13 Mar 2026
The past 12 months have seen continued progress for the Engineering New Zealand Foundation, with great outcomes made possible by the generosity of members who believe in a thriving, inclusive, future-focused profession.
The third year of the Foundation’s Grant Programme saw a process change to reduce the time pressure on interested applicants. We moved from a once-a-year funding round to a more flexible, responsive model to better reflect how innovation happens. Good ideas don’t arrive on a timetable and they shouldn’t have to wait to get the support they need. We’re now assessing applications on their individual merit, when the time is right for the project and the people behind it. Some periods may see fewer grants approved; others may see a flurry of activity. What matters is quality, impact and alignment with the Foundation’s mission.
This new approach has already proven positive. In 2025 the Foundation supported a range of initiatives that reflect the breadth of engineering and the communities it serves. We were delighted to support robotics clubs at primary schools in Rotorua and Tauranga, helping spark curiosity and confidence in eager, inquisitive young learners. We continued our investment in the Wonder Project, supporting its work to inspire rangatahi through engaging, hands-on STEM experiences.
We also supported kaupapa that strengthen engineering’s cultural competence and social impact. This included funding a hugely successful wānanga in September which focused on mātauranga Māori, leadership and engineering practice. We supported He Rau Aroha, which continues to build Māori collaboration, capability and corporate social responsibility across engineering and infrastructure. In different ways, these initiatives contribute to a profession that is more capable and more representative of the communities it serves.
Another 2025 highlight was announcing the second recipient of the Francis Small Award. Dr Daniel Moroder FEngNZ CPEng IntPE(NZ) was recognised for his exceptional voluntary contribution to the profession over many years, particularly through his work with the New Zealand Timber Design Society. From writing technical guides to convening conferences and generously sharing knowledge, Daniel exemplifies the selfless and ongoing service that underpins a strong professional community.
The Matata Initiative also progressed through its second year, continuing its focus on encouraging Māori and Pasifika rangatahi into engineering study and careers. In 2025, 15 scholarships of $5,000 provided practical support at a critical point in students’ journeys. We’re thankful to work in partnership with the likes of Pūhoro STEMM Academy who have taken the lead with scholarship delivery. Southland’s regional development agency Great South has ensured that students in the lower South Island don’t go without, hosting a hands-on engineering exploration day at Murihiku Marae in October. Amanaki STEM Academy also supported pathways for Pacific learners into the engineering profession.
None of this work happens in isolation, or without support. We were honoured to receive a substantial bequest from the family of Wallace (Wal) McQuarrie in early 2025. Wal’s legacy to the profession was acknowledged at the 2025 Fellows’ Dinner in March, where his daughter Tracey was presented with a certificate of acknowledgement on behalf of the Foundation. It served as a reminder that generosity can extend far beyond a lifetime and can shape opportunities for generations to come.
Your generosity enables the Foundation to back innovative ideas, support students, recognise service and invest in initiatives that strengthen engineering in Aotearoa. Every contribution expands what we’re able to do and who we’re able to reach. Looking ahead, we’re focused on increasing the Foundation’s visibility, continuing to develop the Grant Programme, growing the impact of the Matata Initiative, and supporting projects that reflect the values and aspirations of the profession. The challenges facing engineering and Aotearoa are complex, but they aren’t without opportunity. The Foundation is here to support our profession to meet those challenges.
Glen Cornelius is Chief Executive of Duncan Cotterill and Chair of the Engineering New Zealand Foundation.
Learn more about the Foundation and donate to make an impact and improve the future of engineering here.
This article was first published in the March 2026 issue of EG magazine.
