2025 Winners & Finalists

The winners and finalists of the Engineering Talent Awards 2025 are listed within each category. Each candidate is truly deserving of recognition for their achievements.

Overall Excellence in Engineering 2025

WINNER

Team Bath Heart, University of Bath

The team brings together students from 18 different degree programmes, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and mutual support. Team Bath Heart’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident through its female-led structure, with women making up 43% of the team, and active partnerships with organisations like Women in STEM Bath. Inclusive practices such as unconscious bias training, diverse interview panels, social events, and an anonymous EDI survey ensure that diversity and inclusion are embedded in their culture from the outset.

Guided by expert academic advisors and a long-term commercialisation plan, Team Bath Heart is not only developing groundbreaking technology but also shaping future engineers and challenging gender inequities in both engineering and cardiovascular healthcare. This remarkable combination of innovation, teamwork, and dedication to equity makes Team Bath Heart an exemplary model for student-led engineering projects.

Engineer of the Year 2025
Supported by Aerospace Technology Institute

WINNER

Alexia Williams, Rolls-Royce

Alexia is an outstanding early-career engineer whose work combines technical innovation with a deep commitment to outreach and inclusion. She has delivered impactful engineering projects and shown leadership in roles such as STEM Ambassador, Non-Executive Director of EAL, and Trustee of Enginuity—promoting accessible career pathways and mentoring young women and apprentices.

Alexia demonstrates measurable innovation, actively engages underrepresented groups, and serves as an inspiring role model. She is a true credit to the profession and a deserving winner for this award.

SHORTLIST

Ann Hodgetts, STEMAZING

Ann is an exceptional chartered engineer with over 20 years of experience in safety engineering across both defence and non-defence sectors. She has built a diverse portfolio career, combining her freelance safety engineering expertise with her role as a Non-Executive Director at STEMAZING. Ann demonstrates a deep commitment to inclusion and outreach, empowering women in engineering through mentorship and inspiring the next generation. She has already delivered more than 3,000 STEM engagements with primary school children in areas of high disadvantage in 2025, making a measurable impact.

SHORTLIST

Carl Tipton, Johnson Matthey

Carl is an accomplished engineer whose patented acoustic measurement technique has transformed Johnson Matthey’s manufacturing by enabling real-time, non-invasive monitoring of complex fluids. His leadership has delivered measurable innovation while championing equality, diversity, and inclusion through mentoring, outreach with local schools, and embedding inclusive practices across teams. Carl is both an outstanding innovator and an inspiring role model for the profession.

SHORTLIST

Charlotte Watt, Rolls-Royce SMR

Charlotte is a talented Chemical Engineer and Senior Reactor Systems Engineer at Rolls-Royce SMR, leading the design of the Safety Class 1 Emergency Core Cooling system to enhance SMR safety and efficiency. She is an influential figure in BETA, the Early Careers Network, and Women in Nuclear, a STEM Ambassador, and is working towards coaching accreditation. Charlotte combines technical excellence with inspiring leadership, mentoring the next generation and making engineering careers accessible and aspirational.

SHORTLIST

Christopher Smeeth, AWE Nuclear Security Technologies

Christopher Smeeth is a Senior Design Engineer and AWE’s first Head of Profession for Control & Instrumentation. He has transformed the C&I profession by creating a vision and supporting frameworks, establishing a thriving community of 250+ members, and leading collaborative workshops to address challenges and share best practices. Open about his autism and ADHD, Christopher champions neurodiversity, delivering presentations, mentoring colleagues, and driving practical initiatives such as accessible IT solutions. He combines technical expertise with inclusive leadership, fostering a culture where engineers feel supported, valued, and empowered to excel.

SHORTLIST

Leon Nicholson, Rolls-Royce SMR

Leon Nicholson is a Senior Electrical Design Engineer at Rolls-Royce SMR, recognised for technical excellence and leadership in delivering complex projects. Born in Jamaica and raised by a single mother, he is a passionate advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion, serving as Network Lead for REACH, promoting unconscious bias awareness, and inspiring the next generation through STEM outreach. Leon combines engineering expertise with inclusive leadership, making the profession more accessible and aspirational.

SHORTLIST

Mohammed Ayaz, AtkinsRéalis

Mohammed is an Assistant Engineer at AtkinsRéalis, recognised for technical excellence and leadership in civil engineering projects. He played a key role in the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine scheme, delivering inclusive, sustainable designs that improve active travel. As Early Careers Community Midlands Lead, Mohammed supports over 100 early-career professionals, mentors young engineers through initiatives such as Envision, and champions diversity and inclusion. By combining technical expertise with leadership and outreach, Mohammed inspires and empowers the next generation of engineers.

