A BUSINESSWOMAN from Hampshire is featured alongside pioneers such as Ada Lovelace and Alan Turing in a gallery celebrating those who have had positive impact on technology.

Natalie Desty, director of Lyndhurst-based STEM Returners, is among 95 people showcased in the Institution of Engineering and Technology’s (IET) Gallery of Engineers stairwell exhibition.

The institution asked the public to nominate engineers or technicians who made a positive impact on industry or the world.

Among those featured were Ada Lovelace, who lived in the first half of the 18th century and worked on Charles Babbage’s proposed mechanical computer; and Alan Turing, who devised ways to crack German codes during World War II and is considered the father of artificial intelligence.

Natalie Desty said: “I’m honoured to have been chosen to feature in the IET’s Gallery of Engineers stairwell. To be included amongst the other nominees is very special.

“Working in this space for the last five years, we have seen how hard it has become for people to overcome the career gap penalty and the impacts that this has on their career in STEM.

“We also know how vital their return is to an industry with an advanced skills gap and in some areas, a shocking lack of diversity.”

She founded STEM Returners in 2017 as a way of getting people back into the profession after they had taken time out of employment.

She established a pilot programme with BAE Systems. Since then, Leonardo UK, Babcock International, SSE and Meggitt all launching returners programmes and more than 250 people have returned to STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) industries.

“I am very proud of the work we have done so far, working alongside industry leaders and helping nearly 250 returners, but there is more to be done,” she said.

“I am looking forward to working with more STEM firms, helping to change outdated recruitment practices and support more highly-talented STEM professionals return to the industry they love,” she added.

The top 95 nominations for the stairwell exhibition were decided by a review panel and are now displayed at the stairwell gallery exhibition at IET London: Savoy Place.

Laura Norton, head of equality, diversity and inclusion at the IET, said: “I’m delighted to see the final collection of individuals nominated for recognition from our celebrating impact campaign.

“It showcases the true diversity of successful engineers and technologists throughout history and in the present day.

“These amazing individuals provide role models for the future generation and inspire us all.

“At the IET we want to change outdated perceptions and showcase the diverse talent and creative careers in our sector, and this campaign helps us to do just that,” she added.