This week the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) will challenge preconceptions and aim to change people’s minds about professional membership. Many of us in our sector think being a member of a professional body is for someone else; you need to be a certain kind of person or hold specific qualifications. This simply is not true and this week we will be letting people find out why at our free to attend online session. 

Is CIHT for me?  

- Join us online and find out at our myth busting webinar  

The event will challenge misunderstandings including that you need a certain type of degree, it is too expensive, or you can only join one body. On Thursday 11 September at 12.30pm (BST) Steve Carmody who chairs CIHT’s Membership and Skills Strategy Board will be joined by Grace Smith of WSP and Ed Downer of Buro Happold to discuss their experiences and answer the audience’s questions.   

Steve Carmody FCIHT, Chair of CIHT’s Membership and Skills Strategy Board and Managing Director SCP said:

Everyone's CIHT story is different 

“After being part of CIHT for more than 20 years, I can say that no two members have the same experience. Everyone’s journey is their own, and that’s what makes this organisation so special to me.” 

A place where everyone belongs 

“One thing I really love about CIHT is how welcoming it is. No matter where you come from or what your background is, if you’re passionate about highways and transport, you can find your place. There’s such a mix of backgrounds and perspectives, which makes things engaging and inspiring.” 

Room to grow 

“There are so many ways you can move forward in CIHT, but it all depends on the energy and time you put in. If you care about your skills, career and want to develop and learn, CIHT is the place to support you. Get yourself involved and receive the benefits today.” 

Ed Downer MCIHT and Transport and Mobility Associate at Buro Happold said:  

Not a typical transport background 

‘‘As a geography graduate, my background may not seem typical compared to the engineering professions most commonly associated with CIHT. Nevertheless, I consider my involvement with CIHT to be something of a ‘second career’, and I have thoroughly enjoyed and valued the network and professional development opportunities the organisation has offered me over the years.” 

Supporting prospective members 

“During the upcoming webinar, I will be addressing questions on eligibility for CIHT membership, aiming to clarify any uncertainties and dispel common myths about the necessary qualifications, professional backgrounds, and the scope for professional growth within the institution.” 

Grace Smith MCIHT and Associate Director, Liveable Places, WSP said:   

Access to resources, professional networks and so much more

“As a placemaking professional, I take pride in my CIHT membership, which has been instrumental in expanding my professional network and deepening my knowledge of all aspects of transport and infrastructure planning. My affiliation with CIHT provides access to valuable information and resources that support my work on various projects and workplace challenges.”  

“Benefits such as CIHT Learn and TP magazine deliver a comprehensive transport ecosystem that is readily accessible to me.” 

At a time when the job market is so tough and people need to demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to their career, joining a professional body could be the additional factor needed to let employers know that people are serious about their career and the standards to which they adhere in their professional life. 

Join us at 12.30pm this Thursday to find out more about CIHT and how it can benefit all. 

📅 Date: Thursday 11 September 2025 
🕑 Time: 12.30 - 1.15pm BST 
📍 Location: Online 
🔗 Register here: https://www.ciht.org.uk/event/is-ciht-for-me/