Meet the newest IET Honorary Fellows driving change
In November 2025, we welcomed our newest Honorary Fellows at a special event held at IET London: Savoy Place. The occasion marked the recognition of three outstanding individuals for their exceptional contributions to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as well as their leadership in equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
Among the recipients is British racing driver Nicolas Hamilton, honoured for his work in raising public understanding of STEM and championing inclusion in motorsport and beyond. Born with Cerebral Palsy and once told he would never walk, Nic defied expectations to become the first disabled athlete to compete in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Since his debut in 2011, he has continued to inspire, achieving personal bests and a career-high P6 finish at Donington Park in 2023. Off the track, Nic advocates for disability representation, working with charities such as Scope and Air Ambulances UK
Nic said: “To receive this Honorary Fellowship is incredible… My goal has always been to serve others and inspire the next generation to believe in what's possible. Disability is always at the forefront of my mind – and I hope this Fellowship stands as further proof that disabled individuals are valued.”
Also recognised is Dawn Bonfield MBE FREng, a distinguished materials engineer and leading EDI advocate. Dawn founded Towards Vision and the Magnificent Women social enterprise and created International Women in Engineering Day. She has held influential roles including President of the Women’s Engineering Society and served as President of the Commonwealth Engineers’ Council.
Dawn said: “Receiving this Honorary Fellowship is a real honour and joy… I’ve always admired the IET’s commitment to engineering with purpose and its leadership on equity, diversity and inclusion.”
The third recipient, David Parr, is a Chartered Engineer and IET Fellow with over four decades of engineering leadership. As Chair of the Professional Development Advisory Committee, he led the introduction of mandatory CPD in 2017. Now retired, David continues to support members as a volunteer advisor and mentor.
David said: “I’ve always preferred one-to-one support, tailoring guidance to help individuals achieve their personal best – and that, to me, is what truly matters.”
