CIBSE Young Engineers Awards Winners 2026

Aretha Ahunanya is a Graduate Sustainable Design Consultant at Savills, having worked across ESG, sustainability and social value in the built environment. Since graduating from UCL’s multidisciplinary MEng Engineering & Architectural Design course, she has delivered complex decarbonisation strategies, building performance analysis, social impact frameworks and internal sustainability tools across a range of development and retrofit projects.

Beyond consultancy, Aretha is a Trustee of Open City, where she supports programmes that broaden access to built environment education and careers, particularly for young people from underrepresented backgrounds. She has presented research internationally, spoken at industry panels and educational events, and is committed to helping shape truly positive outcomes for both people and the planet.

Athiya Junaid is a Graduate Project Manager at WSP UAE, who has graduated with Honours in Architectural Engineering from Heriot-Watt University and is passionate about advancing sustainable, digitally enabled and high-performance building design across the built environment. . She currently supports the delivery of strategic government-led infrastructure projects in Abu Dhabi, with a focus on project controls, technical coordination, innovation and the implementation of digital solutions that enhance project delivery.

Passionate about sustainable and high-performance buildings, Athiya’s academic research explored passive cooling strategies within the Middle Eastern context, utilising building performance simulation tools including IES-VE modelling and CFD analysis to investigate climate-responsive design solutions.
 
At WSP, Athiya is actively driving digital transformation initiatives through the development and implementation of AI-enabled workflows, Power BI dashboards, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) processes and BIM methodologies to improve collaboration, efficiency and decision-making across project teams. Her multidisciplinary background and interest in sustainable engineering allow her to bridge technical innovation with practical project delivery.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Athiya is deeply committed to inspiring and developing the next generation of engineers. She actively contributes to the CIBSE Young Engineers Network (MENA), while also leading initiatives to provide interns at WSP with a holistic and meaningful early-career experience. She has mentored students through the Design Engineer Construct! (DEC) "Class of Your Own" programme, supporting young learners in developing engineering design proposals and discovering careers within the built environment.
 
Athiya's contributions to sustainability and engineering advocacy have been recognised through numerous accolades, including being named to the CIBSE 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 (Wildcard Category), shortlisted as a finalist for the CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year Award 2025, receiving the Society of Digital Engineering's Up and Coming Digital Champion Award 2025, and being selected for the CIBSE 30 Under 30 Class of 2026 in the Digital & Automation Champion category. She has also contributed to the Emirates Green Building Council's Sustainable School Building Guidance in partnership with UNESCO and was selected as a Youth Delegate to the Sixteenth IRENA General Assembly.
 
Through her technical expertise, leadership and dedication to empowering others, Athiya continues to advocate for a more sustainable, innovative and inclusive future for the building services profession.

Kawtar Houbad is a mechanical engineer and sustainability performance professional working at the intersection of decarbonisation, data, and engineering delivery. She holds an MRes in Molecular Engineering from Imperial College London, awarded with Distinction, and a First Class BEng in Mechanical Engineering from Lancaster University, where she was named Best Female Engineering Student 2021/22.

At Cundall, she led the end-to-end development of an AI-powered platform that used large language models to extract and standardise Environmental Product Declaration data at scale, peer-reviewed research published and presented at the CIBSE Symposium 2026 and at CIBSE's Technology and Innovation Conference. She is a member of the CIBSE Data and Benchmark Embodied Carbon Steering Group and the Homes for the Future interest group.

Kawtar has since worked in social housing decarbonisation at Metropolitan Thames Valley, contributing to national retrofit delivery across a 68,000-property portfolio, and has recently joined Peabody as a Data Architect, applying AI and governed data architecture to services for over 100,000 households.

Khaled Alqaisi is an Electrical Engineering graduate of Mutah University (ABET-accredited) and an emerging leader in sustainable infrastructure and smart mobility. He currently serves as an Associate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Design Engineer at Parsons in Abu Dhabi, where he contributes to major smart-city and sustainability-focused megaprojects across the region.

Khaled's international academic experience includes being selected as the top candidate for a fully funded Erasmus+ semester at the University of Lincoln, UK, where he deepened his expertise in sustainability, smart energy systems, and carbon neutrality. He previously served as a Project Coordinator at the Jordan Green Building Council (JGBC), supporting initiatives such as a national Climate Action Roadmap for Jordan's building sector and a Life-Cycle Assessment market enhancement programme. He holds a LEED Green Associate credential and has completed Certified Energy Manager (CEM) training, underscoring his dedication to advancing sustainable design practice.