Engineering Apprentice of the Year 2025

WINNER

Hannah Livingstone, Rolls-Royce

Hannah has made outstanding contributions to engineering through her academic achievements, her role at Rolls-Royce, and her impressive commitment to STEM outreach and EDI. With clear evidence of impact, including significant outreach hours and measurable outcomes, she exemplifies the values of innovation, inclusion, and leadership. A passionate role model, Hannah is not only excelling in her engineering career but also inspiring the next generation—making her a highly deserving winner for the Engineering Talent Awards.

SHORTLIST

Asfarina Jamaluddin, Lucideon

Asfarina is tackling real-world challenges in aerospace, defense, and energy. She has made significant advances in flash sintering, improving processing efficiency and scale-up feasibility. Passionate about diversity in STEM, Asfarina serves as a role model for Inspiration Academy, mentors fellow apprentices, leads lectures for students, and participates in Skills Advisory Panels. By combining technical innovation with outreach, she inspires and empowers the next generation of engineers.

SHORTLIST

Charlotte Thomas, Taylor Woodrow

Charlotte Thomas is a Civil Engineering apprentice on the HS2 Old Oak Common Station project, recognised for her technical initiative in improving complex planning processes. She is a STEM Ambassador and mentor, volunteering in schools, supporting mock interviews, and inspiring young people to explore diverse career pathways. A QUEST scholarship recipient and Technical Member of the Chartered Institute of Building, Charlotte combines technical excellence with outreach, advocacy, and mentorship, making engineering and construction careers accessible and aspirational for the next generation.

SHORTLIST

Chloe Breward, Amazon

Chloe is an RME Mechatronics Apprentice at Amazon, recognised for technical initiative, resilience, and advocacy. She led a safety enhancement project, reducing incident response times by 30%, and increasing team confidence and autonomy. Balancing motherhood and managing ADHD, Chloe challenges stereotypes and promotes diversity as a member of the Women’s Engineering Society Apprenticeship Board, inspiring others and making engineering careers accessible and inclusive for all.

SHORTLIST

Elena Richards, Rolls-Royce

Elena has demonstrated exceptional technical initiative and impact at Rolls-Royce, designing and commissioning a versatile engine gantry enclosure for the UltraFan demonstrator that improves data capture, reduces rework, and saves costs. Passionate about STEM and advancing women in engineering, she mentors a young aspiring engineer, promotes apprenticeships at the House of Commons, and volunteers with the Whitworth Society, combining technical excellence with outreach and mentorship to inspire the next generation.

SHORTLIST

Isabella Henderson, BAE Systems

Isabella has made exceptional contributions to software toolsets for whole boat control systems at BAE Systems, exceeding expectations for an apprentice. She became one of just four personnel on site to achieve WinCC OA certification within six months, and has applied her skills to develop a synthetic environment to test submarine control and indication systems. A STEM advocate and role model for women in engineering, Izzy also led the 2024 degree apprentice induction process, promoting inclusion and supporting peers while inspiring the next generation.

SHORTLIST

Luke Marinan, Nissan (NMUK)

Luke is a degree engineering apprentice at Nissan (NMUK) and Sunderland University, recognised for exceptional initiative and leadership. He led blanking trials for a new vehicle model – an achievement unprecedented for an apprentice – while transforming team dynamics through engagement and idea-sharing, improving productivity and workplace culture. A passionate DE&I champion, Luke delivers training across engineering teams and inspires the next generation through university outreach, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusive engineering careers.

Engineering Student of the Year 2025
Supported by Amazon

WINNER

Amy-Rose Richardson, University of Bristol

Amy-Rose is a promising early-career engineer and passionate EDI advocate. Alongside her studies, she leads research into barriers for women in STEM—particularly civil engineering—and actively promotes inclusion through STEM Ambassador work and Women in STEM networks. Despite personal mental and physical challenges, she continues to inspire others through her resilience and outreach. A strong winner making a real impact.

SHORTLIST

Chinmay Sharma, University of Bath

Chinmay Sharma is an ambitious Mechanical Engineering undergraduate at the University of Bath, recognised for academic excellence and innovation. He founded and chairs the Minority Ethnic Mechanical Engineers (MEMES) Society, mentoring underrepresented students and championing diversity and inclusion in STEM. Through initiatives such as industry events with Airbus and national scholarships, Chinmay inspires future engineers and creates a more equitable engineering community.

SHORTLIST

Holly Herron, ZF Group

Holly is a Maintenance Technician at ZF Peterlee, ensuring production equipment operates efficiently and safely. She actively promotes women in engineering through articles and radio interviews, inspiring others and challenging stereotypes. Holly has led projects improving efficiency and reducing downtime, demonstrating strong technical skills, resilience, and commitment to diversity and inclusion in STEM.

