North East England has spawned brilliant people whose inventions and innovations have both been responsible for changing the world we live in and influence it into our future. Our capacity for invention and innovative delivery, from railways – to hydraulics – to stem cells, highlights our creative spirit and pioneering culture. From the well-known engineers and inventors of the Industrial Revolution who put Tyneside on the map, to the lesser-known trailblazers in their fields who need to be put on the map; we celebrate those people who have excelled in their field; who have worked to expand the diversity of the workforce and have forged an inspirational path for others to follow.