Celebrating a century: Dr. Elizabeth Laverick, trailblazer in engineering

Born in Amersham, United Kingdom, in 1925, Elizabeth Laverick showed early promise in science and mathematics. She attended Dr. Challoner’s Grammar School, excelling in physics, maths, French and English, and was ready for university by 16. After a year working at the Radio Research Station in Slough, she earned a bursary to study physics and radio at Durham University - where she was the only woman in her honours class. She graduated in 1946 and went on to become the first woman at Durham to earn a PhD in a scientific discipline, specialising in audio frequency dielectric measurements.

Her early career took her into the heart of Britain’s post-war technological innovation. At GEC Stanmore, she worked as a microwave engineer, often climbing aerials and conducting field trials. She later joined Elliott Brothers, where she led radar research and became Technical Director - an exceptional achievement for a woman in the 1960s.

In 1971, Laverick made history again when she became the first female Deputy Secretary of the IEE. In this role, she oversaw key areas including university accreditation, technical standards, and ethical practice. Her leadership helped shape the Institute’s modern professional framework and opened doors for greater inclusion in engineering.

Laverick was also a passionate advocate for women in science and engineering. She served as President of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) from 1967 to 1969 and chaired the Institute of Physics’ Women in Physics Committee. She played a key role in organising the International Conferences of Women Engineers and Scientists and mentored countless women entering the profession.

Despite working in male-dominated environments, Laverick often downplayed the barriers she faced. “I was naive enough not to think it was odd,” she once said of being the only woman in her degree programme. Yet she acknowledged the challenges many women encountered and worked tirelessly to create more equitable opportunities.

Her career was marked by ingenuity and quiet determination. From pioneering radar systems to advocating for ethical engineering, Laverick’s work left a lasting mark. She was elected Fellow of the IEE, the Institute of Physics, and the IEEE - in recognition of her technical excellence and leadership.

As we celebrate the centenary of her birth, we honour Dr. Elizabeth Laverick not only for her achievements, but for the path she paved for others. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a profession - and on the people who follow in their footsteps.