Dilani Selvanathan, a Junior Software Engineer working for a Cranfield based company, Herotech8, has been announced as one of  six finalists for the Institute of Engineering and Technology’s (IET) Young Woman Engineer of the Year 2021. 

These prestigious engineering industry awards celebrate women working in modern engineering – and aim to help change the perception that engineering is predominantly a career for men by banishing outdated engineering stereotypes of hard hats and dirty overalls.

Dilani recently completed a Software Engineering Degree Apprenticeship with the BBC, before joining Herotech8 in June, where she works alongside the technical delivery team to support the growing technical requirements of this innovative and growing drone services company.

“I am delighted to be shortlisted for this award.” says Dilani.  “My family come from Sri Lanka where opportunities like this, especially for women, are very limited.  I hope that this experience helps me in my goal to promote STEM opportunities for women worldwide, as well as back here in the UK.”

Dilani is a STEM Ambassador and took part in the STEMazing programme, giving online interactive sessions to primary schools. She is also a WISE role model (Women in Science and Engineering), promoting young women in STEM.

In addition to her shortlisting for this award, Dilani has also secured STEM Inspiration Technician 2020 award for her work in helping to inspire the next generation.  She was also awarded London regional winner of the Royal Navy Award for Higher/Degree Apprentice of the Year.

The winner of the IET awards will be announced at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday, 2 December at 7pm.  We wish Dilani the very best of luck!