Roma Agrawal is a distinguished structural engineer, author, and broadcaster, renowned 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 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.
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.
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.
Roma Agrawal takes audiences on a hilarious and eye-opening journey through the history of sanitation, from ancient waste management to modern sewer systems. With surprising facts - like the Japanese trade in human excrement - and sobering realities about ongoing pollution, she unpacks the science behind how we access clean water and dispose of waste. Blending humour with hard-hitting insights, this talk is perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Clear and compelling communication is an essential skill, yet many technical professionals struggle to convey complex ideas in an engaging and accessible way. Drawing on nearly two decades in physics and engineering, alongside a successful career in writing, speaking and broadcasting, Roma Agrawal shares practical insights into how to bring technical stories to life. From writing reports and delivering confident presentations to using sketches and narrative techniques, she explores how scientists, engineers and technical specialists can communicate with impact, ensuring their ideas are heard, understood and remembered.
