Abertay lecturer wins UK-wide Institution of Civil Engineers accolade

Abertay lecturer wins UK-wide Institution of Civil Engineers accolade

Abertay University’s Dr Rebecca Wade has won the UK-wide Institution of Civil Engineers' (ICE) 2022 STEM Ambassador of the Year award. 

Dr Wade, a Senior Lecturer in Environmental Science in the School of Applied Sciences, impressed the judges with her commitment to inspiring and innovatively engaging the next generation of civil engineers. She was particularly praised for the outstanding level of enthusiasm she brings to everything, especially in her volunteer work including school visits and talks where she encourages young people to consider civil engineering as a career.  

Dr Wade, who was previously named the winner of the Scottish regional category, said excellent work had been delivered by colleagues from across the UK.  

She added: "I would like to congratulate all of my colleagues and recognise STEM ambassadors across the UK for their sterling work. 

"I hope that my enthusiasm and energy have inspired others to get into civil and environmental engineering. 

"I have no doubt that through collaborative working with allied professions we will ensure our next generations can find innovative solutions to these complex problems.” 

Dr Wade aims to address long-term challenges through STEM outreach, particularly the need to address gender imbalance, the climate crisis, global biodiversity decline and social inequality. 

She represents Abertay on the Dundee Science Centre Board of Directors, on the Dundee and Angus Regional STEM partnership Board, the Dundee City Sustainability group and the Tayside Climate Beacon Board. Through her work, she supports the transition for organisations and individuals to a more equal and sustainable future. Active involvement in these networks helps Abertay to stay involved and engaged with local and regional STEM engagement efforts and promote education and careers in STEM.