The Roderick A. Smith Prize is named in honour of Professor Roderick Arthur Smith FREng (1947–2024), a distinguished British mechanical engineer whose research and leadership had a profound impact on railway engineering, materials science and transport policy. Internationally recognised for his pioneering work on fatigue and fracture mechanics, Professor Smith’s insights helped improve railway safety worldwide and contributed to more resilient transport systems. Beyond his scientific achievements, he was an inspiring academic leader, a passionate advocate for safe and sustainable transport and a strong supporter of early-career engineers. As a former President of the EIS, he championed the development of future generations of engineers, and this prize recognises both his exceptional professional legacy and his enduring commitment to nurturing emerging talent.