Q: Is there a fee to apply for the awards?
A: No. There is no fee to apply for any of the awards… the ceremony is free to attend too!
Q: How long will it take to complete the application form?
A: The amount of time it will take to complete an application varies by applicant, but it is expected that it may take you around 2 hours. This does not need to be done in one sitting, you can save and come back to your application.
Q: Are certain degrees or apprenticeships required to apply for the awards?
A: Degrees or apprenticeships related to engineering are required to apply for these awards
Q: Do I qualify for any of the awards if I am currently working towards my engineering HNC/HND (or equivalent)?
A: Unfortunately, the HNC/HND needs to be completed in order to meet the criteria. However, if you are completing this level of qualification as part of an apprenticeship, you will qualify for the Mary George Memorial Prize for Apprentices.
Q: I am currently working outside of the UK; do I qualify for any of the awards?
A: In order to qualify for the awards you must be based and working in the UK currently and for at least one year after the awards in order to fulfil your duties as an ambassador for young women in engineering.
Q: I would like to apply for two of the awards; do I need to complete two applications?
A: No, you only need to complete one application. All applications are considered for all three awards.
Q: Can you apply for a YWE award and also apply for other IET Awards at the same time?
A: Yes, you can apply for any of our other IET awards whilst applying for a YWE award.
Q: Who can complete my endorsement form?
A: The endorsement form needs to be completed by someone that knows your work and you in a professional manner. A relative should not complete the form even if you do work with them. It also needs to be someone in a role of seniority to you. Most applicants have this form completed by their manager.
Q: Can I start my online application and upload the endorsement form later?
A: Yes. Once you have started your application online you can log back in anytime up until the deadline and add the form, edit and update your application. Just make sure you click next in order to save your progress!
Q: Can you nominate someone for an award?
A: The only award you can nominate someone for is the Gender Diversity Ambassador Award. This is awarded to a person of any gender who is working in the UK and is of any age, who has spent a large proportion of their career committed to addressing the gender imbalance within the engineering profession.
Q: Do I get free membership if I become a finalist?
A: Yes, if you become one of our six finalists, you will receive free membership for one year.
Q: When do the awards open for applications?
A: The 2024 Awards open on Friday, 8 March 2024.
Q: When will the shortlist be announced?
A: We announce our shortlist on Ada Lovelace Day, which this year is Tuesday, 8 October 2024.