The WISE Awards 2024 celebrated outstanding women in STEM, as well as organisations which are making impactful changes to their gender balance.
WISE proudly partnered with The Institute of Engineering and Technology to celebrate the highly anticipated WISE Awards 2024.
The WISE Awards ceremony was held at The IET, where we celebrated and recognised the incredible achievements of women in science, engineering, and technology.
This year, the awards also celebrated Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) pioneers and highlight the hard work, success, determination and commitment of people and organisations helping to grow the number of women in the Core-STEM workforce.
The WISE Awards take place annually and are one of the highlights of the WISE calendar.
“Our 2024 awards will provide an excellent opportunity to recognise and raise the profile of pioneering women in STEM working to improve gender balance. We will also celebrate high achievers in the wider diversity and inclusion (D&I) space since much of this work improves circumstances for women working in STEM professions.”
EDI Champion Award Finalists
Julia has worked for Balfour Beatty in a number of roles, including on-site engineering, pricing and negotiating project change, and managing cost estimating in the work winning team on many major complex civil engineering projects such as Crossrail, High Speed 2 and Lower Thames Crossing. She has a drive to innovate, advancing carbon accounting capability in the business, and developing a cost, time and carbon benchmarking system that has led to her promotion to Head of Benchmarking. Julia has a passion for promoting diversity and inclusion, working tirelessly to address many of the challenges facing the STEM community. She has taken the lead on a number of key initiatives to improve retention of women in the business and to raise awareness of disability in the workplace, mentoring other women to build confidence and support career progression. Julia’s passion for these issues was demonstrated when she took a proactive and leading role in the development and roll out of the Balfour Beatty “Right to Respect” campaign, which launched this year across our UK businesses, and which is centred around valuing everyone for their skills, knowledge, experiences and the contribution they make. Julia has developed into a best-in-class leader, facing up to the gender challenges in her chosen sector. She is a powerful and passionate advocate for change and improvement and will continue to drive her company and the industry to make positive strides towards equity and equality.
“I have a huge respect for WISE and for all the work that takes place to attract and retain women in STEM fields, and I am a passionate advocate of change and creating a workplace culture where every single individual can thrive. To be nominated and shortlisted for an award for something that I would choose over and over to put my energy into is an honour and privilege, and I am extremely thankful to all those that have supported me in this.”
Abbie embeds EDI in everything she does, whether it is through her role in the nuclear industry or through her volunteering work, leading the Jacobs disability network (ACE) and being a champion for the LGBTQ+ network (Prism). Abbie is a powerful advocate for inclusion within the whole business and beyond, speaking regularly on inclusion issues both within Jacobs and at conferences, including London Build 2023. Her work in the Nuclear industry has spotlighted hidden conditions through her “silent six” initiative, focusing heavily on improving mental health on project sites. She also mentors two neurodiverse colleagues and reverse mentors a senior leader to help EDI at all levels of the business.
“I feel surprised to be recognised, but also incredibly honoured, trying to make a difference in EDI can sometimes feel like you are trying to boil the ocean, but even a small difference can have ripples. Ultimately you don’t have to change the world, to change someone’s world.”
Dr Katie Perry
The Daphne Jackson Trust is a lifeline for women returning to research who experience a career break penalty, working hard to reducing barriers and creating a more equitable and diverse workforce. Through unique mentoring and retraining for individuals, the Trust has supported nearly 500 individuals to return to research with Fellowships following a career break.
Dr Katie Perry, Chief Executive at the Daphne Jackson Trust says:
“Our team are very driven by seeing the difference we make daily to EDI in the organisations with whom we work and the researchers who would not have returned without the support of our Fellowships. Daphne Jackson was the first ever female Professor of Physics, at the University of Surrey, and a life-long campaigner for women in Science & Engineering. She recognised the loss of talent when women took a break from work and ended up in relatively low-skilled positions due to a lack of recent experience. I know Daphne would be very proud of her legacy and the incredible work the whole team does.”
STEM Returner Award Finalists
Liz Holland, Nuclear Transport Solutions
Liz Holland is a nuclear physicist (MPhys), specialising in radiation shielding. She is the Principal Shielding Specialist in Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS), conducting radiation shielding and dose rate assessments to support the successful transportation of radioactive material, both in the UK and internationally. She is the subject matter expert (SME) for radiation shielding within her organisation and manages a team that is responsible for modelling radiation transport through materials. Liz is also the Vicechair of The Shielding Forum (TSF), the UK’s industry working group on radiation shielding. She has worked on a wide range of projects within the nuclear industry, including decommissioning, research and transport, whilst also experiencing both a Nuclear Licensed Site (Sellafield Ltd) and a consultancy environment (Abbott Risk Consulting Ltd). During her career, Liz had a 5+ year break in employment whilst caring for her young family. After the break, she decided to return to the nuclear industry and was greatly encouraged by a flexible and inclusive environment at NTS, which has allowed her to not only continue with her career but to flourish, whilst also maintaining her family commitments. Liz is passionate about encouraging children into STEM subjects and helping to support and retain women in the nuclear industry.
“I am genuinely honoured to be named as a finalist for the STEM Returner WISE award – to be shortlisted as one of the top three people for this category is absolutely amazing! I think a lot of people take career breaks for a variety of reasons and it can often be so hard to re-enter the workforce, let alone back into a technical field. I feel very lucky to have been able to return into my physics specialism and have the opportunity to continue to develop and progress in my career. Having a supportive, flexible and inclusive environment is key to this, so I’m very thankful to have found our technical team, here at Nuclear Transport Solutions.”
Christine Lum, AtkinsRéalis
Having amassed 20 years’ experience as a Quantity Surveyor (QS) and Commercial Manager in the built environment and rail industries across Malaysia and the UK, Christine made the decision to take a career break in 2018 to focus on her young family (assuming the role of a Home Minister, cleaner, chef, tutor… the list goes on). In February 2022, Christine joined AtkinsRéalis as a Senior QS and within 14 months of her return to the industry, was promoted to Managing QS, showcasing both her enduring capabilities and the organisation’s recognition of her exceptional contributions. “Christine has returned to the industry after several years raising her children and whilst she initially felt a little out of place and lacking in confidence, she has quickly become a vital part of the London & South East team in commercial and procurement. She is a trusted advisor to her client on Feltham and has built her brand and credibility very quickly. Christine has also been an amazing line manager to her team and constantly strives to support other career journeys. She is an inspiration to me and so many others. I am very proud of her and truly believe she deserves this award.” – Kiren Chhoker, Regional Director at AtkinsRéalis.
