range from serving on regional committees and awards judging panels to joining strategic boards focused on membership, education, professional development and policy.

For those passionate about outreach and education to young learners, CIHT offers opportunities to become STEM Ambassadors, delivering activities that encourage young people to explore careers in highways, transportation and planning. Volunteers can also speak at events, contribute to webinars, participate in focus groups, mentor emerging professionals or share expertise through blogs and technical content.

Importantly, CIHT emphasises that volunteering can be flexible and tailored to individual circumstances enabling professionals at every career stage to contribute in a way that fits around work and personal commitments. Volunteers receive training, induction and support, while gaining valuable leadership, networking and professional development experience in return.

Beyond making a valuable contribution to the profession, volunteering with CIHT offers significant personal and professional benefits. Volunteers have the opportunity to develop new skills, gain leadership and governance experience, expand their professional networks and enhance their career prospects. Many roles provide exposure to new areas of the sector, helping individuals build confidence, broaden their knowledge and stay at the forefront of industry developments. Volunteering can also contribute towards Continuing Professional Development (CPD), while providing the satisfaction of supporting colleagues, influencing the future direction of the profession and helping to inspire the next generation of highways and transportation professionals.

Those interested in volunteering can find out more through the CIHT Get Involved programme.

Volunteer with CIHT