Prestige Awards: Seven previous winners reflect on their achievements

Winners have inspired young people, improved diversity and innovated in their field. Read more and find out how you can enter and win up to £10,000.

Professor Dame Ann Dowling

Winner of: James Watt International Gold Medal

Presented every two years to an eminent engineer who has attained worldwide recognition in mechanical engineering. 

Ann Dowling said: “The main challenges for engineers are how to make sure that all the world’s population can have the same standard of living that we enjoy in the developed countries. Engineers need to help provide that in a sustainable way.

“Looking forward, it is important to keep women in the engineering profession.  What is good for women is good for everyone, and makes good business sense.”

“I am really delighted [to receive the award]; it means a lot to me to be recognised by my peers.”

Anne Neville

Winner of: James Clayton Prize

Awarded for a recent exceptional contribution to mechanical engineering and related science and invention. 

Anne Neville describes winning the James Clayton Prize as one of the “major highlights” of her career. She said: “This is only possible by having some of the most fantastic PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and collaborators. I have been lucky to work with talented engineers and scientists across disciplines.”

“It is important that school children at all levels are informed about engineering. I want the profession to be inclusive, and for young people to see that engineering is a great career choice.”

Yassmin Abdel-Magied 

Winner of: Verena Winifred Holmes Award

Yassmin said: “The award acknowledges the work of Youth Without Borders and highlights the importance of diversity and inclusiveness in our world. Hopefully it will also allow us to reach more people with the message that we should all get involved in making our society and our industry as diverse, inclusive and awesome as possible.”

“It is incumbent on you to encourage others, as we all play a part in creating the ideal future. It is the duty of all engineers to support diversity."

Paul Stinchon 

Winner of: The Alastair Graham-Bryce Award 

Presented in recognition of the work of those encouraging young people into engineering careers.

Paul described his reaction when a teacher suggested that local children would like to visit Rolls-Royce. The initiative has grown to include around 500 school students: “I could think of lots of hurdles and challenges, and why it would be difficult. But I like a challenge and there was no good reason why not!

“The children were blown away. The impact on the school and the facility was excellent. By showcasing what we do we can have a positive impact on young people.”

Hiroshi Yabuno (corresponding author) and four colleagues 

Winner of: The Thomas Hawksley Gold Medal

Awarded for the best original research papers published by the Institution.

Hiroshi Yabuno said: “We are extremely honoured to be awarded the Thomas Hawksley Gold Medal and are grateful to the Institution of Mechanical Engineers for recognising our work. 

“We are also very delighted to receive this highly prestigious medal for the study of railway vehicles in the United Kingdom - the birthplace of the railway. I also wish to thank all of the previous and current colleagues in my laboratory for their dedicated and tireless efforts.”

Bridget Eickhoff (corresponding author) and seven colleagues 

Winner of: The George Stephenson Gold Medal 

Awarded for the best original research papers published by the Institution.

Bridget Eickhoff said: “Receiving this award is recognition of the value of the project to the railway industry. The various contributors worked together to produce valuable results that will enable more cost-effective introduction of new and modified railway vehicles. 

“It was a privilege to work as part of such a strong team.”

Seibum Choi (corresponding author) and two colleagues 

Winner of: Award for Risk Reduction in Mechanical Engineering

Seibum Choi said: “I have dedicated my entire career to enhancing vehicle safety and energy efficiency. These are very important topics for the wellness and sustainability of mankind, but are not getting the attention that they deserve. 

“I think this award is very important to draw attention to these seminal topics.  I would like to give thanks to my co-authors for their creativity and many years of hard work.”

IMechE Prestige Awards 2017

The closing date for all applications is 31 March. Visit imeche.org/prestigeawards.