ONE of the driving forces behind Herefordshire’s NMiTE project has been recognised for her work, reaching the finals of the FDM everywoman in Technology Awards.

Professor Elena Rodriguez-Falcon, President and Chief Executive of NMITE, has been announced as finalist in the Academic Award category.

This recognises women in academia who have made an outstanding contribution to technology and science and whose work has made or has the potential to make a significant long-term impact in STEM.

The awards shine a spotlight on the industry’s most exceptional talent from the UK and beyond, providing an opportunity to celebrate individuals at all stages of their career.

An everywoman spokesperson said there has been an increase in women entering senior roles in technology over the last 10 years, but there remains much work still to be done, with only 12.6% of board level roles currently held by women.

"We need more role models whose achievements will encourage other women to pursue a career in technology," a spokesperson said.

"Increasing the number of women working in IT could generate an extra £2.6 billion a year for the UK’s economy, which is why these Awards are so important.

"The finalists for the 10th annual FDM everywoman in Technology Awards, in association with The Tech She Can Charter, have been announced."

This year’s finalists will join everywoman’s alumnus of more than 350 incredible women in technology, from school students to CEOs.