Prof Stephen Foster elected to ATSE

Congratulations to Dean of UNSW Engineering & CIES Professor Stephen Foster who is among 33 new Fellows appointed to the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) in October. 

The Fellows are among Australia’s most distinguished engineers and scientists, elected by their peers for ground-breaking research in their fields.

Professor Stephen Foster has been elected to ATSE for his role in advancing the quality and sustainability of concrete structures in Australia and around the world.

Prof. Foster is an internationally renowned authority in structural engineering whose research focuses on new materials. His contributions include advancements in high-strength reinforcing steels, low-carbon construction materials and ultra-high-performance concretes.

His research directly informs Australian Standards for concrete structures, including a world-first design standard for bridges incorporating steel fibre reinforced concrete. He also spearheaded globally important technical specifications for geopolymer concrete, which is less carbon-intensive than traditional concrete.

Prof. Foster provided expert advice in the wake of the high-profile Opal Towers and Mascot Towers incidents, underscoring his standing as a trusted expert in his field. He is also President of the International Federation for Structural Concrete (fib).

ATSE President Dr Katherine Woodthorpe said the new Fellows are creating a better Australia through their work.

“As we face global challenges such as climate change, the digitisation of our economy and the massive challenge of building a diverse and skilled STEM workforce, technological innovation is the lynchpin for shaping our future. It’s looking bright thanks to the extraordinary contributions of our newest Fellows.

“It is a proud moment to be elected by your peers and acknowledged for your lifelong achievements. ATSE Fellows are truly exceptional at what they do, and Australia is all the better for them.”