Eighty-five per cent of people trust engineers to tell the truth, says the latest Veracity Index from Ipsos, published today. Out of a list of 30 different professions, engineers are the fourth most trusted in Great Britain.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) worked with the 2023 Ipsos Veracity Index, which has been tracking the latest movements in Britons’ trust in key professions since the 1980s, to include engineering for the sixth year running.

The profession, which makes up 19% of the UK workforce* is trusted to tell the truth by 85% of the population, closely following librarians (86%) and ahead of teachers, professors, and members of the Armed Forces. Engineers have recorded similar levels of trust in previous years, including a score of 89% in 2020.

The survey did however show a higher level of distrust among younger people which may be related to younger people having lower awareness of the profession. This is something which the IET hopes to change through various perception and awareness campaigns, including its annual Engineer a Better World campaign and its recent Young Woman Engineer of the Year Awards.  

Dr Gopichand Katragadda, IET President, said: “This trust in engineers positions us uniquely to lead the charge in Responsible AI and Climate Change Action. Responsible AI is about creating technology that not only advances our capabilities but does so ethically and sustainably. As engineers, we have the responsibility to ensure that AI systems are fair, transparent, and inclusive, respecting privacy and diversity. Our role extends beyond innovation to shaping AI that aligns with societal values and norms.

“With climate change being one of the most pressing challenges of our time, engineers are at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions. From renewable energy technologies to smart infrastructure, our expertise is crucial in reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable future. Our trusted position enables us to drive meaningful change, ensuring technology and progress go hand in hand with environmental stewardship.

“The acknowledgement of our trustworthiness amplifies our duty to lead and innovate responsibly for the betterment of our planet and society.”

At the bottom of the trust league table are: politicians generally (9%), government ministers (10%), advertising executives (16%), journalists (21%) and business leaders (30%).