SHORTLIST

Mohammed Ali, University of Bristol

Mohammed, a first-year Computer Science student and Vice President of the Computer Science Society at the University of Bristol, organised a Google Insight Day that drew over 300 applicants for 135 places. Coming from a non-traditional background, he champions access to elite tech opportunities, mentors underrepresented students, and bridges industry and education through impactful initiatives.

SHORTLIST

Olivia Tomlinson, Loughborough University

Olivia, a third-year PhD student at Loughborough University, focuses on combustion aerodynamics and holds Masters degrees from Cambridge and Loughborough. She is President of the Rolls-Royce Doctoral Student Network, creating a global community for 200 international PhD researchers, organising conferences, seminar series, and initiatives promoting diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing. Olivia also volunteers as a student ambassador, lab demonstrator, and in the gliding community, inspiring others and developing leadership and collaboration skills across STEM and aviation.

SHORTLIST

Rakshitha Aakula Ramachandra, University of Essex

Rakshitha is committed to making engineering more inclusive and empowering for underrepresented students. She drives outreach, mentorship, and community-building initiatives, including as Year in Industry Representative, incoming President of the Women in STEM Society, and Student Ambassador at the University of Essex. On placement at National Highways, she contributes to digital transformation through data science and predictive maintenance, while promoting equity, visibility, and engagement in engineering.

SHORTLIST

Shohail Ismail, University of Sheffield

Shohail is a dedicated and inclusive-minded Computer Science student, passionate about using AI and technology to solve real-world problems. He actively promotes participation and equity in engineering through leadership roles, including Chair of Sheffield Volunteering, Computer Science tutor for disadvantaged students, and Brain-Computer Interface Lead at Sheffield Bionics. Overcoming personal and socioeconomic challenges, Shohail champions opportunities for underrepresented groups, combining outreach, advocacy, and technical innovation to inspire and empower future engineers.

Engineering Graduate of the Year 2025
Supported by SLR

WINNER

Katie O’Neill, AECOM

Katie is an exceptional engineer who combines technical innovation with a deep commitment to social impact. Her engineering solutions deliver real-world benefits, while her outreach work actively promotes diversity and inclusion across the sector. Despite a demanding role, she dedicates significant time to making both engineering and her wider community more equitable and inclusive. Katie’s passion, impact, and leadership make her an outstanding role model and a truly deserving award winner.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Saskia Hale, Arete Medical Technologies

Saskia delivers groundbreaking innovation addressing a critical gap in the medical market, with a clear focus on improving healthcare engineering. Her passionate advocacy for the deaf community and active ambassador roles highlight her leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering.

SHORTLIST

Daanish Chilwan, Tata Steel UK

Daanish is a dynamic early-career Mechanical Engineer at Tata Steel UK, promoted within six months of joining as a graduate. He has improved plant safety and efficiency through updating critical schematics and leading maintenance initiatives. Passionate about equality, diversity, and inclusion, Daanish mentors students from underrepresented backgrounds, shares his journey through panels and outreach programmes, and inspires the next generation to challenge stereotypes and pursue careers in STEM.

SHORTLIST

Emma Chivers, Thales UK

Emma has demonstrated engineering excellence and innovation, developing a Digital Twin for a testing facility that secured funding and reduced environmental impact, and researching VR applications to streamline design reviews. She has enhanced internal digital platforms and organized engineering roadshows, applying UX/UR strategies for maximum impact. As co-chair of the Women in Thales Network, Emma champions diversity and inclusion, leading initiatives that support women and LGBTQ+ colleagues and inspire the next generation of STEM talent.

SHORTLIST

Emma Rhodes, Eurovia

Emma demonstrates innovation and leadership, founding a dedicated network to support early-career women at Eurovia. By building a committee, securing director sponsorship, and leading the delivery of the network’s first event, she created a meaningful community that fosters inclusion and professional growth. Beyond her role, Emma contributes to the ICE Early Careers Network East Midlands as a committee member, supports students through CV clinics, and inspires young people as a STEM Ambassador. Her commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures that engineering careers feel accessible, supportive, and aspirational for the next generation.

SHORTLIST

Megan Backhouse, Thales UK

Megan combines technical excellence with a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. As a Graduate Systems Engineer at Thales, she has introduced innovative communication strategies, supported agile practices, and contributed to cross-departmental collaboration. Beyond her role, she serves as the UK EDI Rep for Early Careers, has completed over a hundred volunteering hours, and spoken at national conferences to champion diversity in STEM. By sharing her journey as a woman in engineering and openly discussing dyslexia, Megan inspires young people to see engineering as inclusive and accessible.

