The shortlisted nominees for the 2026 STEM Awards have been announced, with the winners set to be revealed at a special celebration on 20 November at Leeds Marriott Hotel.
The STEM Awards, hosted by the STEM Hub and delivered by RTC North, celebrate STEM Ambassadors, STEM Teachers, organisations and initiatives that make an exceptional contribution to STEM.
The awards recognise the passion, commitment and impact of those who dedicate their time to inspiring the next generation, raising aspirations and helping young people discover the opportunities a future in STEM can offer.
We are proud to announce the following individuals and companies who have been shortlisted in the following categories.
2026 Shortlisted Nominees
STEM Ambassador Award
- Darren Lyall
- Peter Williams
- Nicola Wallis
- Alexandra Lawson
- Michael Pain
- Laura Smith
- Sharry-Ann Bonnar
- Kazeem Muti
- Ashleigh Cane
- Rhianna Ord
- Hannah Wright
- Paula McMahon
- Stephen Denniss
Climate Ambassador Award
- Anne Carhill
- Kim Lawler
- Tamma Carel
- Julieta Cumplido
Space Inspirations Ambassador Award
- Viktor Doychinov
- Sophie Crabtree
- Khurram Hussain
- Victoria Fawcett
STEM Educator Award
- Liam Johnson
- Rosey Pritchard
- Gemma Robson
STEMpact Initiative Award
- Ahead Partnership - Girl Tech
- Barnsley Council Collaboration
- Laura Wood (Accenture)
- Emma Meggeson (Cummins)
STEM Icon of the Year
- Harry Bottomley
- Nkeonye Akumah
- Chris McLaughlin
- Alex Lawson
Sustainability Spearhead Award
- Northern Gas Networks
- Network Rail
- Yorkshire Water
- SRM
Tech Innovation Award
- Accenture
- Phoenix Software
- Boulby Underground
- Waterstons
Engineering Excellence Award
- Mott MacDonald Bentley
- Slipstream Engineering Design
- Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK
- Cummins
Space Pioneer Award
- Space Hub Yorkshire
- AcornITy
- Airbus
- 3s Northumbria Ltd
Science Trailblazer Award
- National Physical Laboratory
- Solenis
- Northumbria Water
- Fujifilm
Although each award recognises a different area of achievement, every nominee shares a commitment to advancing STEM across the North East and Yorkshire and Humber regions. Their work is helping to inspire future talent, strengthen STEM education and drive positive change across the sector.
Dawn Ross, Liaison Coordinator at the STEM Hub, said:
“It’s wonderful to see the companies and STEM Ambassadors we work with being recognised and celebrated for their achievements. Their passion and commitment to inspiring the next generation make a real difference, and the STEM Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate their contributions and say thank you.”
Find out more about the STEM Awards and purchase tickets at stem-hub.co.uk/stem-awards/