“I am truly honoured to have been selected as a finalist for the esteemed ‘STEM Returner Award.’ Juggling the responsibilities as a full-time working mum isn’t easy, but my determination to be a role model for my children drives me forward, encouraging them to strive for the best versions of themselves. My aspiration goes beyond my family, as I hope to inspire others with the belief that restarting and rejuvenating a professional career after a prolonged break is not only possible, but also a hugely fulfilling journey.”
Kirsty Ayres CEnv, Anglian Water Services
With over 13 years’ experience in the water industry, Kirsty Ayres specialises in clean water network improvement projects with a view to maximising the value from infrastructure investment programmes.
She is currently the System Optimisation Portfolio Manager at Anglian Water, leading a team of engineers to design and implement holistic solutions to the clean water system from source to tap which benefit multiple performance commitments.
Kirsty is an active member of the Institute of Water, having previously been on their Rising Stars programme, and has spent much of the last year navigating the world as a working mum.
“I’m so excited to be a finalist in the STEM Returner category. It is humbling to know that sharing my experience of returning to work after maternity leave has been recognised as inspirational to other women. “
Nurturing New Talent Award Finalists
Lucy Killerby
As a solo female founder driven by a mission to democratize access to STEM careers for under-represented and less advantaged groups, being nominated as a finalist for the WISE Award for Nurturing New Talent is both an honor and a testament to the impact of our flagship STEM mentoring program, Empowered Females in STEM. With over a decade of experience in recruitment and HR, I have dedicated my career to developing equitable, inclusive, and accessible talent solutions. At Talent Spaces, which I lead as CEO and co-founder, we collaborate with global employers like Pfizer, Dyson, and BP, to not only provide diverse talent pools but also offer a suite of inclusive hiring services. Our award-winning career programs, like Upskill Me, are a cornerstone of our commitment to opening doors to global opportunities for those traditionally left behind. This recognition by WISE underscores our ongoing effort to ensure every individual, regardless of their background, can pursue and attain a fulfilling career in STEM.
Dr Kirsty Clode
I am an experienced manufacturing and engineering industry professional with over 26 years experience with BP, working in European, Asian and US operations. When I retired as Entity Leader for BP’s Petrochemical complex in Hull in 2016, one of my areas of focus was to find ways of inspiring more girls and women to take up STEM careers within the manufacturing and engineering industry. I chair the highly successful Women into Manufacturing and Engineering (WiME) programme which is a business led initiative in the Humber. I’m also an Honorary Professor at Nottingham University Chemistry department which includes being an active member of their Strategic Advisory Board and the external advisor on their EDI/Athena Swan Committee.
“I’m delighted to be shortlisted as a finalist for the Nurturing New Talent Award. It think it’s a great opportunity for me to raise the profile of the Women into Manufacturing and Engineering (WiME) Partnership in the Humber and share more about the work we’ve been doing for the last 7 years to inspire more girls/women to join our STEM workforce. It’s fantastic to see the difference a dedicated group of people can make to the aspirations of women and girls.”
Laura Hoang
Laura is a Human Factors Engineer with a Systems Engineering background. She is an award-winning Chartered Engineer, and has had a very varied career – from designing cockpits to developing safety systems for the sustainable energy sector. Laura is a STEM Ambassador. Outside of work, she is a trustee for two charities: SheCanEngineer, who are dedicated to promoting and encouraging gender equity in Engineering and she hosts their podcast, and Epistemic, whose goal is to make STEM careers advice more accessible. Laura mentors several engineers and STEM professionals, supporting them with their professional registration and other development goals. In her spare time, she volunteers for a local charity who aim to tackle loneliness in the elderly community. Her hobbies include roller derby, papercraft, travelling, and spending time with her corgi.
“I am surprised and also delighted to have been nominated and shortlisted as a finalist for the ‘Nurturing New Talent’ category – it’s something that I am really passionate about, and to have been nominated by someone who inspires me everyday is a really wonderful feeling!”
STEM Ally Award Finalists
Ivan Marziano
Ivan Marziano is a Research Fellow at Pfizer R&D UK. A Chemist by training, as well as leading a team of specialised Scientists, he co-leads the global Chemical R&D Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team, and during his tenure a number of tools were rolled out including a parental roadmap, and a workshop on unconscious bias. Ivan was also one of the organisers of the first UK/EU Empowering Women in Organic Chemistry conference in Jun 2023, a galvanising event which attracted nearly 200 Chemists at various career stages.
“I ’m really humbled to be considered for an award for what to me is a personal learning journey. My core has been rocked several times upon spending time listening and understand just how much was going on which I was oblivious to, and it’s been a privilege to be able to be in a position to implement small but hopefully positive steps that Women face on a daily basis. “
Nisha Kumari
In my role as Regional Program SDWAN Delivery Lead for EMENA at British Telecom, I successfully oversaw a global team of project managers and resources for a complex transition and transformation program for a global Nestle client. This program involved implementing Cisco Connect SDWAN Solution across approximately 700 sites in 50 countries. I set up program processes, governance models, and communication strategies, while ensuring successful delivery and managing customer relationships.
In summary, my career has been marked by leadership, expertise in project and program management, and a commitment to making a positive impact. I have consistently demonstrated the ability to drive successful outcomes, build effective teams, and foster strong customer relationships. With a passion for technology and a focus on achieving goals, I continue to strive for excellence in delivering results and contributing to the success of organizations.
“Great things happen to those who don’t stop believing, trying, learning, and being grateful.”
Rony Roy
Rony, an accomplished electrical graduate engineer, brings a wealth of multidisciplinary experience to the STEM landscape. With a background spanning engineering, technical, research, customer relations, and administration roles, Rony is dedicated to driving positive change in the industry. An influential speaker on diversity in engineering, Rony has been invited to share insights at various events and within companies, fostering discussions that propel the field forward. Currently on the path to chartership with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and an associate member of the Association for Project Management (APM), Rony serves as the Vice Chair for the East Midlands Region of Young Rail Professionals (YRP). The recipient of the 2022 Integrity Award within Atkins Réalis, Rony actively contributes to fostering diversity and inclusion, participating in initiatives such as the DerbyGBR initiative and serving on committees for Rail Consulting, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ networks.