SHORTLIST

Suzy Martin, Ringway

Suzy has combined engineering innovation with advocacy for equity, diversity, and inclusion. She developed standardised designs for Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS), reducing costs and improving quality to address flooding and enhance green spaces in underserved communities. Alongside this, she co-founded the Early Careers Women’s Network, created Ringway’s Fairness, Inclusion and Respect plan, and volunteers as a Girlguiding leader, encouraging young women to pursue engineering careers.

Engineering Returner of the Year 2025
Supported by ECITB

WINNER

Sarah Hodgkinson, Rolls-Royce SMR

Sarah has shown outstanding success both technically and as a role model for inclusion. Proactive and innovative, she launched initiatives like Bring Your Baby to Work, supporting returners and promoting inclusive practices. A passionate advocate for engineering, she engages in outreach as a STEM Ambassador and through networks like GENIE. Her return to the profession has been a clear success—for both her and her team—with strong evidence of innovation, EDI impact, and support for others re-entering engineering.

A powerful example of inclusive leadership in action.

SHORTLIST

Gary Jiang, Domino Printing Sciences

Gary exemplifies the impact of STEM Returners, successfully relaunching his career after redundancy and a challenging break from engineering. Now a permanent hardware test engineer at Domino Printing Sciences, he is thriving in a new industry while building fresh skills. By sharing his journey through a published case study, Gary not only inspires other returners but also helps break down barriers, supporting a more inclusive and diverse engineering workforce.

SHORTLIST

Steven Walker, PD&MS

After a six-year career break from engineering, Steven relaunched his engineering career through the STEM Returners programme, joining PD&MS as a Senior Control & Instrument Designer. He has quickly become a valuable team member, expanding his offshore capabilities and technical expertise. By sharing his journey in a case study, Steven inspires other returners and helps challenge negative perceptions of career breaks, supporting a more inclusive engineering sector.

Executive Leader of the Year 2025
Supported by Royal Academy of Engineering

WINNER

Michael Gerges, University of Greater Manchester

Michael is a highly impactful leader driving significant progress in encouraging women into engineering. Through numerous programs, mentoring, and support for female staff and students, he has transformed his faculty into a more inclusive environment. Drawing on his lived experience, Michael authentically inspires and empowers others. His far-reaching impact extends across the UK and internationally, making him a standout winner for this award.

SHORTLIST

Darryl Morgan, University of South Wales

Darryl is a visionary and inclusive leader in engineering education, driving transformation in learning, teaching, and student experience at the University of South Wales. She has led strategic initiatives to enhance pedagogy, align education with industry needs, and create work-based learning opportunities. Darryl champions women in STEM, mentors students from underrepresented backgrounds, and fosters an inclusive culture for staff and learners alike.

SHORTLIST

Hayley Burns, University of South Wales

Hayley is a transformational leader committed to fostering inclusivity and supporting underrepresented voices in STEM. She has driven initiatives including the Women in STEM Network, a Faculty Neurodiversity Employee Engagement Group, and an EqualEngineers inclusivity review, improving culture and opportunities for staff and students. Through mentorship, advocacy, and values-driven leadership, she empowers others, champions diversity, and strengthens engagement across her faculty.

SHORTLIST

Jamie Goate, G.Network

Jamie is passionate about mentorship and education, having created structured career pathways that improve diversity, reduce attrition, and develop talent across the engineering industry. Through innovation, operational excellence, and advocacy for inclusion, Jamie champions EDI, workforce empowerment, and sustainable engineering, making a lasting impact on both the profession and society.

SHORTLIST

Lindsey Beer, Thales UK

Lindsey has shaped a culture of inclusiveness and championed EDI initiatives within engineering, helping Thales UK earn recognition among the top 50 companies to work for in the UK. Through mentoring, volunteering, and advocacy, she has promoted the appointment, retention, and progression of women, supported underrepresented groups, and driven social mobility programs. Lindsey’s personal story and leadership inspire others, challenge stereotypes, and foster meaningful, lasting change in the engineering community.

SHORTLIST

Stephen Gill, World Refrigeration Day

Stephen is an internationally respected engineer who drives lasting cultural change in the cooling sector. Through initiatives like World Refrigeration Day, Dyslexia in Engineering Day, and Cool Mentoring, he empowers women, neurodiverse, and underrepresented engineers worldwide. Leading by example, he mentors and supports others consistently, creating a more inclusive and equitable industry.