As President of the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) student chapter at Mutah University, Khaled led projects on carbon and water savings and awareness campaigns, earning recognition as AEE Outstanding Student Chapter Member and receiving the AEE Foundation Scholarship, one of only 47 awarded worldwide. His graduation project, modelling and optimizing a solar-driven green hydrogen system using real-time LabVIEW control, was recognized with Jordan's Best Poster Award and published in the Distributed Generation and Alternative Energy Journal.

Combining technical rigor with a passion for sustainability, Khaled continues to build a career at the intersection of energy, smart infrastructure, and the future of transportation.

Khanyiso graduated from Heriot-Watt University with a First-Class MEng in Chemical Engineering and currently works as a Graduate Engineer at FairHeat. She’s passionate about sustainability, ethical engineering and community engagement. She has the unique set of skills and interests which combine technical analysis with a commitment to improving outcomes for residents, promoting diversity within the profession and supporting the next generation of engineers.

In under a year at FairHeat, Khanyiso has delivered work to over 50 heat network sites across the UK, contributing to optimisation, decarbonisation and compliance projects. Alongside her technical work, she actively supports STEM outreach, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and professional engagement activities.

My journey to becoming both an Olympian and an Engineer began in Plymouth in 2014, where I attended Plymouth College Boarding School before completing an undergraduate degree in Architectural Engineering at Plymouth University. While the Olympics had been a dream of mine since childhood, I was equally determined to build a career outside of the pool and always prioritised my education alongside elite sport. Although balancing international competition, training camps and academic commitments demanded strong time management and resilience, I found the combination incredibly rewarding, with success in each area often reinforcing the other. The Architectural Engineering degree exposed me to a broad range of disciplines within the construction industry and ultimately helped me discover my passion for building performance, energy and sustainability. During this period, I also became European Champion and represented Team GB at the World Championships, Commonwealth Games and Tokyo Olympic Games, where I placed 10th in the 200m Butterfly.
In 2022, I joined Loughborough University to undertake the MSc Net Zero Building Services Engineering programme under the supervision of Professor Mahroo Eftekhari, while simultaneously training within the Aquatics GB High Performance Centre. The course deepened my technical understanding of building services design, building performance and the transition to a low-carbon built environment, while reinforcing my desire to pursue a career within the profession. My final thesis focused on the decarbonisation of swimming pools, allowing me to combine my sporting background with my professional interests. Through this research, I identified a threefold challenge facing the sector: an ageing building stock that drives excessive operational energy consumption, limited research and innovation surrounding swimming pool HVAC systems, and a lack of comprehensive guidance governing the design and operation of these facilities. Given the continuing closure of pools across the UK due to rising energy costs, I became increasingly motivated by the potential impact that better engineering solutions could have on preserving community assets and reducing carbon emissions. Alongside my academic development, my sporting career reached new heights, with achievements including becoming a World Champion, two-time European Champion, double Commonwealth medallist, triple British Champion, two-time Olympian and Olympic finalist. The MSc also marked the beginning of my involvement with CIBSE. I became a Student Member and regularly used CIBSE guidance, standards and technical publications throughout my studies, developing an appreciation for the institution's role in supporting excellence across the building services profession.
Following graduation, I joined WSP in September 2025 as a Graduate Engineer within the Building Performance Group, where I work on a range of sustainability, energy and decarbonisation projects across the built environment. Alongside my technical work, I remain passionate about using my unique experience as both an Olympian and an engineer to advocate for STEM education and the building services profession. Through outreach activities, engagement with students and young athletes, and public speaking opportunities, I aim to demonstrate that excellence in sport and engineering can coexist and that the skills developed through one can strengthen the other. As I continue working towards professional registration and greater involvement with CIBSE, I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable built environment while acting as a positive ambassador for the profession and encouraging the next generation of engineers to pursue careers that make a tangible difference to society.

Sasha joined FairHeat as a Graduate Engineer in 2024 after completing her Master’s in Chemical Engineering at UCL. Having previously interned with the company, she returned with a strong understanding of FairHeat’s culture, values, and commitment to delivering high-quality, low-carbon heat network solutions.
Sasha’s commitment to inclusive leadership began at university, where she held several senior roles, including President of UCL's largest women’s society and Women’s Officer, serving on the Students’ Union executive board. At FairHeat, she has continued this passion by co-founding FairREACH, an employee-led committee dedicated to supporting, celebrating, and empowering colleagues from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Drawn to FairHeat’s innovative approach to decarbonisation, Sasha has embraced the opportunity to contribute to the development of sustainable heating solutions and play an active role in the growing heat network sector. As she approaches the end of her graduate scheme, she looks forward to continuing her professional development and building on the opportunities FairHeat has provided.

