Wales honors STEM leaders across industry and education

Wales’ science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) sector demonstrated its depth and forward-thinking approach at the sixth annual Wales STEM Awards, held for the first time at Techniquest in Cardiff. The event adopted a fresh format, combining celebration, professional networking, and interactive displays to spotlight advancements across industry, education, and community-driven initiatives.

The awards ceremony honored 15 winners across key categories, including technology, education, and sustainability. MeOmics Precision Medicine secured the Innovation in STEM Award, while Nellie Technologies earned the STEM Company of the Year (under 50 employees) title. NOVA Outreach Ltd was named Start-up of the Year, and The Big Science Project received the newly introduced STEM Community Impact Award for expanding practical STEM engagement.

Educational programs also received recognition. Theatr na nÓg’s Dal y Gwynt won the Educational Programme of the Year (Not-for-profit) category, while e-sgol’s The Science Project and Wynne Construction’s Maths in the Workplace took the Public Sector and Private Sector awards, respectively. The University of South Wales achieved two victories: its Building Wales’s Future Space and Edge AI Capability program earned the Shaping the Future Award, and its Applied Sciences team was named Team of the Year.

Individual accomplishments were celebrated through several honors. Emma Wride of AstroCymru received the Woman of the Year award, Nirmani Fonseka of Ogi was named Rising Star of the Year, and Josephine Grech of Cardiff and Vale College won Ambassador of the Year. Nightingale HQ took the Sustainability Award, and Dr Geertje Van Keulen of Swansea University was given a Special Recognition Award for her contributions to microbial biochemistry, public outreach, and advancing women in STEM fields.

Awards reflect Wales’ collaborative STEM spirit

The judging committee highlighted the outstanding quality of submissions, noting that winners represented varied stages and disciplines within STEM—from early-stage ventures to long-standing institutions. Martin McHugh, who chaired the panel, stressed the sector’s shared dedication to innovation, collaboration, skills development, and widening participation across all levels.

This year’s event introduced a new approach, shifting from a traditional awards ceremony to an immersive experience at Techniquest, a science discovery center. The change aimed to reflect the hands-on, collaborative nature of STEM work while strengthening community ties. The awards were organized jointly by Grapevine Event Management and jamjar, with Cardiff Metropolitan University serving as the headline sponsor. Additional backing came from Wynne Jones IP and Sony UK TEC, each supporting specific categories.

Honors spotlight public engagement and equity

Dr Van Keulen’s honor demonstrated the awards’ emphasis on long-term influence. As an Associate Professor in Microbial Biochemistry, she leads research on antimicrobial resistance and sustainable methods while actively promoting gender equality in science through initiatives like Soapbox Science Swansea. Her efforts connect academic work with public involvement, a theme shared by many of this year’s honorees.

Organizers noted that the diverse range of winners, from precision medicine firms to educational projects, illustrated the strength of Wales’ STEM network. Liz Brookes, a co-founder of the awards, observed that submissions revealed a sector driven by ambition and cooperation, tackling challenges from skills gaps to industry transformation.

STEM Untapped CIC earned the STEM Collaboration of the Year for its work connecting underrepresented groups to industry opportunities. The organization partners with businesses, educators, and community groups to create pathways into STEM careers, particularly for women, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities. Its initiatives include mentorship programs, skills workshops, and employer engagement campaigns designed to address long-standing barriers in access and representation. Judges praised its ability to bridge gaps between education and industry, noting its impact on workforce development and social inclusion.