SHORTLIST

Will Bridgman, Warren Services

Will Bridgman is a passionate advocate for inclusive and sustainable engineering. He champions apprenticeships, mentors diverse talent, and brings SME perspectives into national skills policy. Through initiatives with EqualEngineers, local STEM outreach, and shaping vocational qualifications, Will ensures engineering is accessible to all. His leadership blends technical vision with social purpose, making a lasting impact across the UK engineering sector.

University Engineering Staff Member of the Year 2025

WINNER

Dr Luana Parisi, University of East London

Luana is an exceptional educator and EDI advocate, making a profound impact on engineering education and student development. Through a student-centred approach, she has transformed outcomes. Her leadership has driven course satisfaction to the top ranking nationally, while industry-integrated learning has enhanced student employability.

Luana champions inclusivity through real-time feedback mechanisms and innovative initiatives such as Coffee and Research Beans and Breaking the Binary, which address gender disparities and support underrepresented students through mentorship, curriculum reform, and international collaboration. Her outreach work and committee leadership further demonstrate her dedication to fostering equity in engineering education—making her a truly outstanding winner.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Joanne Johns, The University of South Wales

Joanne is a passionate and innovative educator whose hands-on projects have transformed engineering education. A champion for diversity and inclusion, she’s made a real impact in supporting women in engineering and inspiring future generations. Her work exemplifies dedication, creativity, and student-centred learning.

SHORTLIST

Professor Fiona Grant, Heriot-Watt University

Fiona has led major advances in inclusive, innovative teaching across global campuses. With over two decades shaping engineering and built environment education, she has influenced curriculum, quality, and international delivery. A strong advocate for excellence in teaching and research, Fiona ensures graduates are not only technically skilled but also globally aware and socially responsible.

SHORTLIST

Margaret Stafford, West Lothian College

Margaret, formerly of the University of Edinburgh and now at West Lothian College, is dedicated to ensuring all students achieve their potential. She invests resources into staff and student development, providing support such as trips, mentorship, meals, and essential items to remove barriers to learning. Passionate about equity and inclusion, Margaret ensures that every student, regardless of background, has access to world-class engineering education and opportunities to thrive.

SHORTLIST

Margi Vilnay, University of Dundee

Margi enhances engineering education through student-centred teaching, industry integration, and curriculum leadership. She champions diversity by supporting outreach for underrepresented groups, especially women in STEM, and co-founded EnginearringDesigns to make engineering engaging and accessible. Her work inspires the next generation while fostering an inclusive, innovative engineering community.

University Engineering Team of the Year 2025
Supported by UK Atomic Energy Authority

WINNER

Team Bath Heart, University of Bath

Team Bath Heart is an inspiring multidisciplinary, student-led team dedicated to developing a Total Artificial Heart aimed at improving survival rates for women with end-stage heart failure. Since its founding in 2022, Team Bath Heart has rapidly grown into a globally recognised group, winning the International Heart Hackathon twice and forging strong partnerships with industry leaders.

Team Bath Heart fosters a diverse, inclusive and collaborative environment, empowering members to develop engineering and business skills, build confidence and push the boundaries of medical technology.

SHORTLIST

Advanced Engineering Team, Blackpool and The Fylde College

The Advanced Engineering Team at B&FC delivers programmes across multiple disciplines with a strong focus on inclusion, wellbeing, and industry relevance. A diverse team representing six nationalities, they support student progression through inclusive teaching, tailored pastoral care, and partnerships with organisations like BAE Systems and the Ministry of Defence. Beyond teaching, their outreach, STEM Ambassadorship, and community engagement inspire the next generation of engineers.

SHORTLIST

Research and Development Workshops, University of Exeter

The Workshops provide design, manufacturing, and training support for students, staff, and researchers, from CNC and welding to bespoke systems for £37m of research. They run outreach in schools, Formula Student, and the Devon Scholars programme to inspire underrepresented groups, while diverse internships and inclusive training embed equity, diversity, and inclusion in all they do.

Innovation of the Year 2025
Supported by Rolls-Royce SMR

WINNER

A Semi-physical Brain Model for Benchmarking Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation System, HW Innovation Lab

Mira, a robotics engineering student, led the development of a low-cost, semi-physical brain model to support safer, more accessible neurotherapy research for conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and depression. Her modular system enables affordable testing of TMS devices, promoting equity in neurotechnology. Designed with inclusion in mind, it lowers barriers for underrepresented groups in biomedical research and supports STEM outreach by making neuroscience more accessible. Mira’s innovation demonstrates both technical excellence and a deep commitment to social impact and inclusion.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Advancing Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion for VLEO, Stars Edge

Stars Edge Ltd, a female-founded company in the male-dominated space sector, is driving both innovation and inclusion. Its groundbreaking AERIS system—the first air-breathing electric propulsion designed for Very Low Earth Orbit—offers sustainable, fuel-free satellite operation, reducing costs by up to 50% and enabling longer, more efficient missions. With applications in climate monitoring, telecoms, and defence, AERIS delivers strong technological and societal impact.

