The Francis Small Engineering New Zealand Foundation Award is presented annually to a recipient who has demonstrated the spirit of service to the engineering profession through their volunteer contributions. The $10,000 award is used to further the recipient's education or may be an onward donation to an organisation that supports engineering in Aotearoa.
Inaugural Francis Small Award Winner – Andrew Lamb
Andrew Lamb’s remarkable voluntary contributions to the engineering profession and his community exemplify the values celebrated by the Francis Small Award. Andrew has been a cornerstone of Engineering New Zealand’s Canterbury Branch, with 15 years of dedicated voluntary service. He has organised over 210 events and mentored countless peers. Perhaps most notable, however, was the crucial role he played as Branch chair during the Canterbury earthquakes, coordinating support for local engineers and liaising with Civil Defence, CERA and SCIRT, showcasing exceptional leadership during a critical time.
Andrew’s commitment extends to academia. He chairs the University of Canterbury’s Mechanical Engineering Industry Advisory Board, guides curriculum development and accreditation processes, mentors students and fosters industry connections.
Volunteering is more than just professional development for Andrew. Beyond engineering, his passion for volunteering is well-proven, coaching junior sports teams and supporting environmental and local community initiatives.
Andrew receives the inaugural Francis Small Award in recognition of his tireless voluntary efforts to strengthen the engineering profession within his community and across Aotearoa.
Formalising the Francis Small Award
Left to right: Derrick Adams, Sina Cotter Tait, Adrian Van Dyk, Josiah Simmonds, Glen Cornelius, Mike Ferrand, Duncan Small, Jamie Pye, Helen Davidson, Alexandra Hare, Richard Templer.
The Engineering New Zealand Foundation welcomed Duncan Small, on behalf of the Small family, on 19 August 2024 to put pen to paper, signing a memorandum of understanding for the Foundation to administer a yearly award in Francis Small's honour.
The Francis Small Engineering New Zealand Foundation Award will continue his legacy within the engineering profession, awarding $10,000 to one recipient annually who embodies the spirit of service within the engineering community through their volunteer contributions.
Each year's winner is presented with their award at the prestigious Fellows' Dinner.
Donating to the Engineering New Zealand Foundation is a great way to give back to the engineering community in Aotearoa. Your support is incredibly valuable and contributes towards a thriving profession.
