Engineering is often described as a profession built on innovation, problem-solving and a commitment to creating a better future. It is also a profession shaped by the people who dedicate their careers to advancing knowledge, supporting others and sharing expertise. For these reasons, it is particularly fitting to celebrate the achievements of Dr Walter Green FIET, who was recently presented with the prestigious James N Kirby Award, one of the highest honours awarded by the IET in the Australasian region.
The award was presented on 2 July 2026 during a special technical event in Perth, Western Australia, hosted by the IET Western Australia Local Network Committee. The James N Kirby Award recognises individuals who have achieved outstanding eminence, distinction and public recognition within their sphere of engineering activity. Since its introduction in 1967, it has celebrated engineers whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the profession and wider society.
Interestingly, 1967 holds a second significance in this story. It was also the year that Dr Green joined the IET as a student member, beginning a lifelong relationship with the Institution that has now spanned almost six decades.
Over the course of his career, Walter has built an impressive record of achievement across engineering, education and innovation. After studying Electronics and Computer Science, he went on to complete a PhD in Computer Engineering. More than 40 years of work in computer and telecommunications projects followed, alongside the development of a company that has delivered leading-edge technology solutions for more than two decades. His research and patented innovations have found practical applications in industrial control systems and energy-saving technologies used around the world.
While these accomplishments alone would make for a remarkable career, what stands out equally is Walter’s commitment to sharing knowledge and helping others understand emerging challenges in technology. This was reflected in the technical presentations he delivered as part of the award event.
In keeping with the tradition associated with the James N Kirby Award, Walter gave a special presentation focused on two highly relevant topics: The Internet Avalanche and How AI Neurons Make Decisions.
The first topic explored a challenge that many engineers may not yet have encountered: the potential for cascading failures across interconnected digital networks. Walter described how these failures can propagate through systems in a manner similar to avalanches, creating widespread disruption when seemingly isolated incidents trigger larger chain reactions. As our world becomes increasingly dependent on connected infrastructure, understanding and mitigating such risks is becoming more important than ever. Walter also outlined practical measures engineers can take to reduce the likelihood and impact of these cascading failures.
His second presentation addressed another area that is attracting growing attention across the engineering profession: artificial intelligence. By explaining how neurons, weights and thresholds interact within AI models, Walter offered valuable insight into how these systems reach decisions and how engineers can develop more reliable, efficient and trustworthy AI-enabled solutions.
These presentations reflected a career-long theme that runs through Walter's work: combining deep technical expertise with a practical focus on solving real-world challenges. Whether investigating large-scale digital network resilience or helping engineers better understand AI decision-making, he continues to contribute to conversations that are increasingly important in today's technology landscape.
Walter's influence extends well beyond technical innovation. Throughout his involvement with the IET, he has demonstrated an enduring commitment to supporting the engineering profession and encouraging future generations to pursue engineering careers. His work in STEM education and his long-standing service as a volunteer have helped inspire aspiring engineers and strengthen engineering communities.
Recognising these contributions, ED Almond, Chief Executive and Secretary of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, offered his congratulations:
"Congratulations Walter on being awarded the IET Prestigious James N Kirby Prize distinguishing your outstanding eminence, public recognition and contribution to your field. On behalf of the IET we also thank you for your decades of service, support and volunteering to the Institution and for helping to inspire the next generation of engineers through your involvement, commitment and development of STEM programmes. Your dedication, passion and contributions are greatly appreciated. Walter, you have truly helped to Engineer a Better World."
Awards such as the James N Kirby Award provide an opportunity not only to celebrate individual excellence but also to recognise the broader impact that engineers can have throughout their careers. Walter's achievements remind us that engineering leadership is not defined solely by technical accomplishments. It is equally about mentoring others, contributing to professional communities, advancing knowledge and helping society navigate new challenges.
As engineering continues to evolve through advances in digital technologies, AI and communications systems, experienced professionals like Walter play an important role in helping the profession understand both the opportunities and risks that lie ahead. His willingness to share knowledge and engage with the engineering community exemplifies the qualities that the James N Kirby Award was established to recognise.
Congratulations to Dr Green on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your outstanding contribution to engineering, education, innovation and the continued development of future generations of engineers.
James N Kirby Prestige Prize Award, Perth, Western Australia
Dr Walter Green (Recipient), WA LN Committee Members, Siong Tang, Dr Martin King (WA Chair), Nathan Robertson & Joe McGinlay