Beyond innovation, Stars Edge is committed to equity—empowering women, ethnic minorities, and non-traditional students through internships, mentoring, and accessible satellite platforms, helping diversify the future of the space economy.

SHORTLIST

BUILDCHAIN Project, RINA Consulting

RINA Consulting’s DeepRenoX tool, developed through BUILDCHAIN, transforms renovation planning by simulating how construction disrupts building users. Focused on schools, hospitals, and vulnerable groups, it enables planners to minimize disruption, safeguard continuity, and prioritize inclusivity. Still in pilot, this award-winning innovation is setting a new benchmark for user-centered renovation strategies.

SHORTLIST

Jayashri Goddanti, Levidian Nanosystems

Jayashri, a Digital Twin Engineer at Levidian, created an award-winning digital twin that improved LOOP device forecasting accuracy from 58% to 98%, driving efficiency, reliability, and Net Zero progress. A passionate advocate for diversity in tech, she inspires underrepresented students through lectures and mentorship, exemplifying innovation with impact in both decarbonization and inclusivity.

SHORTLIST

Nellie Technologies

Nellie Technologies pioneers modular, bioengineered carbon removal, turning CO₂ into biochar and other valuable products. Demonstrated with Celsa and scaled to 100T per year, the technology supports Zurich Insurance in one of the largest carbon removal agreements globally. Committed to inclusivity, Nellie engages underrepresented communities and implements equitable hiring practices, proving that scalable, circular decarbonization is achievable today.

SHORTLIST

RME LOTO Pouch; The Pocket-Sized Safety Revolution: Standardizing LOTO for Global Impact, Amazon

Daniel, an Amazon Engineering Area Manager and father of three, spearheaded the award-winning RME LOTO Pouch—a pocket-sized, personalized kit now standard at 150+ sites. By engaging technicians from diverse backgrounds and embedding inclusivity in design, he delivered a solution that improved compliance by 25%, boosted audit readiness, and empowered frontline ownership. This innovation not only elevated safety but also set a global benchmark for equity, efficiency, and cultural change across Amazon’s network.

Inclusion Programme of the Year 2025

WINNER

Culture & Inclusion Programme, SLR Consulting

SLR Consulting presents a comprehensive, well-led EDI strategy that embeds diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of the organisation. With strong leadership commitment, clear accountability, and alignment to business KPIs, SLR has made commendable progress in just over two years. Their intersectional approach addresses gender, ethnicity, LGBTQ+, neurodiversity, social mobility, and caregiving, supported by flexible working, inclusive policies, and nine active employee networks.

Beyond internal impact, initiatives like a cross-industry DE&I network and a targeted STEM Ambassador programme extend their influence into underrepresented communities and the environmental consultancy sector. While diversity metrics may take time to shift, SLR’s holistic strategy and ongoing commitment create a strong foundation for lasting change and demonstrate how DE&I drives both employee wellbeing and business excellence.

SHORTLIST

Burns & McDonnell UK

Burns & McDonnell UK has excelled in engineering by integrating global talent, advancing diversity, and prioritising employee wellbeing. The UK Network of Women drives gender equity and inclusive leadership, while collaboration with India has doubled engineering capacity and enhanced cross-cultural skills. A year-long Health & Wellbeing Programme supports staff resilience. Through innovation, inclusion, and global teamwork, Burns & McDonnell is building a skilled, diverse, and empowered workforce to deliver the UK’s critical infrastructure and net zero goals.

SHORTLIST

Dyslexia in Engineering

Dyslexia in Engineering Day, founded by Stephen Gill, has been recognised for its impact on engineering inclusion. The initiative celebrates the strengths of dyslexic engineers while promoting neuroinclusion and supporting career progression, mental health, and intersectional diversity. Through awareness campaigns, mentoring, and practical resources for employers, it challenges misconceptions and fosters psychologically safe workplaces, inspiring engineers globally and driving a lasting cultural shift toward a more inclusive and innovative profession.

SHORTLIST

Petrofac, Inclusion Month campaign

Petrofac has been recognised for its commitment to fostering an inclusive engineering workforce through its annual Inclusion Month campaign. Now in its fourth year, the programme engages employees globally with workshops, webinars, cultural celebrations, and interactive activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. By embedding EDI into daily practices, supporting neurodiverse and underrepresented employees, and encouraging cross-cultural connection, Petrofac drives lasting cultural change, strengthens engagement, and demonstrates how inclusion can fuel innovation and belonging across the energy sector.

