The inaugural Women in Geotechnics (WiGeotech) Afternoon Tea, hosted by the British Geotechnical Association (BGA), delivered an inspiring, engaging and highly successful half-day event on 2 March 2026. With over 220 attendees representing academia, consultancy, contracting, client organisations, early careers and students, the event highlighted the sector’s commitment to inclusion, mentorship and collaboration across the UK ground engineering community.
Held at the Institution of Civil Engineers in Westminster, the programme blended thoughtful presentations with lively discussions, offering both personal insight and professional reflection from established and emerging voices in the industry.
Inspiring Journeys: Personal Insights from Across the Profession
The afternoon opened with three compelling Presentations of Inspiring Journeys, each capturing a different stage of a geotechnical career path:
- Jola Brown, Geotechnical Engineer, WSP — early career perspectives on growth and opportunity.
- Dr Njemile Faustin, Principal Geotechnical Engineer, AECOM — reflections on shaping a mid-career trajectory.
- Jane Towse-Laval, Managing Director, Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering — senior leadership insights on resilience, influence and industry impact.
Each presenter shared candid stories about challenges faced, lessons learned and the pivotal roles that mentorship, professional networks and inclusive cultures play in sustaining careers in geotechnics. The richness and diversity of experiences resonated strongly with delegates across all career stages.
Championing Inclusion: A Thought-Provoking Panel Discussion
Following a refreshment break, the audience returned for a dynamic panel discussion on Championing Inclusion in Geotechnics, featuring a cross-section of perspectives from asset owners, contractors and consultants:
- Yvonne Ainsworth, Principal Associate, Hawkins & Associates (Moderator)
- Sarah Trinder, Geotechnical Lead, HS2 (Asset Owner)
- Dr Roni Savage, CEO, Jomas Associates (Contractor)
- Alex Nikolic, Director, A-Squared Studio Engineers (Consultant)
- Tim Chapman, Partner and Director, Boston Consulting Group (Consultant)
The panel explored concrete strategies for advancing diversity and inclusion within organisations, from recruiting practices to leadership development and allyship. Contributions emphasised that inclusive cultures benefit not only individuals but the technical excellence and innovation of the discipline as a whole. Delegates actively engaged in the discussion, sharing questions, reflections and visions for continued progress.
Connecting, Celebrating, Inspiring
WiGeotech 2026 succeeded in creating a space where professionals at all levels could connect, share and reflect. The programme’s blend of personal narrative, professional insight and open dialogue reinforced the value of visibility, support networks and cross-sector collaboration.
The event closed with the much-anticipated announcement of Ground Engineering magazine’s Top 20 Women in Ground Engineering 2025, celebrating outstanding contributions to the profession – a fitting highlight to an afternoon dedicated to recognition and inspiration.
As the ground engineering community looks ahead, WiGeotech has firmly established itself as an essential forum for fostering inclusion, championing talent and shaping the next generation of leaders in geotechnics.
Further photos from the day are available in the Members Area
