22 Jan 2026
The MacLean Citation and the Fulton-Downer Gold and Silver Medals are awarded by the President of Engineering New Zealand each year. The MacLean Citation is presented to a member who has contributed exceptional and distinguished service to the profession, while the Gold Medal is awarded to a senior engineer and the Silver Medal to an emerging professional.
The MacLean Citation is an award established to acknowledge Francis William MacLean, President of the Institution in 1922, who displayed exceptional devotion to the profession of engineering and to his fellow engineers. The Citation is presented from time to time to a member who has contributed exceptional and distinguished service to the profession.
MacLean Citation – Janis Swan
Janis Swan is awarded the MacLean Citation for her exceptional and sustained service to engineering, particularly her influential leadership in engineering education and her long-standing contributions to national science and standards bodies. After completing her Master’s, Janis worked in industry, then completed her PhD in Chemical Engineering, before returning to New Zealand and continuing her career in bioprocessing and the meat industry. Janis worked extensively on protein extraction, meat by-product processing and industrial research before moving into academia. She joined the University of Waikato, where she played a central role in developing and growing the School of Engineering and helping to launch its BE(Hons) programmes.
Janis held numerous senior academic leadership roles, including becoming the first woman to be appointed Associate Dean of Engineering in 2005, and was appointed Professor Emeritus in 2017. She has served the profession through her membership in the New Zealand Council of Engineering Deans (NZCED), which she chaired from 2009–2011, and through positions on the Standards and Accreditation Board, the Marsden Council, the Science Board, MBIE’s College of Assessors, multiple government science panels and countless voluntary judging roles. She continues to contribute internationally through the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers Standards Board and membership of Washington Accord review teams, and supports future engineers through several scholarship trusts. She was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to engineering in the 2009 New Year Honours List.
Janis’ career reflects a deep commitment to advancing engineering knowledge, strengthening education and supporting the next generation.
The Fulton-Downer Medals are named in honour of eminent engineers James Edward Fulton (1854–1928) and Arnold Fielder Downer (1895–1984). Since their inception following a bequest from Fulton in 1929 (with additional bequests from Downer in 1973 and 1988) the medals have been considered among engineering's most prestigious accolades. They honour the best of our profession.
Fulton-Downer Gold Medal – Adrian Ferguson
Adrian is recognised with the Fulton-Downer Gold Medal for his outstanding commitment to the engineering profession and his long-standing service to Engineering New Zealand as a dedicated volunteer and advocate. With a background spanning mechanical and manufacturing engineering, product design, project engineering and academic teaching, Adrian has consistently shared his knowledge, energy and enthusiasm across the profession.
During his time as an engineering academic, Adrian regularly transported students from Petone to Wellington so they could participate in Engineering New Zealand events, ensuring emerging engineers had access to networking opportunities and professional development. He also invited Engineering New Zealand staff into his lectures to promote membership and engagement, helping to foster the next generation of active members – including several who now hold influential roles within the profession.
Adrian contributes widely through his involvement with the Wellington Branch, the Mechanical Engineering Group, the Electrical Engineering Group, and liaison with other technical groups. He has supported accreditation processes, assisted advocacy work on standards in 2025, and contributed to community initiatives such as Wings over Wairarapa, Kiwibots, Aquabots, NIWA Wellington Science Fair and other STEM projects.
This award acknowledges Adrian’s exceptional service, volunteer leadership and enduring commitment to strengthening Aotearoa New Zealand’s engineering community.
Fulton-Downer Silver Medal – Jack Southee
Jack is recognised with the Fulton-Downer Silver Medal for his exceptional leadership, professionalism and commitment to strengthening the engineering community. Since graduating in 2021, Jack has contributed to a range of existing building retrofits and redevelopments, building valuable technical experience while demonstrating a strong dedication to the profession.
Jack has made a significant impact through his role as Chair of the Auckland Young Engineers committee, where his organisation of high-quality events has consistently attracted strong attendance. Highlights include the Young Engineers Eastern Busway site visit, Sweat Out the Stress sessions, the Industry Quiz Night with AECOM, and Rewiring for Resilience – all of which brought young professionals together to learn, connect and support one another. His clear communication, reliability and passion have made him a standout volunteer and a trusted collaborator.
Alongside this, Jack is an enthusiastic member of the Heritage Board, contributing thoughtfully and always seeking opportunities to support and engage with others.
Jack’s commitment to fostering community, creating meaningful opportunities for emerging engineers and contributing positively to professional groups exemplifies the spirit of the Fulton-Downer Silver Medal.
There's more where that came from. Read about the inspiring contributions of past recipients of the prestigious President's Awards and find out about their collective impact on your profession.
