ATSE CEO to step down in July

Professor Kylie Walker AM has announced she will be stepping down as CEO of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) on 9 July 2026.

Since joining ATSE in January 2020, Kylie has helped grow the Academy into a trusted and influential voice on the applied science, technology and engineering issues that matter most to Australia’s future. 

“Combining strategic clarity, operational excellence and genuine values-driven leadership, Kylie has significantly elevated ATSE’s scale, ambition, impact and reputation,” said ATSE President Dr Cathy Foley AO FTSE FAA.  

“She has led our organisation with exceptional skill, dedication and vision, and has the full support of the Board as she moves on to the next stage in her career.” 

“It has been the privilege of my career to serve as ATSE's CEO and to work with a terrific team alongside our inspiring Fellowship,” said Kylie. 

“Their expertise, generosity and commitment to ATSE's mission have been a constant source of energy and motivation.  

“I leave enormously proud of what we have achieved together, and with complete confidence in the organisation's future. I look forward to watching ATSE continue to grow and lead.” 

During Kylie’s time at ATSE, the organisation has launched two new scholarship programs – Elevate: Boosting diversity in STEM and Propel: Australian Submarine Scholarship Program – as well as overseen a significant uplift in skills, systems, governance, team capability and relationships across government, industry and the research community. 

The ATSE Board will move promptly to recruit a new CEO and will advise more details in due course. 

“Kylie leaves the Academy in excellent shape, financially sound and with a firm strategic foundation implemented by an exceptional team,” said Dr Foley.