GE Awards: A message from the editor | What are the judges looking for?

This year we have 22 different categories for you to choose from. They cover innovative projects and solutions, as well as forward-thinking geotechnical companies and individuals. In addition, all finalists will be in the running for the Editor's Award.

The GE Awards includes the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was introduced last year. The award aims to recognise an inspirational leader and influential engineer who has made a significant strategic contribution to the field of geotechnics. We always encourage entries from under-represented groups within engineering!

As a new addition, this year we have grouped five categories under the umbrella of GE Workforce Awards. These include the Rising Star and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champion, as well as three brand-new categories that recognise great employers. Companies can now win an award for Excellence in Learning and Development, Excellence in Outreach and the Graduate Programme of the Year.

***Entry deadline: Friday 19 January 2024***

But what are the judges looking for?

• It might sound simple, but the first tip is to make sure you enter the right category. Thoroughly read the descriptions for all the award categories that catch your eye before making your choice.
• To be shortlisted, your entry also needs to address all the key criteria that are listed. If you miss one out, you might lose some points and a place as a finalist.
• Write your entry in an engaging, readable and accessible way. Not everyone works in the same sector as you do, so make things are clear as possible. Maybe have a colleague from a different department check the entry before submitting it?
• Innovations should be truly innovative. You will be judged by industry leaders with good memories, who will know if something is truly new and exciting.
• Sustainability initiatives should be properly green. No greenwashing allowed – again, your peers will be able to spot if any information seems misleading.
• Substance should go over style. Some people are natural communicators and presenters, but in the end, content is what matters.

While our shortlists might seem long, no one is guaranteed a spot as a finalist and many fall short.

However, don’t be disheartened if you didn’t get shortlisted or win last year – just make sure you follow the above tips for 2024.

If something is unclear, please get in touch with us before submitting your entry.

Nia Kajastie, editor, Ground Engineering

If you need help with your entry or require any clarification, please contact Elijah Blunt on +44 (0) 020 3953 2197 or email elijah.blunt@emap.com

The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, London on 19 June 2024.

The Ground Engineering Awards team