Joachim Engel is a professor emeritus of mathematics and mathematics education. He received a diploma in mathematics from the University of Bonn and a Ph.D. in applied mathematics from the University of Southern California. Early on, he was fascinated by the mathematics of uncertainty. Over the years his focus shifted from orthodox theory of probability and statistics towards bridging human understanding and sense making in situations of risk and uncertainty. Educating the public to better understand statistics about society is a burning issue where statistics education can make an important contribution to society. Joachim Engles has been coordinator of the ProCivicStat project that aims to empower people to engage in informed decision making and participate in evidence based public policy. After his formal retirement in 2020 he still continues to teach some courses and does editorial work, with a focus on enhancing the public’s understanding of statistics in the areas of health, environment and democratic values.