In a category that featured exceptional talent from across the Engineering industry, Dr Nortcliffe was acknowledged for her commitment and work leading the School of Engineering, Technology and Design to develop an inclusive and diverse education and research provision. As well as her role in working with industry to challenge the stereotypes associated with the Engineering profession and promote Engineering as a creative discipline with a focus on encouraging more women into the profession.

Dr Nortcliffe said: “To receive this award is amazing. I feel truly humbled and honoured. I work with such wonderful people and a fantastic team at Canterbury Christ Church University that it has made it possible to create a truly inclusive and diverse education and research provision for Kent, Medway and the South East, and one that will also enable our students to reach their true potential as inspirational engineers.”

Supporting the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Helen James, in realising the University’s ambition for developing a unique STEM education offering for the region, Dr Nortcliffe was fundamental to the design and fit with world class equipment of the University’s new Verena Holmes Building. A £65 million investment by the University to develop one of the largest STEM facilities in the county to strengthen the retention of high-quality graduate skills and increase diversity across critical STEM industries.

Dr Nortcliffe has also supported the development of the University’s Kent and Medway Engineering, Design, Growth and Enterprise (EDGE) Hub. Based in the Verena Holmes Building, the EDGE Hub provides opportunities for the University and local businesses to work in partnership. Supported with funding from the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP), EDGE Hub aims to encourage entrepreneurial activity and be a catalyst for digital transformation in Kent and Medway, with a strong focus on Industry 4.0 and 5.0.

Dr Nortcliffe has always sought to engage with businesses, especially on the design of the new Engineering curriculum, and to attract and retain a diverse staff and student body.

Dr Nortcliffe continued: “My remit was to design an inclusive and diverse education provision and facilities fit for purpose to support future national and regional growth in STEM industries. The opening of the Verena Holmes Building this year will enable us to continue our work of attracting more women into Engineering careers, and other critical STEM industries.

“I’m also delighted that we have a significant and growing representation of female staff within our academic Engineering team. This successful and pro-active approach to recruiting more diverse staff has led to industry now coming to talk to us, asking for advice on how to recruit female engineers and develop an inclusive workforce.”

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Helen James, said: “We are delighted that Anne’s work and expertise has been recognised with this award for leadership at the Engineering Talent Awards. Her commitment to equality, her drive for developing an inclusive and diverse culture for the staff and students at our new School of Engineering, Technology and Design, as well as her industry knowledge and engagement with business has helped support the University’s ambition to develop a truly unique and vital STEM offering. One that will provide opportunities, help our students reach their potential, boost regional skills and attract future investment into Kent and Medway.”