The Princess Royal Award for Emerging Engineers: International final 2026

Rachel Woodward

Rachel is a third year PhD Researcher in Civil Engineering at Ulster University, specialising in low carbon cementitious materials for soil stabilisation applications via the deep soil mixing method. Her research focuses on developing innovative, low-carbon cementitious binder blends which can be compared to traditional binders commonly used within industry. She utilises waste valorisation within the alternative, low-carbon cementitious blends.

Before beginning her doctoral studies, Rachel gained hands on experience as a Site Engineer with GRAHAM Civil Engineering, working across major infrastructure projects including the A6 Castledawson to Randalstown Dualling Scheme (NI), Gloucester Energy from Waste Facility (England), Belfast Grand Central Station Enabling Works and Busway Bridge (NI) and the York Street Train Station Redevelopment (NI). She developed a strong foundation in construction management and on site problem solving, including surveying, setting out, coordinating subcontractors, and ensuring works were delivered safely, accurately, and in line with engineering specifications. This industry experience gives her a practical understanding of ground conditions, material behaviour, and construction constraints, which directly informs and strengthens her research into low carbon soil stabilisation.

Alex Soles

Alex Soles is a Civil and Geotechnical Engineer and Lecturer specialising in Military Engineering and geotechnics. He is a lecturer within the Royal School of Military Engineering, where he delivers civil engineering education and training to military engineers at undergraduate and postgraduate level, bridging academic learning with practical military engineering applications.
 
Alongside his teaching role, Alex maintains strong links with the military, industry, academia and professional institutions. He is actively involved with the Institution of Civil Engineers as a Kent & East Sussex board member and the Institution of Royal Engineers, where he achieved his fellowship, supporting the development of the next generation of engineers.
 
In 2026, Alex was awarded First Class Honours in Civil Engineering from the University of Greenwich. His final-year research project, The Influence of Recycled Fibres on the Behaviour and Properties of Concrete Products for Military Applications, investigated the potential for recycled fibre reinforcement to provide more sustainable and resilient concrete solutions for military applications.
 
Alex was the 2026 South East England winner of the ICE Princess Royal Award for Emerging Engineers and has subsequently been selected to represent the region at the International Final.

Sam Szczepanski

Sam recently graduated from the University of Derby with a First Class BEng in Civil Engineering. His final-year research project focused on low-carbon highway materials using recycled asphalt pavement. He completed a placement year with National Grid and a summer placement with Derby City Council's Highways Department, and will begin a graduate scheme in the Civil Service in November. He has a strong interest in highways, sustainable infrastructure, and asset management.