Meet the 2024 Futurespace Award finalists
The ACE New Zealand Futurespace Award, sponsored by AECOM, recognises consultants who lead the charge in driving innovation and future-focused practices within their organisations and communities. Meet our 2024 finalists – Cole Brown (Tonkin + Taylor), Ben Westeneng (Beca) and Asem Zabin (GHD).
ACE Chief Executive Helen Davidson says the Futurespace Award acknowledges individuals who demonstrate a relentless commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible, propelling the consulting sector and the communities it serves into a brighter, more sustainable future.
"This is the first year ACE has invited applications for the award and we were really inspired by the entries that came in," Helen says. "We're really excited to showcase these three great finalists. Huge congratulations to Cole, Ben and Asem – we’re looking forward to celebrating with you at the ACE Awards next month."
AECOM New Zealand Managing Director Craig Davidson says his organisation is proud to sponsor the inaugural Futurespace Award as it aligns with their commitment to drive excellence through ingenuity and support the next generation of thinkers who will shape the future of our industry.
"We believe that innovation is the cornerstone of progress, and by fostering a culture where bold ideas and breakthrough solutions thrive within professional service consulting, we can continue to elevate the quality of services we offer, stay ahead of industry trends, and better meet the evolving needs of our clients.
"We are excited to be part of this initiative that celebrates bold ideas and forward-thinking solutions."
Cole Brown
As an Engineering Geologist at Tonkin + Taylor in Ōtautahi Christchurch, Cole has led significant initiatives to integrate digital solutions within the company. His journey from studying computer science to pivoting to geology after the 2011 Christchurch earthquake demonstrates his deep passion for understanding geological processes and their impact on communities.
Ben Westeneng
As an associate at Beca, Ben leads a team of hybrid structural/software engineers and designers, integrating the latest digital technologies such as AI, parametric and computational design, data insights, and design automation with traditional consultancy services for building structures.
Asem Zabin
As the Mixed Reality and Digital Engineering lead at GHD in Aotearoa, Asem has spearheaded numerous innovative digital engineering initiatives, significantly impacting critical infrastructure projects. His role as Programme Manager for GHD’s NZ Information Management Step-Up showcases his dedication to revolutionising data management and achieving ISO 19650 certification.
Winner to be announced at 2024 ACE Awards Gala
The winner of the 2024 Diversity and Inclusion Award will be announced at the ACE Awards Gala in Christchurch on Thursday 24 October.
A ticket to the ACE Awards Gala is included in any full registration for the Futurespace conference. Individual tickets are $235 plus GST and tables of ten are $2,350 plus GST. Each ticket includes a three-course meal, drinks and live entertainment.
To get tickets, visit the Futurespace registration page and select 'ACE Awards Gala only' or 'Table of 10 to ACE Awards Gala'.
Ticket sales close on Wednesday 9 October.