Dr Bronwyn Evans

Dr Bronwyn Evans AM served as CEO of Standards Australia from 2013 – 2019. As the organisation’s first female CEO, she was also influential in streamlining standards development, cutting down the time it takes to develop standards. Her tenure with Standards Australia has had and will continue to have a long-lasting and positive impact on the Australian community.‍

Dr Evans is noted for her passion in highlighting the importance of standards on a national and international level. During her time with Standards Australia, she participated, ran, engaged with a number of ISO General Assemblies and also served a two-year governance role as the Vice President of Finance for the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Dr Evans’ career in the engineering industry is noteworthy.  After graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering (Elec) and a PhD in Electrical Engineering in industrial automation, her impressive career spanned 35 years and has seen her hold numerous executive positions and board appointments including GE Healthcare and Cochlear,John Holland Limited, and most recently, as CEO of Engineers Australia.

Dr Evans first delved into standards through her engineering career and even worked with Standards Australia as a Project Manager prior to her appointment as CEO. Using both national and international standards in her many roles reiterated how important Standards Australia’s work was, both in Australia and on the national stage.

“I’m particularly proud of my and Standards Australia’s work in international standards. Australia has proven time and time again that we’re extremely influential in the APAC and international markets, and world leaders in our industries,” said Dr Evans.

Dr Evans has continued to work across all her passion projects and in addition to her current role, she is also a Fellow at the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, an Honorary Fellow of the University of Wollongong and has an Honorary Doctor of Engineering from Swinburne University of Technology.

Her outstanding work was officially recognised in 2021 with her inclusion on the Queen’s Birthday Honours. Her appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia highlights her significant contribution to engineering, medical technology and standards development.

Because of her continuous support of professional women, she is an obvious choice to highlight and support the ‘break the bias’ theme of International Women’s Day 2022.

“Women make up 50% of the population. Their voices should be heard. Their work should be recognised and supported,” said Dr Evans.

“Anyone looking to get into standards should enquire about the Standards Australia NEXTgen program, where young professionals are given access to mentors and learn about the standardisation process. It’s a wonderful program and way to learn and build a network,” continued Dr Evans.

“Standard development is extremely rewarding; you’ll get to be part of strategic conversations and decisions that affect all Australians and you and your company can shape the approach of your industry,” concluded Dr Evans.