Scottish Network Group
Special Interest Group: Connecting Technical Professionals Across Scotland
The IST Scottish Network exists to strengthen visibility and to support recognition and development of the technical community through engagement with professional registration across Scotland.
We are building a strong, connected community that reflects Scotland’s distinctive innovation landscape.
Mission Statement:
To connect, support, and elevate technicians and technical professionals across Scotland and the wider UK through collaboration, partnerships, continuing professional development (CPD), visibility, and shared knowledge.
The network exists to empower technicians at all career stages while creating stronger connections across institutions, industries, and professional communities. Although rooted in Scotland, the aim is collaborative rather than exclusive, working closely with colleagues and networks across the UK to strengthen opportunities, share good practice, and improve visibility for technicians and technical professionals.
We also recognise that technicians in Scotland can face specific challenges, including long travel distances, higher costs associated with attending conferences and CPD opportunities, and reduced access to professional networks in some regions. The network aims to explore practical ways of addressing these barriers through local activities, virtual engagement, collaboration, and shared resources.
Network Purpose:
- Support technical professionals working in Scotland
- Create opportunities for local engagement
- Ensure Scottish members’ voices are heard
- Develop regionally relevant events and initiatives
What the Scottish Network Will Deliver
- Regional networking sessions
- Sector-specific technical talks
- CPD workshops
- Tailored support with professional registration
- National and cross-industry collaboration events
- University and industry engagement
We are working towards launching a National Scottish Technical Event to showcase innovation, best practice and professional achievement across Scotland. If you are interested in supporting this initiative, please contact us: office@istonline.org.uk.
Listening & Representation
The Network provides:
- A platform for Scottish members’ priorities
- Feedback channels to IST leadership
- Regional insight into technical workforce needs
- Opportunities to shape national initiatives
Why Join the Scottish Network?
- Strengthen your regional professional network
- Influence Scotland-focused technical initiatives
- Contribute to national discussions
- Access local CPD and events
- Celebrate Scottish technical excellence
Be Part of It
The Scottish Network is open to all IST members based in Scotland or with strong professional links to Scotland.
Help us shape its direction.
Contact: office@istonline.org.uk