Judges named Sana Hafsa the CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year, after her engaging presentation on inspiring engineers to work collaboratively and holistically to deliver high performance buildings. Sana is an architectural engineering graduate, currently working with AESG to deliver sustainable and smart megaprojects in the Middle East and North Africa region. Sana studied at Heriot Watt University, where she was a team leader of an intercultural group of over 100 students who designed and constructed an integrative home for the Solar Decathlon 2021.

The Apprentice of the Year Degree (level 5-7) went to Louis Kimber, with Harvey Hudson scooping the corresponding award for Apprentice of the Year Technician (level 3-5). These awards recognise the invaluable contribution made by apprentices in building services engineering and related occupations. The award is split in two to recognise apprentices at every level, celebrating those who have gained their skills and knowledge through a combination of coursework and on the job experience.

Kevin Mitchell, CIBSE President opened the YEAs, praising the dynamism, commitment and engagement demonstrated by those shortlisted. Sharing his experience of being named the first ever CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year in 1996, Kevin emphasised the role of these awards as a driving force in his early career.

“It is certainly my experience that recognition at the early stages of your career can act as a motivator, contributing to a feeling of being valued, inspired, and supported within your field. My employer provided me with opportunities, just as our shortlisted employers are making a difference to their graduates and apprentices.”

Six employers were shortlisted for the CIBSE Employer of the Year award, recognising their commitment to supporting and developing young engineers.

Employers are asked to demonstrate how they place young engineers at the centre of their business and invest in their career progression, with clear strategies for recruiting, nurturing, and empowering them.

FairHeat were named the overall winner, along with winning the small company category. CPW and AECOM received awards for the medium and large company categories respectively.

The awards took place on 11 October 2022 at the RIBA, London.