Queensland's leading Women in Technology Awards reveal 2026 Finalists

Women in Technology (WiT) announced the finalists for the prestigious 2026 WiT Awards, recognising outstanding women, allies, organisations and teams shaping Queensland's future through technology, innovation, science and STEM leadership.

This year's Awards attracted an exceptional calibre of nominations and applications from across Queensland, showcasing pioneering achievements in research, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, education, community impact and industry leadership. Following a rigorous judging process, finalists have been selected as leaders and changemakers whose contributions are advancing technology and creating meaningful outcomes for industry and society.

Being named a WiT Awards finalist is a significant achievement and reflects the talent, innovation and leadership driving Queensland's STEM and technology sectors. These finalists represent the people and organisations making a lasting impact across our communities, workplaces and industries while helping shape Queensland's future.

Iyari Cevallos, Chair of Women in Technology, said the quality of this year's finalists reflects the strength and diversity of Queensland's innovation ecosystem.

"The WiT Awards continue to showcase the extraordinary depth of talent, innovation and leadership that exists across Queensland's technology and STEM sectors. Every finalist has demonstrated not only excellence in their field, but also a commitment to creating positive impact through technology, whether that be advancing research, driving business innovation, supporting communities, or inspiring future generations.

"Our finalists represent the future of Queensland's innovation economy. They are researchers, entrepreneurs, technologists, educators and leaders who are solving complex challenges, creating opportunities and driving meaningful change through technology and science.

"The WiT Awards are about more than recognising achievement. They are about highlighting role models, celebrating progress and demonstrating what is possible when talented people are empowered to thrive and lead. The calibre of this year's finalists is exceptional, and their collective impact will continue to shape our industries and communities for years to come.

"On behalf of the Women in Technology Board, I congratulate every finalist on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to celebrating their accomplishments at the 2026 WiT Awards Gala."

The finalists of the 2026 WiT Awards are:

Consumer Strength Champion Finalists

• Dr Sarah Flaim

• Consumer Priorities in Allergic Rhinitis - Allergy Research Group, QUT

• Katherine Robinson

Emerging Science Star Finalists   

• Dr Katie O'Connor

• Dr Catherine Kim

• Dr Sarah Hartman

Emerging Tech Star Finalists

• Dr Somayeh Hussaini

• Dr Jessica Korte

• Dr Harshala Gammulle

• Dimitri Josephine

• Dr Sarah Hartman

Employer of Change Finalists

• Powerlink Queensland

• Virgin Australia

Excellence in Industry Leadership Finalists

• Professor Sara Couperthwaite

• Michelle MacRae

• Melissa Witheriff

• UniQuest

Excellence in Research Finalists   

• Dr Somayeh Hussaini

• Dr Emma Bolderson

• Dr Nikky LaBranche

First Nations Change Maker Finalists

• Becki Cook

• Sabrina Koina

• Djookian

Future Focused Business Achiever Finalists

• Lisa Sarago

• Dr Raisa Monteiro

• Dr Natalie Saez

Lifting Communities Finalists

• Associate Professor Melissa Fanshawe

• CSIRO

• Sophia Arkinstall

Public Sector Excellence Finalists

• Female Founders team within the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation

• Dr Katie O'Connor

• CSIRO

Raising the Regions Finalists

• Kaye North

• Associate Professor Susanna Cramb

• Dr Louise Puslednik  

The 2026 WiT Awards are made possible with the support of major category partners including:

· Powerlink Queensland supporting the Lifting Communities Award;

· The University of Queensland (UQ) supporting the Excellence in Research Award;

· Queensland University of Technology (QUT) supporting the First Nations Change Maker Award; and

· Auto & General (supporting the Emerging Tech Star Award.

For almost three decades, the WiT Awards have celebrated Queensland's most inspiring women, allies, teams and organisations in technology and STEM. The WiT Awards continue to showcase the achievements that are shaping a more innovative, inclusive and prosperous future for Queensland.

The winners will be announced at the 2026 WiT Awards Gala on Friday 25 September 2026, bringing together leaders from industry, government, research, education and the broader technology community to celebrate excellence across the sector.