"I am thrilled and humbled to receive such an award," says Wilkinson.
"I never thought the work I did would merit recognition but to have been honoured is a tribute to all the support and encouragement I have received from colleagues in the industry," she continues.
"The automotive sector is a great industry with fantastic, committed people and a hugely professional and passionate automotive media."
Wilkinson, who has spent virtually her working life at the SMMT since joining in 1974, has been responsible for running most of the SMMT's promotional events and activities, and has also mentored many young people working in the transport industry.
"Janet's award is richly deserved and will be applauded by everyone who knows her," comments SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes.
"To have given a lifetime's work to one sector is increasingly unusual, but to devote that career to a single organisation is even more special."