Romilly Madew AO has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree in recognition of her significant contributions to engineering and sustainable development. The ceremony took place on October 20, 2023, at the University of Sydney, where she was celebrated for her leadership in promoting sustainability in the built environment.
Celebrating a Visionary Leader
During the ceremony, Professor Stephen Garton, Pro-Chancellor of the university, along with Professor Hesham El Gamal, Dean of Engineering, highlighted Ms Madew’s pivotal role in positioning engineering as a crucial element for Australia’s future prosperity. Professor El Gamal stated, “Her leadership has been instrumental in positioning engineering as a key driver of Australia’s future prosperity, particularly in the context of climate change, urbanisation, and the transition to a low-carbon economy.”
Ms Madew’s career reflects a steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable practices within the construction sector. As the former CEO of the Green Building Council of Australia, she championed green building initiatives that transformed industry standards. Under her leadership, the Council’s Green Star rating system became the benchmark for sustainability, influencing the design, construction, and operation of buildings and communities across the nation.
Commitment to Women in Engineering
In addition to her contributions to engineering, Romilly Madew has been an advocate for increasing the participation of women in the industry. Her efforts focus on creating equitable opportunities and enhancing the representation of women in leadership roles. This commitment aligns with her broader goal of driving innovation and diversity in engineering.
As the CEO of Infrastructure Australia, Ms Madew integrated sustainability principles into infrastructure planning, laying essential groundwork for resilient future policies and practices. Her influence extends beyond engineering; she is also a co-founder and director of the Minerva Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to mentoring professional sportswomen through development programs and scholarships.
In recognition of her distinguished service to the construction sector, Ms Madew was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2019. This honor underscores her role as a change agent committed to sustainable building practices.
Romilly Madew continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and professionals through her advocacy for sustainability and education. Her leadership serves as a beacon for those who aspire to make meaningful contributions to the engineering field and the environment.