“I am deeply honoured to be recognized as a finalist for the STEM Ally Award. This acknowledgment fuels my passion for advancing diversity in STEM and reinforces the importance of collective efforts toward equity and excellence in the field.”
STEM Leadership Award Finalists
Jess Bates
Jess is the thought leader for the Governors for Schools Skills Programme, metamorphosizing the transformative role of STEM School Governors, backed by industry, in providing sustained educational outreach and equal access to job opportunities in the schools and communities that reflect the diversity of society. By appointing talented volunteers from STEM professions to infiltrate the governance structure of the education system, Jess’ vision is successfully working to bridge the gap between the boardroom, classroom and community, using Governors equipped with Ofsted report findings and attainment data to drive STEM performance locally, but influence education policy nationally.
Committing to place 150 AtkinsRéalis STEM Governors by 2025, impacting over 150,000 young people, Jess is strategically championing STEM engagement in Girls schools, schools in areas of deprivation and SEND settings by working with pupils from the age of 3 to 25, as well as inspiring teachers through the operational delivery of a STEM curriculum. Critically, her work enables a feedback loop between AtkinsRéalis and the local community to co-design projects and direct local investment to truly leave a lasting legacy.
Already attracting significant industry interest and profile, Jess is leading the charge for change by collaborating with the DfE, Careers and Enterprise Company and the Department for Business and Trade, as well as major clients across the STEM sector to supercharge social value, create a sustainable talent pipeline for the future and most importantly, help every child realise their dreams.
Helen Townend, Head of Inclusion and Social Value at Amey Consulting, has thirty years’ experience in the Ground Engineering Sector working on Infrastructure and Mining projects in the UK and internationally. A Chartered Geologist since 1999, Helen has focused her career in the UK Transport Sector, with operational experience in a wide range of infrastructure renewal projects. Passionate about engaging the younger generation in the vast array of careers within the infrastructure sector, Helen provides Careers advice, structured work experience and Challenge Cup events. Helen supports Amey in the delivery of a more inclusive and accessible service provision that adds value for the whole community in a sustainable manner. Championing Social Value, Inclusion and Inclusive Design to build workplaces where we can all thrive and be able to provide the best impacts for our communities.
“Very excited to be shortlisted for the WISE STEM Leadership Award. Proud to be recognised for the impact I achieve through outreach and community engagement, as an advocate for gender parity and inclusion across the STEM Sector.”
Marion Clelland
Marion has built a non-linear career through personal reflection, reinventing and fully starting over. Beginning university on an Art History degree programme, she left with a 1st in Business Information Technology. Marion joined IBM in 2006 working as a technical support trainee with aspirations to lead systems architecture projects for major clients. After nearly a decade following the IT architect path, and ultimately achieving her early career goal, Marion reflected that this was no longer her passion and needed to be true to herself. Mirroring her starting role in operations support, Marion discovered Site Reliability Engineering (SRE). She instrumented a cultural shift within her department to move away from a traditional operations model that could not scale; improving engineering velocity within a few short months. Marion is most recently a senior manager within the IBM Cloud organisation invested in improving team engagement, engineering efficiency and SRE thinking.
Outside her core role, Marion is champion for her two passions: SRE and gender diversity. She is the IBM EMEA SRE Profession lead; shaping the role and career opportunities across the business through activity such as developing conferences and defining certification paths. Marion’s diversity actions range from organising and speaking at large-scale events to micro-actions such as including a different voice in a key meeting. Her influence extends into her local community with activity including roles in school governance and participation in careers days.
“I felt speechless for a full day until I considered that entirely defeats the point of highlighting role models!”
The Princess Royal's WISE Lifetime Achievement Award Finalists
Fiona Clark
Fiona’s love of maths led her to gain her degree from Cambridge University, after which she landed a job in an unexpected, very male-dominated, industry (Defence) that soon turned into a passion. Still there, nearly 40 years later, she has enjoyed a fascinating and varied career, and is recognised internationally as an expert in the field of Electronic Warfare (EW). Her career has seen her design and optimise equipment to protect front line RAF aircraft from missile attack – “protecting those who protect us” – generating defensive tactics that are in use today with the RAF and around the world. Always a passionate supporter of STEM in action, she has led many school and university engagements to inspire future generations, from primary school chats through to university residential courses. Fiona has been a mentor to countless female apprentices and graduates in Leonardo as well as more recently in the RAF. To Fiona’s delight, many of these women are now carrying out senior roles in their fields and continuing to trail blaze as role models themselves. She has taught an estimated 2000 military and civilian personnel about EW, and was rewarded for this in 2022 when she was bestowed a Visiting Professorship from Cranfield University, the UK’s Defence Academy. Her current role as Head of Capability means that Fiona is responsible for defining and driving the development of future EW systems for everything from helicopters to remotely piloted aircraft through to 6th generation fighters out to 2035 and beyond.
“I am absolutely delighted to be shortlisted for this award! I have been so lucky with the things I’ve been able to do in my career and the wonderful people I’ve met, and have enjoyed every minute. So to be recognised for doing what I love is just wonderful. Thank you WISE!”
Sandra Cummings
A trail blazer in the industry, Sandra is an inspiring leader to all, not just within AtkinsRéalis but across the Built Environment. Throughout her 25+ year career she continues to push boundaries, promoting women and everyone around her to achieve their full potential. Sandra has delivered major programmes across various Science, Technology & Education sector areas in the property world (including being Lead Technical Advisor for University of Glasgow’s £1bn New Campus Programme), and strongly values client relationships and collaborative working to solve complex challenges. She has worked in a number of roles within the business including project management, project delivery and her current UK Leadership Team position as National Win Work Director. Sandra is a driven and inspirational leader who uses her expertise and experience to support women to break the glass ceiling and fulfil their career potential. She possesses strong determination and strength, alongside a compassionate and nurturing side, which allows her to be a role model and impactful leader. Sandra is dedicated to improving the diversity of talent and encouraging the brightest future stars into our industry. In Sandra’s current role as Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Scotland Chair (one of only 3 woman to have held the position historically), she is working across a range of initiatives including government advisory forums to promote talent and skills development and diversity in our built environment.
