Women & rising stars honoured at 2025 TechWorks Awards gala
The UK's deep tech sector gathered in London this week for the 2025 TechWorks Awards & Gala Dinner. The event recognised achievement, innovation, and leadership across the nation's technology industry.
More than 300 industry professionals attended the black-tie evening at the Royal Lancaster Hotel. Guests included leaders from established companies, start-ups, investors, researchers, and representatives from government and the public sector. The event brought together a broad cross-section of the UK tech community.
Recognising Women in Tech
This year the Women in TechWorks Awards debuted. The new award aims to celebrate women in technology at all career levels. Jennifer Walls received the inaugural award. Her achievement drew attention to diversity and inclusion across the sector.
Organisers introduced the initiative to encourage recognition of the contributions women make to deep tech. Diversity in leadership remains a focus for many businesses in the industry.
Celebrating Emerging Talent
Sam Kennedy received the UKESF Scholar of the Year Award. TechWorks recognised Kennedy's academic achievements and contributions to engineering. The award highlighted the important role of new talent in the field.
Henry Richards from Plessey received the Young Engineer of the Year Award. The judges cited his innovative engineering work and positive impact on the industry. Richards becomes the latest recipient of an award aimed at supporting early-career engineers.
Industry Leadership and Innovation
Smith Optical took home the ChipStart of the Year Award. The company impressed judges with its entrepreneurial approach. Smith Optical has translated semiconductor technology into commercial products.
Bal Panaser received the Contribution to Industry Award. The award acknowledged Panaser's influence and leadership. His work has strengthened the UK tech community over a sustained period.
Sector Unity and Future Focus
The awards evening provided a forum for networking as well as celebration. Attendees included engineers, business leaders, academics, and entrepreneurs. The event brought together some of the leading voices in UK technology.
Charles Sturman, CEO of TechWorks, commented on the significance of the awards for the sector. "The TechWorks Awards are an opportunity to shine a light on the talent, innovation, and leadership that make the UK a global leader in deep tech. This year's winners demonstrate not only outstanding technical achievement but also commitment to shaping the future of our industry," said Sturman.