Sebastian Taylor Aguilar is an Intermediate Building Services Engineer at MCA Consulting Engineers. He achieved a First-Class Honours through a Building Services degree apprenticeship (BEng) at London South Bank University, presenting his major project research at the CIBSE Technical Symposium 2026. Sebastian has led MEP design on residential and commercial schemes. He is a certified CIBSE Low Carbon Consultant and particularly enjoys working on projects with net‑zero carbon targets. He is MCA’s Young Professional Ambassador, a role which enables him to mentor work experience placements and attend careers fairs. He also enjoys supporting G4C Sussex as a Committee member by helping to organize events for young professionals in the construction industry. In his free time, he serves as an Army Reservist with the Royal Engineers which enhances skills such as leadership, teamwork and resilience

Serra is a Junior Building Physics & Sustainability Consultant at HTA Design, with a background in architecture and an MSc in Environmental Design and Engineering from University College London. Passionate about bridging the gap between design and engineering, she works to create sustainable, healthy and inclusive buildings through performance-led design. Serra is also actively involved in the wider engineering community through the CIBSE YEN London Committee and ENGRL: Girls in Engineering, supporting knowledge sharing and diversity within the profession.

Yuill Petrie graduated from Heriot-Watt University in 2025 with a First Class Honours MEng (Hons) in Architectural Engineering, a CIBSE-accredited degree. During his studies, he received the Architectural Engineering Industry Advisory Panel Prize 2024 and was shortlisted for CIBSE Undergraduate of the Year 2025, recognising his academic excellence and contribution to the built environment sector.

Following a successful internship with Cundall, Yuill joined the company as a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, where he is developing innovative and sustainable engineering solutions for the built environment. Alongside his professional role, he remains actively involved in the industry and serves as CIBSE YEN Scotland Lead Technical Coordinator for 2026, supporting the development of emerging engineering talent across Scotland.

George is an Undergraduate BEMS Engineer at InTandem Systems, where he is developing practical expertise in Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) and intelligent building controls. Working across live projects, he has gained experience in control strategy development, system commissioning, graphics design, fault finding, and building control panel assembly, building a strong understanding of how effective controls improve building performance, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort.
Alongside his technical responsibilities, George is passionate about developing others and promoting careers within building services engineering. He has mentored apprentices, T Level students, and new starters, providing technical guidance and helping them build confidence as they begin their careers. He has also designed and delivered internal training sessions, supporting the development of colleagues across the business.

Committed to inspiring the next generation of engineers, George has created and delivered interactive STEM Taster Days that introduce young people to engineering through practical activities, including manufacturing, engineering design, controls software, and building controls technology. These hands-on experiences aim to increase awareness of careers in BEMS and encourage more young people to consider opportunities within the building services sector.
George's commitment to industry engagement has led to his appointment as a BCIA Young Engineers Network (YEN) Ambassador. In this role, he actively promotes careers in building controls, shares his experiences with students and early-career engineers, and champions the vital role that BEMS plays in delivering smarter, more sustainable buildings.

With a passion for intelligent buildings, low-carbon engineering, and professional development, George is committed to continuing his growth within the building services profession while helping to inspire and support the next generation of engineers.

Jamison has just graduated from the University of the West of England, studying Architecture and Environmental Engineering. During his studies, he became particularly interested in passive strategies for moderating building environments. Jamison is excited to have secured a graduate role as an electrical engineer with Arup in their Bristol office.

Precious is a graduate in Architectural Environmental Engineering from the University of Nottingham, with a strong interest in sustainable energy, climate policy and the transition to net zero. Her dissertation, Nigeria's Electricity Sector at a Crossroads: A Scenario Analysis of Universal Access, Emissions Reduction, and the Feasibility of Net-Zero by 2060, explored how Nigeria can meet its growing energy demands while reducing emissions and improving access to reliable electricity.
Her research combined a comprehensive literature review, policy analysis and scenario modelling to investigate the roles of natural gas, renewable energy and energy storage within Nigeria’s transition towards its 2060 net-zero target.
Alongside her academic work, Precious completed an industrial placement at Foster + Partners, where she gained experience within a leading international architectural and engineering practice. She will soon begin her career as a Graduate Sustainability Consultant at Buro Happold, where she hopes to contribute to practical solutions for a more equitable and sustainable built environment for all. 
Outside of academics, Precious enjoys Art, Fashion, and Language Learning; immersing oneself in others' cultures is of great interest to her, having also undertaken Korean during her Undergraduate study, alongside achieving A2-B1 Level German.

