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.

10,100+
attendees
18
years
281
Winners
1
amazing legacy

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