The WISE Awards 2024: Championing Women in STEM

The WISE Awards 2024 celebrates outstanding women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

This year’s flagship event took place at the prestigious IET in London, where STEM women and allies gathered, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the River Thames.

The Maxwell Library, steeped in historic stories of scientific progress and collaboration, welcomed guests with live music, sparkling wine, and a room filled with exceptional STEM individuals.

Now in its fourteenth year, the WISE Awards 2024 aims to recognise exceptional women in STEM and highlight organisations making impactful changes to gender balance.

For the first time, it celebrates Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) pioneers, acknowledging the determination and commitment of allies actively working to increase the number of women in the Core-STEM workforce.

This year, WISE received a high number of award nominations, selecting just three shortlisted candidates for each of the ten categories. A brilliant team of STEM professionals and mentors from WISE members formed the shortlist judging panel. The faced the challenging task of selecting the winners from formidable contenders.

During the event, David Robinson, Interim CEO of WISE, emphasised the night as a celebration of appreciation and recognition. The room exuded a strong sense of collective purpose, representing diverse sectors of the STEM industry. They were all united on a journey to foster inclusivity and break down barriers.

The Winners of WISE Awards 2024

WISE Outstanding Woman in Science Award

Karrie Liu, a mathematician and founder of Hypatia Analytics Ltd. Recognised for her passion and dedication to supporting the next generation of women in STEM.

EDI Champion Award

Julia, from Balfour Beatty, impressed judges with her drive and vision to bring about change in the construction industry.

Nurturing New Talent Award

Lucy Killerby, CEO of Talent Spaces, lauded for her transformative work supporting women STEM returners.

STEM Ally Award

Ivan Marziano, Research Fellow at Pfizer R&D UK, for his authentic approach to allyship and use of inclusive language.

STEM Leadership Award

Jess Bates, thought leader for the Governors for Schools Skills Programme. She was celebrated for bridging the gap between the boardroom, classroom, and community.

STEM Returner Award

Liz Holland, a nuclear physicist specialising in radiation shielding, commended for her inspirational returner story and outreach work.

The Princess Royal’s WISE Lifetime Achievement Award

Fiona Clark, Head of Capability for Electronic Warfare Sensors at Leonardo UK Ltd. She was recognised as an example of a woman who rose to senior levels without compromising her values.

The Princess Royal’s WISE Rising Star Award

Joely To, Founder of Pioneer Maths, hailed for her inspiring energy and dedication to empowering girls worldwide.

WISE Outstanding Woman in Engineering Award

Faye Jenkins, a trailblazer in D&I for almost 20 years, praised for her efforts to improve gender balance and inclusion in the engineering industry.

WISE Outstanding Woman in Technology Award

Katie Gallagher, Managing Director at Manchester Digital. She was lauded for her work driving social mobility in the tech sector and inspiring women in Greater Manchester.

More about the WISE Awards 2024

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