Paula McMahon
Paula’s 30+year high profile career is particularly impressive given she has risen above her own socio-economic disadvantages to not only shine herself but to effectively encourage and inspire others into STEM careers. Her own career achievements include significant and varied roles on high profile projects globally which have gained two Chartered Fellowships, the Freedom of the City of London and an Honorary Professorship at Teesside University. She cares deeply about making the world more sustainable and equitable and she supports diversity in many ways from reaching over 45,000 participants each year to curating pioneering events and campaigns. Paula’s passion, drive and enthusiasm bring people together and she is a highly sought after international speaker with a string of podcast launches and event firsts. Paula has changed the culture of many organisations through mentoring and training people and changing policies. The number of awards she has received is a testament to her impact and the range of them indicates the breadth of her reach. Paula has recently added to her Trustee portfolio (ICE and High Tide Foundation) by becoming a Trustee of the Women’s Engineering Society, this portfolio allows her skills to make meaningful and long-term changes to STEM.
“It is wonderful to be shortlisted for such a prestigious lifetime achievement award. I am delighted to stand amongst pioneering women in STEM who are undertaking meaningful work to improve gender balance.”
The Princess Royal's WISE Rising Star Award Finalists
Joely To
Joely To is the Founder of Pioneer Maths, and is currently a Mathematics student at Warwick University. Pioneer Maths is a social enterprise that Joely launched at the age of 17, that has so far empowered over 3000 girls worldwide to pursue maths and related careers. Pioneer Maths has been featured in The Guardian, The Times and BBC Radio for its hands-on work experience events and maths competitions, and has worked with organisations such as Morgan Stanley, Experian, Zurich Insurance, Tableau and NHS England. As a result, Joely has won 7 international awards such as Innovative Young People of 2020 Award, TES Student Initiative of the Year 2021, Gen Z One to Watch UK 2021 and Woman of the Year 2021.
“I am so grateful to be shortlisted for this incredible award – a true reflection of the innovation of our team, our schools, our partners and, most importantly, of our community of trailblazing girls in maths.”
Cezara-Lidia Jalba
I am an engineer on a mission: to solve problems and make the world a better, safer and more efficient place.
I hold an MEng in Electronic and Computer Engineering from the University of York and I serve as a Control, Electrical, and Instrumentation (CE&I) Design Engineer at Sellafield Ltd. Currently leading the connected infrastructure pilot project at NRS Dounreay during my secondment at the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, I am dedicated to driving digital transformation and contributing to making decommissioning faster and safer. The challenges I embrace within the civil nuclear industry aren’t just tasks, they embody the fun, difficulty, excitement, and motivation that fuel my pursuit of excellence in my STEM career.
“Being shortlisted as a finalist for The Princess Royal’s WISE Rising Star Award is a wonderful recognition of my journey in STEM. This nomination not only honours my passion for driving innovation in the nuclear sector, but also underscores my commitment to engineering excellence and diversity of thought in delivering engineering solutions for a better and safer world.”
Samrudhi Inamdar
Samrudhi is an award-winning Avionics Verification and Validation (V&V) Engineer, working at ALTEN, UK on a Rolls-Royce Aero Engine project. Alongside her main job, she is the European Young Engineers’ Vice President for Internal Relations, a Mentor at UKSEDS, and the Chapter Director of Global STEM Initiative’s (GSI) UK chapter. She actively works for women’s empowerment and women in tech.
“I am grateful to find myself on a platform where I can truly make a meaningful impact, proud and humbled to be recognized among the finalists. The journey has just begun!”
WISE Outstanding Woman in Engineering Award Finalists
Faye Jenkins
An award-winning, trailblazer in the world of social value and D&I for almost 20 years, Faye has worked on flagship construction and engineering projects all over the world optimising the value of investment to create long-term positive legacy benefits for local communities, customers, and supply chain. Faye’s personal purpose is to level the playing field so people from all walks of life have equal and fair access to successful engineering careers. To date this has seen her support and mentor over 200 young people, mainly girls, to enter the engineering industry through various social value programmes.
“I feel humbled and thankful to considered as a finalist for Outstanding Woman in Engineering, especially by the WISE Campaign as they are an organisation who I have worked alongside and seen first-hand the positive impact they are making within STEM careers in engineering”.
Gemma Dixon
I graduated from the University of Cambridge with a 1st Class Honours Masters in Natural Sciences (specialising in Materials Science and Metallurgy). I spent 19 years working for Rolls-Royce, across a number of roles and sites, in Manufacturing Technology, Special Processes control/ materials engineering and new facility start-up. This included a new fan blade factory in Singapore and a new fan case facility in Malaysia. Since 2020, I have led the Materials Engineering – Operations department in BAE Systems, Air. I started a Continuous Improvement/ Culture change programme in 2021, which has been very successful.
I’ve often been the first person in a role. I’ve often been the only woman sat around the table. I am passionate about what I do, and there being a more level playing field in Engineering. I’m a Fellow of the IoM3, and a member of its Advisory Council and Awards Committee. I am also a school governor.
“I am thrilled and honoured to be shortlisted as a finalist. Even talking about awards like these in the workplace inspires other women to see what they can achieve.”
Sophie Harker
Sophie is the Assistant Chief Engineer of Electric Products at BAE Systems, responsible for the engineering development of electric aircraft. Previously she has worked on flight control technologies for Team Tempest, run analyses of future concept aircraft and was responsible for the company’s hypersonic and spaceplane concept development. She has a Masters degree in Mathematics and is currently studying a Masters in Sustainability Leadership at the University of Cambridge. Sophie is one of the youngest engineers to ever achieve Chartered Engineer status with the RAeS and has received multiple accolades including the IET’s Sir Henry Royce Medal, IET’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year, RAEng’s Young Engineer of the Year and RAeS’ Young Persons Achievement Award. Sophie is also the co-founder of Epistemic, a STEM outreach charity specialising in virtual engagement. In pursuit of her astronaut dreams, she is also training to be a pilot and is an Analog Astronaut with Lunares, completing her first mission in 2023.
