2026 marks 50 years of the Royal Academy of Engineering, and to celebrate, photojournalist Jude Vidal has captured a special series of photographs featuring a selection of their Fellows – some of the UK’s leading engineers.
The images showcase 50 engineers whose innovation has helped to tackle some of humanity’s greatest challenges – from radar and telecommunications breakthroughs to cutting-edge AI, wind turbines, and satellites.
The intimate portraits capture the people behind the breakthroughs – in their homes, labs, offices, workshops, and out in nature. From senior figures in industry and academia, to a new generation of entrepreneurs and problem-solvers.
Suitable for all ages, and free to view, Engineering Better Lives for 50 years runs from 29 June to 01 September 2026 in St Andrew Square Garden. The gardens are open daily from 7am to 8pm.
