Professor Tim Ibell, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Design, has been named the winner of the Male Agent of Change category at this year’s everywoman in Technology Awards, announced on 17 March at the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel.

The award recognises those who actively champion and accelerate the progress of women working in engineering, technology and related fields. Professor Ibell was selected for his sustained commitment to building an inclusive culture within the faculty and for his long-standing sponsorship, mentorship and advocacy for women at all stages of their engineering careers.

Professor Ibell’s win caps a record year at the everywoman in Technology Awards, where four academics from across the Faculty of Engineering and Design were named finalists in multiple categories.

Also nominated were Professor Linda Newnes, who leads the People-Led Centres for Digitalisation and Net Zero and co-directs The Foundry: Centre for Digital Manufacturing and Design, and was a finalist in the Team Leader category; Dr Despina Moschou, shortlisted in Tech for Good for her pioneering Lab-on-Chip diagnostic technologies; and Dr Hannah Leese, who’s work developing accessible diagnostic tools to support women’s and newborn healthcare, including pain-free microneedle technologies, earned her a nomination in the Innovator category.

Professor Emma Carmel, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research), said: “Tim’s recognition is richly deserved and reflects both his exemplary leadership in creating an inclusive research culture and advancing the University’s broader commitment to the advancement of gender equality.

“I am equally proud of Linda, Despina and Hannah, whose achievements and national recognition highlight the outstanding calibre and impact of our researchers across the Faculty of Engineering and Design.”

Now in their 16th year, the everywoman in Technology Awards are the UK’s longest-running programme celebrating outstanding women in the sector, recognising individuals who are driving technological innovation and shaping the future of engineering and tech.

Speaking on his win, Professor Ibell said: “I am hugely honoured to receive this award. The real credit goes to the brilliant women I’ve had the privilege to work alongside, including three further finalists at this year’s awards in Linda, Hannah and Despina. “My job is so easy when you have such super-star colleagues who share a commitment to creating a more equitable culture. Great professions benefit all of humanity; how can this outcome be possible unless our profession represents all of humanity? Supporting equity and diversity in engineering is then non-negotiable.”