“I am absolutely delighted to be a finalist for the WISE Outstanding Woman in Engineering award 2024! Inclusivity in STEM is so important to me, and to be nominated by one of my own team is incredibly rewarding (thank you!). I am so grateful for my work to be recognised by being shortlisted by the team at WISE.”
WISE Outstanding Woman in Science Award Finalists
Karrie Liu, the founder of Hypatia Analytics Ltd, is a seasoned mathematician with over a decade of experience in the UK healthcare and life sciences sectors. Her primary focus lies in delivering enhanced value to clients through comprehensive consulting engagements, steering business transformations with impactful and actionable insights. Establishing Hypatia Analytics in 2019, Karrie aimed to strike a balance between her role as a freelance data scientist in corporate assignments and dedicating time to pro bono projects and charitable course. She firmly believes that the core of sound decision-making resides in data and mathematics. Consequently, she is dedicated to applying these insights to inform and optimize strategic planning.
“As a mathematician, the contributions often go unnoticed. Being shortlisted as a finalist for the WISE Outstanding Woman in Science Award is an incredible honor. It acknowledges dedication, passion, and the collaborative course to propel women forward in the field. I’m thankful for the chance to contribute to the advancement of women in science and hopeful about raising awareness in the world of mathematics.”
Samantha Prior is a Senior Principal Scientist with a proven track record of success in drug development, project and people leadership. Over the last 26 years, Sam has established herself as a Process Chemistry subject matter expert in the development of new Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in the Chemical Research and Development department at Pfizer, UK. Her contributions to Vizimpro (lung cancer), Talzenna (breast cancer) and Litfulo (Alopecia) have directly impacted the lives of patients. Sam is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and inclusion, and she fosters a welcoming supportive environment for all colleagues, empowering them to achieve success.
Vera Jones is an Environmental Scientist with over 24 years’ experience in research and consultancy. She has a 1st class degree in Environmental Sciences and a PhD in aquatic biogeochemistry. Following her PhD, Vera was awarded a Marie Sklodowska-Curie post-doctoral fellowship to study the structure and cycling of oceanic carbon in France and the US. She moved to AtkinsRéalis in 2005, and is now the Global Technical Authority for Water Quality; leading a team of technical experts in the topical field of water pollution and water quality. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Environmental Sciences, a Chartered Marine Scientist with the Institute of Marine Engineering Science and Technology, and a guest lecturer at Teesside University. Her areas of specialisation include water quality modelling, emerging substances in water, bathing water and antimicrobial resistance in the environment. Vera is passionate about a making a positive difference in Equality Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) and has been co-chairing the AtkinsRéalis Empower network, which was named “Employee Network of the Year” in the Engineering Talent Awards 2021 and shortlisted as “Women’s Network of the Year” in the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards 2023. Vera mentors and undertakes a range of outreach activities to encourage more women to pursue a career in STEM. In recognition of her work in her technical field and on ED&I, Vera has received the AtkinsRéalis Diversity & Inclusion Champion Award (2019), Infrastructure Special Recognition Award (2019), Integrity Award (2022) and Sector Presidents award for a ‘stand out contribution’ in 2023.
I am hugely honoured to have been shortlisted for the WISE Outstanding Woman in Science award. I have always admired the work that WISE does, and the principles it stands for. It is such an incredible privilege to be a finalist for this important award! I hope to continue making a valuable contribution in STEM & encourage more women to follow a career in this exciting and fast-paced sector.
WISE Outstanding Woman in Technology Award Finalists
Katie Gallagher
Katie currently runs two successful not-for-profit organisations, Manchester Digital and the North West Cyber Resilience Centre, both of which play a key role in the development of the region’s tech and cyber ecosystem. She is also the chair of the UK Tech Cluster Group, which brings together the UK’s regional tech organisations to work together to share knowledge, connections and best practice.
Katie was awarded an OBE in the 2024 New Year’s Honours list for her work for the digital and tech industry in the North West.
Katie has been named on the Computing magazine ‘Tech Women Celebration 50’ list:
https://www.computing.co.uk/tech-women-celebration/page/2
Katie was also named in the list of the Computer Weekly’s 50 Most Influential Women in Tech:
At the TalkTalk Women in Tech Awards 2023, Katie was given the Outstanding Achievement Award:
Julia Von Klonowski
Julia has developed a wealth of experience in the UK Education sector (particularly in FE ) both from working directly with education institutions and as a senior executive in large Corporate Technology Companies. Her Corporate experience includes companies such as Sun Microsystems ,Oracle and AWS, both in the UK and internationally. Her desire to use the knowledge and network she had developed to benefit those who had not had the same opportunities, was the reason she left the Corporate world to collaborate and work directly with young people. She mainly works in areas of the country where there is serious deprivation and disadvantage and her desire is to make sure that every young person is given both the opportunity and the skills to be successful no matter what their background. Since she left the corporate world she has worked with more than 12,000 students running Projects, workshops and events where she believes in learning by “doing”. She has extensive knowledge of the new T-Level qualifications and Apprenticeships, and specialises in Digital Skills but knows that there are gaps in our education system that she works hard to fill by designing Projects that deliver the skills and information that are often missing from traditional curriculum. She has a particular desire to mentor and help more women into careers in technology. She partners closely with government (local and national) and education professionals to push for the necessary changes in our systems due to her desire to transform lives and to this end she sits on various Government panels and is a governor and advisor to Institutes of Technology as well as being the Chair of The CyberHub Trust charity which works with young people to deter them from cyber crime and into careers that benefit both them and society.
“I feel extremely honoured to be shortlisted by such a transformational organisation who work so hard to break down the barriers that stop women engaging in STEM. A.I. demonstrates more than ever how important it is to have the female voice as an equal partner. “
Antoinette Marshall
Antoinette Marshall is a trailblazing advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM, showcasing exceptional dedication to supporting women and neurodiversity within the field. Through her role as a Digital Coordinator at Open College Network NI, she has spearheaded several initiatives within the organisations new service development strategy, as well as developing the use of innovative technologies to assist with the implementation of accessible learning for a wider range of users; in line with OCN’s values and company mission. Antoinette’s commitment extends beyond her professional responsibilities, as she actively supports and mentors young women through initiatives like MIStem, a not-for-profit organisation promoting the acceleration of females into STEM careers. Her groundbreaking work in designing and developing an educational technology prototype specifically tailored for neurodiverse learners garnered her recognition, including the Young Female STEM Pioneer Award at the Diversity in Tech Awards. Antoinette’s unwavering passion and efforts in fostering diversity and inclusion continue to leave an indelible mark on the STEM landscape, inspiring positive change and breaking down barriers for future generations.
