Introducing the Global Responsibility Portrait

The engineering sector is undergoing profound change. As our world faces increasingly complex social and environmental challenges, the skills and mindsets needed in the profession are evolving just as rapidly. Today, Engineers Without Borders UK is excited to introduce a new tool designed to support this transition: the Global Responsibility Portrait.

The Portrait is the latest extension of the Global Responsibility Competency Compass, our framework that defines the 12 essential competencies required for globally responsible engineering. This free-to-use self-assessment invites anyone working in or with engineering – students, early-career professionals, educators, leaders – to pause, reflect, and better understand how they currently embody the principles of global responsibility.

A personalised snapshot of where you are today

After completing the self-assessment, users receive a personalised, downloadable Portrait that visualises their confidence and commitment across the competencies. Rather than acting as a scorecard, the Portrait is designed as a conversation starter – a tool to help you recognise your strengths, identify growth areas, and map a clearer path for your professional development.

“The Engineering Council endorses the use of the Global Responsibility Competency Compass as a progressive interpretation of UK-SPEC. This tool helps to bring to life and articulate the skills and actions everyday engineering professionals need to act in a way that is sustainable, equitable and ethical.”

– Engineering Council

Support for ongoing learning and meaningful change

The Portrait also includes space for action planning, helping individuals and teams set intentions, shape goals, and track progress over time. Whether you’re integrating inclusive design into your studies, strengthening systems thinking in your engineering practice, or leading organisational change, the self-assessment provides a practical starting point.

Alongside the Portrait, users are encouraged to explore the Global Responsibility Learning Library – a curated collection of resources to deepen knowledge and build capability across all 12 competencies.

Helping to transform the profession, together

No single person can excel in every competency. Global responsibility is a collective effort, strengthened when individuals and teams bring diverse capabilities together. We hope this tool supports individuals and teams to reflect, learn, and collaborate – ultimately helping the engineering community move forward with greater purpose.

If you’re ready to understand your current strengths, expand your practice, and shape the future of engineering, we invite you to try the self-assessment today and create your own Global Responsibility Portrait.

Create your Portrait