Engineers Australia has appointed former Rear Admiral, Katherine Richards, as its new Chief Engineer.
“Katherine brings deep operational experience, strategic leadership and an unshakable commitment to engineering excellence,” Engineers Australia National President and Board Chair, Raj Aseervatham, stated.
RADM Richards will join Engineers Australia after a 36-year career in the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), culminating in her promotion to Rear Admiral in 2020. She has held several senior appointments, including Head Navy Engineering and Defence Seaworthiness Regulator.
“I feel deeply honoured to be able to represent our members and to work with so many talented people to address the challenges facing our nation,” RADM Richards said.
Most recently, she headed the design of a new, independent statutory regulator to oversee Australia's AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program. She retired from the Navy in 2024.
In recognition of her service, RADM Richards was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross in 2014 and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2021. She became an Honorary Fellow of Engineers Australia in 2024.
She will be based in Canberra and commence in the role on 12 May 2025.