In 2023, Gilbertson was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business, science and technology.

[1][2] Gilbertson also founded the Emergent Māori Women’s Leadership Programme, and ran a venture capital workshop to increase industry capacity.

[2] Gilbertson also chaired DSIR's Science and Technological Advisory Council, and taught into a number of programmes at Victoria University of Wellington.

[2][3] Gilbertson established an education trust, Te Kaihau, in 2006, which "grows leaders to innovate for a better world", increasing cross-culturalism and encouraging social entrepreneurship in 135 countries.

[3][4] In the 2023 King's Birthday and Coronation Honours, Gilbertson was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business, science and technology.