SHORTLIST

Physics Inclusion Award, Institute of Physics

The IOP Physics Inclusion Award recognises university physics departments for excellence in equality, diversity, and inclusion. The award encourages departments to embed inclusive practices across governance, culture, leadership, and policies, with a strong focus on intersectionality and supporting students and staff from diverse backgrounds. Through progressive levels, departments demonstrate meaningful progress, share best practice, and create welcoming environments that foster participation and success. The initiative also prioritises mental health and wellbeing, providing training and support to ensure safe and inclusive academic communities. It showcases how collaboration and innovation can transform physics education and culture.

SHORTLIST

Skills 4 THRIVE Programme, Skills 4

The Skills 4 THRIVE programme empowers underrepresented talent in Construction & Engineering to thrive by building confidence, visibility, and career progression. Through modules on communication, self-awareness, career planning, and allyship, participants gain practical tools and mentorship, while workplaces benefit from feedback-driven culture improvements. Over the past year, THRIVE has boosted participant confidence, skills, and progression, and trained over 2,000 allies to foster inclusion, making a tangible impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sector.

SHORTLIST

Supporting inclusion in engineering, University of Plymouth

The University of Plymouth’s inclusion programme supports neurodiverse and minoritised engineering students, providing mentorship, micro-internships, inclusive workshops, and summer schools. It embeds equity and wellbeing across teaching and career pathways, aligns with Access and Participation KPIs, and develops a replicable ‘how-to’ guide. The programme fosters diversity, civic responsibility, and successful graduate outcomes, creating a meaningful impact on students and society.

Engineering Society of the Year 2025
Supported by Taylor Woodrow

WINNER

Staffs Computing Society, University of Staffordshire

This is a vibrant, inclusive Society that has grown rapidly while embedding EDI into its core activities. With a strong focus on encouraging girls into STEM and engaging members across multiple diversity dimensions, it delivers impactful events and projects that foster belonging and inspire participation. The Society’s dedication to outreach and inclusion is clear, and while longer-term impact beyond its membership is still developing, the progress so far is impressive. A strong example of grassroots-led change making a difference in STEM.

SHORTLIST

FemEng, University of Glasgow

FemEng is a student-led society at the University of Glasgow championing women and minority gender students in engineering. Over the past year, it has expanded outreach to 54 schools, relaunched FemEng in Botswana, hosted networking panels with industry leaders, and delivered hands-on technical workshops. Through collaboration, advocacy, and community-building, FemEng continues to inspire the next generation and create a more inclusive engineering sector.

SHORTLIST

Women in STEM Essex, University of Essex

Women in STEM Essex is a student-led society at the University of Essex dedicated to empowering women and minority genders in STEM. Over the past year, it has expanded its impact through industry partnerships, inclusive events, academic and wellbeing support, and outreach in the local community. By fostering confidence, representation, and career readiness, WiSTEM creates a supportive and inclusive environment where members can thrive.

Employee Network of the Year 2025

WINNER

Devonport STEM, Babcock International

The Devonport STEM Network has established a strong, growing community supported by senior leadership, with over 200 active Ambassadors driving inclusive and innovative outreach. Focused on reaching disadvantaged schools across Plymouth, Devon, and Cornwall, the network has engaged thousands of students, broadening access to STEM opportunities and challenging engineering stereotypes—especially through women-focused events and city-wide celebrations.

Backed by dedicated budgets and aligned with Babcock’s ESG Sustainability Blueprint, the network collaborates with national bodies like Engineering UK and STEM Learning, while prioritising volunteer wellbeing through tailored training and flexible engagement. By fostering a welcoming, purpose-driven environment for all staff, Devonport STEM champions inclusion and inspires the next generation to pursue STEM careers.

SHORTLIST

Heathrow Women in Engineering and Baggage Group, Heathrow Airport

This group unites women engineers and allies to promote gender equity and inclusion at Heathrow. Since 2021, they have grown through site visits, training, external speakers, and STEM outreach, including initiatives like STEMAZING. Their work has increased female representation in Engineering & Baggage by 2.7% in the past year, while creating safe spaces to share experiences, build confidence, and support wellbeing. Backed by senior leadership, the group is a key ED&I initiative within the organisation.

SHORTLIST

REACH – supporting religious, ethnic and cultural diversity, Rolls-Royce SMR

REACH supports colleagues of diverse religions, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds, providing a safe space, raising visibility, and promoting diverse talent. Since 2023, it has grown to over 100 members and delivers events for Black History Month, Diwali, Race Equality Week, and Ramadan, while highlighting role models and supporting mental health. Backed by leadership, REACH has driven cultural change and helped Rolls-Royce SMR become an Investing in Ethnicity Star Employer.

