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IET’s Professor Danielle George receives CBE for services to engineering

Professor Danielle George, Fellow and Past President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) has received a CBE in the King’s New Year Honours list for services to Public Engagement in Engineering.

As an award-winning radio frequency engineer, astrophysicist, science communicator and broadcaster, Danielle has made significant contributions to the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). This latest accolade is in recognition of her work as an ambassador for women in engineering, for championing STEM education and inspiring the next generation to ensure the future skills pipeline.

On learning of her CBE, Danielle said: “It was truly unexpected and a huge shock to open the very official looking envelope. I’m very grateful to those involved in my nomination – I’ll find out who you are. We need young people to know that whether they’re into sports, music, fashion, flying, healthcare or improving our climate, there is a place in engineering and technology for them. Let’s celebrate engineering and all its ingeniousness!”

On learning of her CBE, Danielle said: “It was truly unexpected and a huge shock to open the very official looking envelope. I’m very grateful to those involved in my nomination – I’ll find out who you are. We need young people to know that whether they’re into sports, music, fashion, flying, healthcare or improving our climate, there is a place in engineering and technology for them. Let’s celebrate engineering and all its ingeniousness!”

Ed Almond, IET Chief Executive and Secretary, added: “This is a fantastic achievement for Danielle and a testament to her hard work, commitment and success in engineering and technology.

“Danielle has dedicated her career and voluntary work towards driving change within the STEM sector. She is an advocate for women in engineering, an active role model for young people considering STEM careers, and a recognised senior leader within the sector.

“Danielle has campaigned to embed engineering learning outcomes into the national curriculum, and she played a pivotal role in the IET’s 150th anniversary year. Through her vision and action, she directly challenged and changed engineering stereotypes amongst the next generation, helping the IET to take STEM beyond its normal communities to change the narrative on what being an engineer really means to wider society.”

Danielle joined the IET in 2017 as a member of its Board of Trustees before becoming President in 2020/21. During her Presidency she led the IET’s 150th anniversary, where she coined the term ‘Difference Maker’ and pushed for the IET to promote engineering beyond those with a natural interest in STEM.

A staunch advocate for women in engineering, Danielle continuously promotes the achievements of young women engineers – in 2021 she met the then Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, with the IET’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year finalists to discuss how to make women in STEM more visible as active role models to young people.

Danielle also led a call to embed Engineering into the primary school curriculum as part of the IET’s Engineering Kids Future’s campaign. She secured support from over 150 businesses, education providers and leaders and celebrities to encourage the Government to adjust the curriculum, with actionable recommendations.

Danielle is Vice-Dean for Teaching, Learning and Students at the University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering, and a Professor of Radio Frequency Engineering.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

About Professor Danielle George

Professor Danielle George MBE is a British Astrophysicist and engineer known for her work in the field of microwave communications and electronics. She is currently a Professor of Radio Frequency Engineering and Associate Vice-President for Teaching and Learning at the University of Manchester in the UK.

Prof. George’s research focuses on the design and implementation of microwave systems for a range of applications, including telecommunications, aerospace, and healthcare. She is particularly interested in developing new technologies for wireless communication and is a leading expert in the field of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems.

In addition to her research work, Prof. George is also an active science communicator and public speaker. She has presented several TV documentaries on the subject of engineering and has given numerous talks at schools and public events, with the aim of inspiring more young people, particularly girls, to pursue careers in science and engineering.

About the IET

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