“Being shortlisted at WISE 2024 for the outstanding woman in tech category has been positively overwhelming, and I can’t wait to learn about all the other remarkable women throughout the awards categories this year who are moving and shaking diversity forces throughout the STEM sector – let’s make alot of noise this year!”.
Guest Judges
Victoria Dale is a highly accomplished Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) Consultant and Trainer with extensive experience working with clients in the public, private and voluntary sector.
A strong advocate of an evidence-based approach, Victoria works closely with each client building DE&I into their ways of working that fits with their vision, supports and enhances their best asset- their employees and their products/services.
Founder of Inclusion 365, DE&I Consultancy, Victoria has worked with a diverse range of businesses supporting clients within retail, professional services, technology, media, advertising, housing, prison services, defence, manufacturing, finance, transport, health, third sector and local government, higher education and regional government.
With extensive experience working at different levels across businesses, Victoria has gained an in depth understanding of key challenges employers and customers face and what works in terms of addressing challenges around recruitment, compliance and building an inclusive working culture and customer service.
Over the years Victoria has supported clients on strategic and operational programmes and projects including conducting DE&I Audits of people policies and practices, policy reviews, coaching HR Directors and facilitating action planning sessions with senior management teams. In 2017, Victoria co-produced the Equalities Evidence Base for the Mayor of London’s Diversity and Inclusion Strategy which helped to shape priorities for addressing inequalities for Londoners accessing the labour market, housing, built environment and other areas of society.
With extensive experience in facilitation and training, Victoria has designed and delivered a wide range of training including topics on inclusive cultures, micro aggressions, inclusive recruitment and selection, inclusive leadership, diversity data, Equality Impact Assessment and DE&I for HR.
As a facilitator and learning development specialist, she uses her enthusiasm, passion and detailed knowledge of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion issues to inspire, engage and encourage everyone’s participation and help deliver real positive results.
She has supported a range of employers including Babcock Marine, With Intelligence, Advantage Travel Partnership, Thirteen Group, Network Rail, Mayor of London, Transport for London, St.Christopher’s Hospice, Morgan Law, University of Brighton, Greater London Authority, Planet Mermaid, Advance HE and South Westminster Business Improvement Districts.
Victoria is an Associate member for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
Beth Clarke is a Software Engineer, blogger and speaker, specialising in quality, testing and DevOps. She is passionate about creating software that keeps people safe in their everyday lives, and helping society move towards a sustainable future with technology at its heart. Beth has worked in a range of sectors including rail, satellite communications, and her current work in the energy and pipelines sector. Beth has also served as Vice Chair of the WISE Young Professionals’ Board from 2020-23, and currently sits on the committee of the British Computing Society’s Software Testing Group. Her enthusiasm and expertise in both her work and wider diversity and inclusion issues has led to her recognition as one of the top voices in technology being recognised as a Rising Star of Women in Technology by Computer Weekly in 2021, and winner of the Rising Star Category of the 2023 Everywoman in Tech Awards.
“Judging the WISE Outstanding Woman in Technology and The Princess Royal’s WISE Rising Star Awards was a complete pleasure and privilege. The caliber of the finalists was truly outstanding, each demonstrating an impressive level of expertise, innovation, and commitment to STEM. Hearing about the remarkable achievements of these talented individuals was not only energising but also profoundly inspiring. The finalists’ accomplishments showcased a diverse range of contributions to the STEM sector, making the judging process both challenging and rewarding. The experience left me with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and admiration for the exceptional women shaping the landscape of technology with their skills and dedication.”
Mara-Tafadzwa Makoni
Mara joined PA Consulting as a Consultant in 2021. She works within Complex Systems across transport, defence and security sectors. She has international experience (USA, Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, SA) and over 13 years of professional experience. She is a qualified Systems Engineer who has managed and implemented complex projects from feasibility to completion. Mara serves on the AFBE-UK executive board and is the Corporate Partnerships Lead. She has been involved in many EDI engagements across the engineering industry including being one of the judges for the WES Top 50 UK Women in Engineering, a panellist for the EDI in research grant awards and contributing to the ICE’s anti-racism toolkit.
Natalie Desty is the Founder and Director of STEM Returners, an award-winning solution to an industry wide problem. After building a progressive career in recruitment, where she was Director of Maritime Engineering at a large recruitment company, Natalie was struck by the apparent lack of progress in diversity and inclusion within STEM industries. She was particularly concerned by the insurmountable barriers that people who have had a career break face, when wanting to return to STEM roles.
Natalie created a small pilot returners programme for a group of employers, which was a resounding success. Natalie has developed this programme into STEM Returners, which has supported hundreds of people to restart their careers in internationally renowned organisations such as BAE Systems, SSE and Leonardo UK. Returners take part in 12-week paid placements, enabling STEM leaders to access the best available talent, and in doing so, improve diversity and inclusion within their organisation. Ninety-six percent of returners secure a permanent position within the host organisation following the placement. Natalie has a BA Honours degree in International Relations and Politics from the University of Portsmouth and was given the Eily Keary Award by the Royal Institute of Naval Architects for increasing equality, diversity and inclusion in the maritime industry. STEM Returners was awarded the Maritime UK Diversity Award in 2020, the Diversity in Engineering Award by Enginuity in March 2021, and Best Returnship Programme by the Women in Tech Employer Awards in May 2022. In September 2021, Natalie was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Engineering by Southampton Solent University to recognise her work in increasing diversity in STEM.