Small-Medium Enterprise of the Year 2025

WINNER

Warren Services

Warren Services is a standout SME championing inclusion, wellbeing, and sustainability. With over 100 trained mental health first aiders, flexible working, and open dialogue, the company fosters a psychologically safe and inclusive culture. Its commitment extends beyond the workplace – leading STEM outreach, inclusive apprenticeships, and Skills Bootcamps across Norfolk and Suffolk, while actively engaging other businesses through Equal Engineers.

Community outreach, values-led investment in solar energy, and a strong focus on equitable hiring and lifelong learning reflect Warren Services’ leadership in building a purpose-driven, resilient engineering future. A powerful example of integrity-led innovation in action.

SHORTLIST

Defankle Innovation

Defankle Innovation helps engineering and technology companies drive value through inclusive innovation. Their workshops, including for the Royal Academy of Engineering, embed inclusive leadership as key to responsible innovation. Initiatives like “52 Inspiring & Innovative Women” spotlight underrepresented innovators, while advocacy for accessible design supports hidden minority groups. By encouraging open discussions around failure and wellbeing, Defankle fosters a psychologically safe, resilient culture where diversity drives creativity and impact.

SHORTLIST

STEMAZING

STEMAZING advances diversity and inclusion in STEM by empowering women and hidden minority groups through initiatives like the Inspiration Academy, SPARK programme, and mentoring schemes. These programmes build confidence, public engagement, and professional growth, reaching underserved children and neurodivergent youth. By fostering supportive communities and inclusive learning, STEMAZING promotes mental wellbeing while inspiring the next generation and creating a more equitable STEM future.

SHORTLIST

Wright Engineering

Wright Engineering delivers bespoke engineering solutions while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion through its four-pillar CSR strategy. Prioritising social mobility, inclusive hiring, and mental wellbeing, the company supports apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and EqualEngineers’ Skills Bootcamps, creating accessible pathways into engineering. With visible leadership and a supportive culture, Wright Engineering exemplifies how technical excellence and inclusion build a resilient, equitable future for the sector.

Large Employer of the Year 2025

WINNER

Waterman Aspen

Waterman Aspen is reshaping engineering with a people-first culture rooted in inclusion, mental health support, and community engagement. Since launching its EDI strategy in 2022, the company has achieved impressive results across multiple diversity strands, including a 75% rise in female leaders and sector-leading wellbeing initiatives. With bold actions and measurable impact, Waterman Aspen is setting a new standard for inclusive excellence in engineering.

SHORTLIST

Alfa Laval

Alfa Laval, a global leader in heat transfer, separation, and fluid handling, advances inclusion through its “Diversity for Growth” strategy and the “Impact” programme, supporting women into leadership. The Camberley site engages learners from underrepresented backgrounds via Skills Bootcamps and site visits. Combined with flexible work practices, mental health support, and continuous development, Alfa Laval demonstrates how inclusive values and technical excellence drive workforce equity and sustainable innovation.

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Galliford Try

Galliford Try, a leading UK construction group, embeds inclusion and wellbeing into every aspect of its operations. The Guildford office supports EqualEngineers’ Skills Bootcamps with site visits and guaranteed interviews, while over 200 Mental Health First Aiders and inclusive leadership programmes foster a resilient, equitable workforce. Recognised with Bronze Clear Assured accreditation, Galliford Try champions diversity across gender, race, LGBTQ+, and neurodiversity, setting a benchmark for building not just infrastructure, but a more inclusive engineering sector.

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Rolls-Royce SMR

The Rolls-Royce Small Modular Reactor (SMR), the UK’s first domestic nuclear technology in over 20 years, delivers stable, emission-free energy for a million homes. Its Inclusion Strategy drives equity across leadership, hiring, careers, and community engagement, including initiatives like the Equal Engineers Pathways programme, STEM outreach, and internal storytelling to foster belonging. With mental health support, menopause resources, and flexible working, SMR exemplifies how technical excellence and an inclusive culture empower diverse talent to innovate and thrive in the nuclear sector.

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Thales UK

Thales UK, a leader in aerospace, defence, and security, advances inclusion through mentoring, partnerships, and programmes supporting women, ethnic talent, and the armed forces community. Collaborating with 13 schools, they promote social mobility and STEM education for 110,000 young people annually. Combined with mental health and flexible working initiatives, Thales UK shows how EDI empowers a diverse workforce to drive innovation and sustainable progress.