26 January 2026

ATSE CEO recognised for national leadership in STEM

Australia’s leading tech academy is thrilled to congratulate CEO Kylie Walker AM, who has today been appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia. 

Australia’s leading tech academy is thrilled to congratulate CEO Kylie Walker AM, who has today been appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia. 

Kylie is a visionary leader, mentor, and award-winning science communicator who has served as CEO of ATSE since 2020. 

She is also Chair of Aged Care Research and Industry Innovation Australia, a visiting Fellow at the ANU Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, and has previously been CEO of Science & Technology Australia and Chair of the Australian National Commission for UNESCO. 

ATSE President Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM FTSE FAA  extended her deep congratulations to Kylie on behalf of the Academy and its Fellows.   

“This is a well-deserved recognition of Kylie’s deeply impactful work,” said Dr Foley. 

“During her time at ATSE, Kylie has overseen significant growth in the Academy’s impact and profile, as well as positioning the Academy as a leading source of advice when it comes to solving some of Australia’s most complex problems. 

“Kylie is a tireless advocate for increased STEM diversity and representation. 

“From creating the acclaimed Superstars of STEM program when CEO of Science & Technology Australia, to spearheading ATSE’s nation-leading Elevate STEM diversity programKylie is a leader who lives her values. 

“She’s someone who goes beyond identifying problems to implementing initiatives and programs at scale to drive systemic change.” 

Kylie said that it was an honour to be recognised. 

“I’m deeply humbled to be recognised and grateful to the Council for the Order of Australia for recommending this award,” she said. 

“This award is just as much a recognition of the many extraordinary leaders in science and technology who I’ve worked alongside throughout my career. 

“It’s also a reflection of just how deeply Australians care about increasing STEM diversity and representation.  

“Building our STEM future and solving the complex problems of the future requires a diverse workforce where everyone has the opportunity to contribute.

“It’s an honour to be a Member of the Order of Australia alongside such great Australians, including many of ATSE’s expert Fellows with whom I have the privilege of working.”