Mandy Lester of Atkins (www.atkinsglobal.com), the multi-national engineering and project management consultancy, has won the Karen Burt Memorial Award during the centenary year of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) (www.wes.org.uk).

Ms Lester was nominated by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) for the award, which is presented to the best newly chartered woman engineer.

Now in its 21st year, the award recognises the candidate’s excellence and potential in the practice of engineering.

Ms Lester said: “I’m proud to be part of a profession that has the power to effect real solutions to the dual challenges of climate change and growing populations.

“Engineers aren’t born, they’re made — in my case, with the support of the IChemE plus the many individuals who have inspired me to pursue this hugely enriching career and achieve the gold standard of competence —Chartered Chemical Engineer status.

"We need engineers — and those engineers to be from diverse walks of life — now more than ever, so I look forward to working more with IChemE and WES to encourage more women to choose a career in engineering.”

IChemE fellow Helen Fennell (www.icheme.org) — a member of the selection committee at IChemE (and a former recipient of the award) — said: “Mandy studied physics prior to her career in engineering and is an excellent example of how STEM skills are transferable.

"Her dedication and passion make her a fantastic engineer and a worthy recipient of the award. I hope this inspires anyone considering the career to take a closer look at what you can achieve.”