17 June 2026 | JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel
GE Awards history
Welcome to the Hall of fame for the Ground Engineering Awards. Here, we honour the outstanding individuals who have shaped and inspired our industry through their dedication, innovation, and leadership. From trailblazing engineers to groundbreaking pioneers, our Lifetime Achievement Award winners represent the very best of ground engineering.
As we look back on the history of the GE Awards, explore key stats and milestones that highlight the evolution of the event, the projects that have transformed our industry, and the people who have driven it forward.
2008
The Beginning of Greatness
The Ground Engineering Awards launch as a lunchtime event with just 8 unique categories. From the start, the awards shine a spotlight on the very best in geotechnical engineering.2009–2011
Building Momentum
Year after year, the GE Awards grow in popularity, cementing their place as the central celebration for the ground engineering sector.2012
Expanding Horizons
Reflecting the sector’s innovation, 4 new categories are added, including the much-anticipated Editor’s Award — quickly becoming one of the most coveted honours.2015
Raising the Bar on Judging
For the first time, judging expands to include in-person assessments across a greater range of categories. A record 43 industry leaders join the judging panel, strengthening the awards’ credibility and prestige.2017
A Night to Remember
The GE Awards transition into an evening celebration, reflecting their growing significance and allowing more achievements to be recognised in true style.2019
Record-Breaking Attendance
Before the pandemic, the GE Awards hit a new high with over 800 geotechnical and construction specialists gathering — the biggest celebration in the event’s history to date.2020
Virtual but Unstoppable
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, the GE Awards went virtual for the very first time. Hosted by then Editor Nia Kajastie, the event proved that not even a global crisis could halt the celebration of industry excellence.2021
A Triumphant Return
Live and in person once again, the GE Awards came back with a sell-out venue and a long waiting list — proof of the industry’s resilience and passion for celebrating success together.2022
Back to Grosvenor House
The awards return to the iconic Grosvenor House Hotel, reconnecting with a venue that had hosted the ceremony in earlier years and providing the perfect backdrop for a night of inspiration.2024
Introducing the Workforce Awards
Alongside the GE Awards, the brand-new Workforce Awards are launched. These celebrate the people, organisations, and initiatives driving equality, diversity, inclusion, and talent development across the sector.Be part of ground engineering history, join the legacy
GE Awards 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner:
Hilary Skinner, technical director, Cowi
GE Awards 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner:
Dinesh Patel, fellow & director, Arup
GE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner:
Andrew Bond, founder, Geocentrix