Sarah Chapman, Senior Technical Leader and North Europe STEM Champion
A senior leader at global materials science company 3M, and Vice Chair of the Corporation Board at Farnborough College of Technology, Sarah was described as a natural dancer growing up, initially pursuing a career in ballet. Injury and an inspirational chemistry teacher led to a change of direction into STEM. Since joining 3M as an application engineer, she has won multiple awards for her work as a STEM volunteer and speaks publicly to advocate for diversity including at TEDx and the BBC. Sarah chairs the 3M EMEA Technical Women’s Leadership Forum and is the STEM Champion for 3M North Europe.
Amelia Gould CEng MEng FIET
Amelia’s career began as an Engineering Officer in the Royal Navy, where she served for 11 years at sea and ashore. She then became an Enterprise Architect supporting public and private sector organisations with digital transformation. Amelia joined BAE Systems in 2013, undertaking Technical Authority, engineering management and business leadership roles within the Maritime Sector and Group Head Office. She completed a secondment as Chief of Staff to the BAE Systems’ CEO, before returning to the Maritime Sector to lead the Combat Systems business delivering technology solutions for warships. Amelia is now Managing Director of Helsing UK, an artificial intelligence software company, where she is leading the Maritime Domain as well as building the UK business in Europe’s first Defence tech unicorn.
Meet Caroline Walters, an accomplished HR management professional with two decades of experience in the fast-paced hospitality and retail sector. Caroline excels at bridging the gap between policy guidance and the real-world needs of people. Her corporate background uniquely equips her to shed light on the critical connection between policy and the well-being of your workforce.
“Being invited to be a judge for these prestigious WISE awards has been both an honour and a privilege. It’s inspiring to be part of a forum that recognises and celebrates outstanding women in STEM, and individuals and organisation committed to improving gender parity.
The high standards of these awards set a benchmark for recognising excellence in promoting diversity and inclusion. By highlighting remarkable organisations and individuals as role models, I am hopeful that this recognition will inspire future generations and contribute to a continued positive shift, ultimately shaping a brighter future for women in STEM.”
Professor Catherine Ross CSci. CBiol. FRSB. FAHCS. FNIPC. FESC
Professor Catherine Ross is the Chief Scientific Officer for the Scottish Government, Scottish Government’s most senior clinical advisor for Healthcare Science professional issues, and head of profession for the scientific workforce with the NHS in Scotland.
Catherine is a Clinical Scientist and has worked in the NHS for over 25 years having spent most of her clinical career specialising in non-invasive cardiac imaging. She is a Visiting Professor at Edinburgh Napier University and Honorary Research Consultant in NHS Lothian.
Catherine is a member of the Science Council Board of Trustees, Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Policy Advisory Committee. She is the current Secretary/Treasurer and executive board member of the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions (ACNAP) within the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and a Past President of the Professional Body for Cardiac Scientists (SCST).
Catherine is a Chartered Scientist and Chartered Biologist. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology, The Academy of Healthcare Science, The National Institute of Prevention and Cardiovascular Health and the European Society of Cardiology.
“I was delighted to be a judge for this years awards. The calibre of the finalists was truly inspirational, and it was a pleasure to meet them all.
The finalists are shining lights and role models for current and future generations.”
Dina joined Thames Water in 2012 and has been in the operations part of the business since 2016, specifically in waste. Her time in Thames has seen her work in the Energy Team, manage large sewage treatment works to currently managing a catchment that covers strategic pumping stations and trunk sewers. She is passionate about diversity and inclusion and has been part of the Thames Water’s Women’s Network since 2018. Dina manages large frontline teams and through her work in the Women’s Network is committed to making the workplace an inclusive one, where women can thrive and develop their careers and are supported in doing so. The Women’s Network has led the way in Thames Water by supporting women through circles, lunch and learns, celebrating women through events such as International Women’s Day and running campaigns such as the Menopause Campaign and the Maternity Returners Campaign. Dina is most proud of the Women’s Network Allies Programme which is aimed at senior male leaders, raising their awareness of the challenges faced by women in Thames and giving those male allies the tools to make a difference.
With an impressive 20-year career in
healthcare operations management, Elissa Dobson brings a wealth of expertise to the world of menopause in the workplace. Her passion for people and team development is at the heart of her mission. Elissa is
dedicated to helping organisations
understand and effectively manage
menopause, ensuring a more inclusive and productive work environment.
“I had the privilege of serving as a judge for the WISE Nurturing New Talent Award, and I was genuinely blown away by the outstanding quality and passion displayed by each of the three finalists. Their innovative programs for introducing young talent to STEM were truly inspiring, especially those aimed at underprivileged and minority backgrounds. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this process and admire the finalists’ dedication to shaping the future of the industry. It’s heartening to see so many young women being inspired to pursue careers in STEM, and I’m optimistic about the sector’s exciting future.”
Steve Bennett studied Chemistry at the University of Manchester before joining Johnson Matthey in a technical role. In his Industrial career, he enjoyed experience of operations, technical sales, product marketing, commercial and then business leadership before making a conscious career change into senior level recruitment for science and innovation businesses. Initially employed and then self-employed, Steve has worked with a diverse range of companies and organisations supporting people and business development for 20 years.
He founded the Business of Science Conference in 2016 and, as this develops, increasing emphasis is on Inclusion, Equity and Diversity to ensure everyone is attracted to a career in STEM. This includes the privilege of supporting the WISE YPB and the establishment of a Future Leaders Forum to provide coaching, mentoring, and networking support for people developing their STEM careers. Away from work, Steve enjoys attending and volunteering at major sporting events and music festivals along with international travel.
PROFESSOR IJEOMA F. UCHEGBU FMedSci, HonFRSC
Ijeoma Uchegbu FMedSci is UCL’s Professor of Pharmaceutical Nanoscience, a fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, an honorary fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a governor on the Wellcome board (one of the largest biomedical sciences research charities in the world), a member of the Academy of Medical Sciences Council and Chief Scientific Officer of Nanomerics Ltd, a UCL spin out company. In 2024, Uchegbu will take up the position of President of Wolfson College, University of Cambridge having been elected to the position in November 2023. She has served as Chair of the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences and chaired EPSRC and Science Foundation Ireland grant prioritisation panels. Uchegbu is the immediate past UCL Provost’s Envoy for Race Equality, a role in which she led on race equality work at UCL. Her initiatives (e.g. Dean’s Pledges on Race Equality) were instrumental in achieving UCL’s Bronze Race Charter in 2020. Uchegbu has also presented to the UK House of Commons on the educational racial disparities that lead to a lack of ethnic minority representation in scientific research.
