Meet our 2026 finalists

Rachel Chiu

Principal Systems Architecture Engineer, Eutelsat

Rachel is a Principal Systems Architecture Engineer at Eutelsat Group, providing technical leadership for complex satellite communications systems. She leads cross-functional engineering activities to deliver resilient, high-performing satellite networks, spanning spacecraft, ground infrastructure, software platforms, operations, and future constellation development.

Her expertise has contributed to significant operational improvements, multi-million-dollar savings, and the continued development of one of the world's largest low Earth orbit broadband constellations. She is also a trusted advisor to senior leadership, regularly translating complex technical analysis into clear business recommendations that inform critical decisions.

Rachel is passionate about championing diversity and inspiring the next generation of engineers, mentoring early-career engineers, graduates and interns. Through her outreach, mentoring, and advocacy, she aims to make engineering more accessible and relatable. She is committed to demonstrating that technical leadership is achieved through curiosity, collaboration, and excellence rather than fitting traditional stereotypes.

Emma Findlay

Deputy Head of Electronics, Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team

Emma is responsible for the technical oversight of the Mercedes F1 car’s complete electrical system. Throughout the Formula 1 season, her role spans vehicle design, electrical validation, trackside support, reliability management, and technology development. Leading a team of 13 engineers, Emma combines technical expertise, strategic leadership, and people development to deliver engineering excellence in one of the world's most demanding engineering environments.

Emma has also delivered more than 500 hours of teaching at the University of Cambridge, mentoring over 200 students. She mentors graduates and apprentices, supports professional registration, and has contributed to student engineering projects as an Electrical Safety Advisor to a Formula Student team.

As the most senior female engineer within the Mercedes F1 design office and a working mother, Emma is a visible advocate for diversity in engineering, demonstrating that technical leadership, career progression, and family life can successfully coexist.

Ellie Owens

Reliability Engineer, Sellafield Ltd

Ellie ensures the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of critical equipment used in the processing and handling of nuclear fuel. Her role centres on developing and implementing asset strategies, monitoring equipment performance, managing risk-based decision making, supporting system modifications, and collaborating with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to deliver long-term reliability improvements.

Ellie also champions women in engineering and increasing visibility for underrepresented groups within the profession. Through mentoring, company-wide communications, outreach activities, and engagement with The IET and WES, she works to inspire the next generation of engineers and demonstrate that engineering offers diverse, rewarding, and accessible career opportunities for everyone.

Caitlin Harmer 

Modelling & Simulation Engineer (EDAS Apprentice), BAE Systems

Caitlin delivers carrier deck landing qualification training and adapts complex synthetic environments to replicate real-world operational conditions, ensuring realistic, safe, and effective training experiences.

She also contributes to BAE’s advanced simulation capabilities, leading the development of wingtip-vortex modelling from research through to pilot evaluation. She is also leading the development of a Virtual Reality-based Unmanned Aerial Systems training device, taking ownership of aircraft modelling, software development, customer engagement, and system integration.

Having often been the only girl in engineering classrooms, she is committed to encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers with confidence. Her work as a STEM Ambassador encompasses delivering outreach activities in schools and colleges and interviews with BBC Lancashire and Capital Radio, raising awareness of the opportunities available through engineering apprenticeships.

Meriem Voinica

Electronics Development Engineer Apprentice, Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team

Electronics Development Engineer Apprentice Meriem specialises in systems development for Formula 1. She delivers reliable solutions for demanding environments, with a right-first-time engineering mindset. She has led multiple car and pit equipment projects end-to-end, covering the full range of requirements for a high-performing F1 vehicle.

Passionate about STEM outreach and inclusion, she mentors aspiring engineers through programmes such as AFBE and Stemettes and volunteers with organisations including Girls on Track, Zero Gravity, the Mulberry Trust, and the Sutton Trust. Several students she has supported have secured internships and graduate opportunities within Formula 1 and engineering. She also advocates for equity, diversity, and inclusion, including serving on her company's EDI committee and organising Pride Month activities.