RMIT University has recognised talented British engineer Dame Judith Hackitt for her outstanding contributions to the engineering profession.

Hackett was awarded the Doctor of Science honoris causa for her work in advancing public health and safety and as an advocate for young women in STEM.

Hackitt notably led the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety commissioned by the UK government following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.

RMIT Vice-Chancellor and President, Martin Bean said Hackitt’s ongoing work in the building and construction industry had changed contemporary engineering and advanced the health and safety of the profession.

“Her commitment to the community and her drive for positive change has made a lasting impact on public safety and health and has helped shape the world for the better,” he said.

“We are proud to recognise Judith’s many outstanding achievements and pleased to welcome another exceptional woman in STEM to the RMIT community.”

Hackitt visited Australia in February last year as a guest of RMIT’s School of Property, Construction and Project Management, presenting to industry, government and community representatives.

Personal mission to make buildings safer

Hackett looks forward to returning to Melbourne in the future.

“I am truly honoured to receive this Honorary Doctorate from RMIT and so sorry that I could not be there in person to receive it,” she said.

“My personal mission – to make buildings safer for everyone who lives in them – continues here in the UK and in Australia.”

Hackitt has a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Imperial College London, is a Fellow of both the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Chemical Engineers and has an Honorary Fellowship from the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

In 2006 she was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to health and safety, and in 2016, Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) New Year Honours for services to engineering and health and safety.

She previously chaired the UK Health and Safety Executive for nine years during which time she led significant changes to tackle systemic risk in the industry and improve public health in the UK.

Currently, she is the Chair of MAKE UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, and Non-Executive Director of both the High Value Manufacturing Catapult and the High Speed Railway 2 Ltd, United Kingdom.