She has studied the mechanisms of drug transport across biological barriers and created transformational drug transport nanoparticles. She was the first to show that peptides could be delivered across the blood brain barrier to elicit a pharmacological response, when presented as peptide drug nanofibers and the first to demonstrate, via definitive pharmacology and pharmacokinetics evidence, peptide transport into the brain, using peptide nanoparticles delivered via the nose to brain route. These findings led to the enkephalin pain medicine candidate Envelta™, which was designed to address the opioid crisis. In preclinical studies, Envelta™ showed no analgesic tolerance, reward seeking behaviour or potential to cause significant constipation. Envelta has been out licensed to Virpax Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:VRPX) and is currently being developed by the US National Center for Advancing Translational Studies. If successful, this will be the first neuropeptide medicine approval and it will have been made possible by the innovation originating in Uchegbu’s group.
The technology underpinning Envelta™ won first prize in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Emerging Technologies competition in 2017 and the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences Science Innovation Award in 2016. Three other medicine candidates based on this nanotechnology have been out-licensed to pharmaceutical companies in the US.
Uchegbu has also won numerous prizes for her work and these include: the UK Government’s Women of Outstanding Achievement in Science, Engineering and Technology 2007, Royal Pharmaceutical Society Pharmaceutical Scientist of the Year 2012, Special Recognition Business of Science Leadership Award 2023 and others.
Uchegbu’s work has been funded continuously for 21 years by the EPSRC and she serves on the BBSRC Council. Uchegbu is the immediate past Pro Vice Provost for Africa and the Middle East and in this role Uchegbu led on the international research and teaching engagement strategy in this region.
Dr Ian Barnabas (CSci, CChem, FRSC) is the Head of Laboratories and Sampling for Northumbrian Water Group, he has over 30 years’ experience in the water industry. Working nationally, Ian is a board member of the Standing Committee of Analysts and has chaired their Organic Methods Working Group since 2015, having responsibly for the development of the Organic chemistry reference Bluebooks. Ian is also the chair of the British Standards Institute’s physical and chemical methods committee responsible for representing the UK in both ISO and CEN standardisation work in Water Quality.
Ishreen Bradley, Chief Inspiration Officer, Belonging Pioneers
Ishreen is passionate about all humans having a fair crack at work. She is currently leading a research project into the impact of privilege on performance and opportunity in the workplace. Her contribution to empowering under-represented groups at work has been recognised in Washington through an award from The International Alliance of Women.
In 2013, Ishreen researched the challenges facing women at work, resulting in a white paper ‘Shooting for the C-Suite’, widely acknowledged as one of the most valuable contributions in the field. This led to her authoring her first book “Authentic You”
She thrives on creating innovative ways of addressing current challenges by working with multi-skilled teams. Her current social project, ‘Heartfulness’ provides retreats in Spain and Morocco to help address mental and physical health challenges for senior professionals.
Ishreen is a Strategic Pioneer who guides Professional Leaders and their teams to navigate complex situations and achieve success with clarity, confidence and courage. Her focus is to cultivate mindsets and cultures that acknowledge valuable difference, inclusive behaviours and authentic leadership. She advises, consults, trains and coaches senior leaders through her compassionate, intuitive and incisive approach – facilitating them to develop themselves and their teams towards their growth strategy. Drawing on her 30+ years of running transformational projects with hundreds of clients around the world, She impacts Leaders to create and implement inspirational strategies that engage their colleagues – resulting in increased psychological safety, connection and tangible value.
Sakinah Merali, Technical Consultant, Capgemini Engineering
Sakinah has been working as a Technical Consultant at Capgemini Engineering for 3 years, primarily working as a Software Developer in the life sciences area. Alongside her day job, she co-leads the Capgemini Engineering UK Women’s Network, where she organises regular events aimed at opening discussions and educating staff on issues surrounding gender diversity in the workplace, and works to make Capgemini Engineering a more inclusive workplace.
Tolu is a multi award-winning ID&E practitioner with an insatiable passion for inclusion, diversity and equity. Known as a seasoned thought leader, she has a reputation for making a significant impact across various industries. She has a proven ability to envision strategically, produce tactically, build operationally, and lead collaboratively which makes her an asset to any business. Operating with the authority of a strong thought leader, Tolu endeavours to strike a healthy balance by leaning into curiosity and seeking feedback. She relentlessly pushes herself to grow professionally which allows her to provide bar-raising experiences that maintain high standards.
WISE Judges
Muneebah Quyyam, SENIOR ENGINEER AT ATKINS, Member of the WISE Young Professionals Board (WYPB).
Nintse Dan-The: Graduate Systems Engineer at Northrop Grumman UK (NGUK). Member of the WISE Young Professionals Board (WYPB), Deputy Chair of the International Council of Systems Engineers UK (INCOSE UK) Early Careers Forum, and Co-Chair of Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage (REACH) ERG at NGUK.
Dr Keith Purves
DEPUTY CHAIR OF THE WISE BOARD – SENIOR ASSOCIATE AT CHANNEL ENABLERS
“I joined WISE having developed a strong respect for the broad contribution and achievement of women I worked with in executive roles; at the same time I developed some insight into the unique challenges they face in the work environment. My goal with WISE is to help build sustainability into female STEM representation so we allow highly trained women to prosper and contribute fully in their careers for as long as they choose.”
Keith Purves has spent his working life in technology industries; he has a PhD in Chemistry and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Sayeh Ghanbari
PARTNER AT EY
“I am passionate about increasing the participation, contribution and success of women in science, engineering and technology. I believe that women have the right to full and unhindered access to all areas of work, and that their positive contribution to economic and social prosperity makes their participation crucial. Nowhere is this more important than in the STEM arena.”
Sayeh is a Partner at EY and an award winning strategy and change consultant, focusing on transport and infrastructure sectors. Sayeh usually works with clients who are facing new and significant challenges, helping them develop innovative strategies, new business models and transformation programmes. She holds a MEng in Aeronautical Engineering from Imperial College, London and is a multi-lingual martial artist.