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Engineer, author & STEM advocate

Roma Agrawal

Transform engineering perception with Roma Agrawal MBE, speaker, structural engineer and author. Roma works with organisations to promote STEM careers and diversity in engineering, delivering award-winning insights as the engineer behind The Shard and recipient of the Royal Academy's Rooke Award.

Trusted by The Royal Society, European Space Agency

Roma Agrawal, Speaker | Engineer, Author, Broadcaster
Roma Agrawal

Roma Agrawal

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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Roma Agrawal's biography

At a glance

  • Structural engineer behind the foundations of The Shard
  • Bestselling author of Built, translated globally
  • Presenter of BBC, Channel 4, and Discovery documentaries
Roma Agrawal MBE is a structural engineer, author, and broadcaster, known for her contributions to the field of engineering and her commitment to inspiring the next generation. With a degree in physics from the University of Oxford and a master's in General Structural Engineering from Imperial College London, Roma has spent over fourteen years designing iconic structures, including the foundations and spire of The Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe. Her passion for science and design drives her to share the wonders of engineering with diverse audiences. Roma has authored four books aimed at demystifying engineering for the general public, with her first book, BUILT, winning an AAAS science book award and being translated into eight languages. As a broadcaster, she has presented documentaries and hosted her own podcast, Building Stories, further extending her reach and influence. Roma's dedication to promoting engineering careers, particularly among underrepresented groups, has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering's Rooke Award and an MBE for her services to engineering. She has lectured to thousands at universities and schools worldwide, encouraging curiosity and exploration in science and engineering. In addition to her professional achievements, Roma serves on various boards and panels, advocating for diversity and inclusion within the engineering sector. Her qualifications include being an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Structural Engineers, among others. Through her work, Roma continues to break barriers and inspire individuals from all backgrounds to engage with the exciting world of engineering and science.

Roma's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

How a Nail Built the World
Roma Agrawal reveals how seemingly simple inventions - like the nail, wheel, magnet, or lens - have shaped human history. She traces their evolution from ancient breakthroughs to their impact on modern society, showing how the nail made skyscrapers possible or how the humble lens led to life-changing medical advancements. Blending engineering insights with engaging storytelling, Roma challenges audiences to see the world differently and embrace the creativity that drives technological progress.
Five Moments that Defined Me
Through candid storytelling and humour, Roma Agrawal shares the defining moments of her life as an immigrant, a woman of colour, and a structural engineer. From professional challenges to personal struggles with infertility and mental health, she offers a heartfelt perspective on resilience and inclusion. With practical takeaways for businesses seeking to create more diverse and supportive workplaces, Roma delivers an insightful and deeply relatable talk that resonates across industries.
Recipe for a Skyscraper
What does it take to build a skyscraper? Roma Agrawal breaks down the essential ingredients that allow these towering structures to defy gravity. From the invention of the lift to cutting-edge materials, she explores the innovations that have shaped our skylines. With interactive elements and fascinating historical insights, Roma’s engaging style brings engineering to life, inspiring audiences to think differently about the structures around them.
The Human side of Risk, Data & Time
Roma Agrawal shares her insights as a structural engineer on The Shard, highlighting the unexpected challenges faced, such as a fox in the viewing gallery, and the complexities of soft ground and multiple stakeholders during the UK's largest concrete pour. She emphasises the role of human creativity in processing vast data, referencing historical examples like WWII code breakers. Attendees will gain fresh perspectives on innovation, risk management, and the nature of time, applicable across various industries, including finance.
Engineering and Society in an AI world
Roma Agrawal explores the dual impact of engineering and technology on society, highlighting both positive and negative outcomes. She shares compelling stories, such as the paradox of the nail, which illustrates how an industry can both rely on exploitation and contribute to modern architecture. Additionally, she examines communication systems that perpetuate colonial power while fostering global connections. Attendees will gain insights into how historical lessons can inform a more equitable future in technology and AI development.

Why we recommend booking Roma

Unlock the world of engineering with Roma Agrawal MBE, renowned structural engineer and award-winning author. Her insights inspire teams to address challenges creatively. Book Roma for an engaging talk that empowers your organization and fosters curiosity in future innovators.

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Trusted by The Royal Society, European Space Agency

Testimonials

Just wanted to say a huge thank you on behalf of the whole team for your amazing work last Thursday! It was an absolute pleasure to work with you! You're an incredible presenter and interviewer, and you coaxed the very best out of all the contributors.

The Royal Society

Thank you so very much for such an honest and insightful talk today – it was great to see so many excellent questions at the end as well. We had a really fantastic attendance so are super happy! Especially because the topics you covered were so important and will have really resonated with so many people across the firm, so truly, thanks so much.

Wow, thank you Roma, that was a fabulous talk. Poignant and funny, powerful and moving. It really was a highlight of the day for me and lots of the audience.

European Space Agency

Featured Projects

Roma Agrawal - Building Stories podcast cover
Roma Agrawal - Nuts And Bolts: Seven Small Inventions That Changed The World (In A Big Way) book cover
Roma Agrawal - Built: The Hidden Stories Behind Our Structures book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Roma Agrawal for my next event?
Email roma.agrawal@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Roma's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Roma Agrawal's speaking style like?
Roma Agrawal structures her talks around object-led or project-led narratives, using a specific engineering artefact or structure — such as a nail, a lens, or The Shard — as an anchor to trace historical development and broader societal impact, combining this with personal storytelling drawn from her own career and life experience.

What topics does Roma Agrawal specialise in?
Roma Agrawal speaks on the history of everyday inventions and their engineering legacy, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and the structural science behind skyscrapers. She is a structural engineer who worked on The Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe, and whose book Built won an AAAS science book award and has been translated into eight languages.

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Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

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You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

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Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

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Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

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What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

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Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

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Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

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Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

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Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

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Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.