Nadia is a Building Services Engineering Apprentice at Hawden-MEP, where she is developing experience across both mechanical and electrical disciplines while studying for an HNC in Building Services Engineering. Since joining the company in 2024 through her T Level industry placement, she has contributed to residential, education and commercial projects, with particular experience in thermal modelling, overheating assessments and lighting design. Passionate about understanding how buildings perform, she enjoys combining engineering with digital technologies and aspires to become a well-rounded Building Services Engineer, helping deliver more efficient, sustainable buildings.

My name is Austin, and I'm a Level 4 Building Services Engineering Apprentice working as an Electrical M&E Estimator. I've been in this role for the past two years while studying at the City of Westminster College. During my apprenticeship, I've gained experience estimating electrical building services projects and developing my technical knowledge of the industry. I'm passionate about continuing to develop my skills, learning from experienced engineers and building a successful career within the building services industry.

Bekim Fejzullai is an Assistant Vertical Transportation Consultant based in Birmingham, specialising in the
design, lift assessment, modernisation, and management of lift and escalator systems across a diverse
range of building sectors. He works closely with NHS Trusts, building managers, architects, engineers,
contractors, property owners, and facilities management teams to deliver safe, efficient, and compliant
vertical transportation solutions that meet both operational and long-term asset management objectives.
Bekim has successfully completed his Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in building services
(electrical) and passed the associated End Point Assessment (EPA) through CIBSE, demonstrating a strong
foundation in engineering principles and professional competence. Further strengthening his industry
knowledge, he has completed the LEIA Distance Learning Programme and achieved the EOR202
qualification, reflecting his commitment to continuous professional development and technical
excellence within the vertical transportation industry.

Professionally registered as an Engineering Technician (EngTech) and is LCIBSE with the Chartered
Institute of Building Services Engineers. Bekim combines technical expertise with a practical and
collaborative approach to consultancy. His experience includes supporting clients throughout the project
lifecycle, from condition surveys, asset assessments, and modernisation strategies to specification
development, procurement support, and project delivery.
Known for his attention to detail, strong communication skills, and client-focused mindset, Bekim takes
pride in building effective working relationships and delivering solutions that improve building
performance, reliability, accessibility, and passenger experience. He remains committed to staying at the
forefront of industry best practice and emerging technologies, helping clients maximise the value, safety,
and longevity of their vertical transportation assets. He is committed to continuous learning and
professional growth, with the ambition of becoming a recognised expert within the vertical
transportation industry and contributing to its future development through innovation, best practice, and
technical excellence.

Melissa Riggs EngTech LCIBSE has 4 years experience in the building services industry and is currently completing her Level 6 Building Services Engineering apprenticeship as a Technician Engineer at Troup Bywaters + Anders LLP and London South Bank University.  

Harvey Dean is an Assistant Electrical Engineer in Arup’s Property, Science & Industry team in London UK and is currently in the fourth year of his Building Services Engineering Design degree apprenticeship. Since joining Arup in 2022, he has contributed to a wide range of projects, developing technical expertise in electrical building services design while balancing academic achievement with practical experience.

Harvey has worked on projects including 99 City Road, where he supported the design and rationalisation of LV electrical infrastructure, and has recently gained exposure to HV and MV systems, protection studies and network design. These experiences have sparked a particular interest in electrical protection systems and power distribution resilience.

Known for his positive and collaborative approach, Harvey is keen to learn from colleagues, contribute to project success and continually develop his technical and professional capabilities. Outside of work, he plays rugby for his local club and enjoys staying active through training and sport.

An Apprentice Building Physicist at Stantec studying BSc Mechanical Engineering. Since joining the apprenticeship programme in 2023, he has contributed to a range of projects including Net Zero Carbon schools, residential developments, and the Grade I listed National Museum Cardiff redevelopment. Through his work, he has developed expertise in building performance, energy modelling, and sustainable design. Passionate about tackling the challenges of the built environment, he is committed to delivering practical low-carbon solutions and driving the transition to a more sustainable future.