RTS Unveils 2018 Young Technologist Award Recipient

The Royal Television Society (RTS) has revealed that the winner of its annual Young Technologist Award is Gareth Reid, a technology support engineer at BBC Wales.

Reid was chosen by a panel of industry expert judges, chaired by Terry Marsh, digital media consultant. As the first-place winner, he is receiving an all-expenses paid trip to IBC.

The award, sponsored by Atos, is meant to advance education in the science, practice, technology and art of television and its allied fields. It is presented in memory of A.M. Beresford-Cooke, a distinguished engineer who contributed greatly to the development of British broadcasting technology through his work on towers and masts for VHF and UHF transmission.

Reid graduated from the BBC Broadcast Engineering scheme after joining as an engineering apprentice in 2013. He then became a technology support engineer at BBC Wales in Cardiff. He has also contributed to the training and development of the new systems being installed for BBC Wales’ relocation next year.

Marsh commented: “It was a very strong field this year, however Gareth’s application stood out immediately due to his carefully considered answers, personable approach and his clear natural leadership working alongside both trainees and established engineers. He is not only excelling in his career, but also volunteering at the BBC Academy to provide advice for future apprentices, naturally aligning himself with the essence of this award as we celebrate the outstanding technologists of the future.”

Reid noted: “I am delighted and privileged as a broadcast engineer to be recognized as the Young Technologist of the Year 2018. Working in this constantly changing industry, I strive to provide the highest level of support possible to both production and engineering teams across the BBC, while continually developing my skills in the latest standards and technologies available on the market.

“Each day brings new and complex challenges, which can require detailed fault finding and repairs at a moment’s notice. Working with colleagues, both experienced and newly qualified, allows us to share our knowledge to craft a solution that not only fixes the problem but ensures that our services and content stay on air for our viewers and listeners to enjoy.”

Kevin Murphy, BBC Wales’ technology support manager, added: “I am delighted that Gareth is this year’s RTS Young Technologist of the Year. He has played a key role in supporting all broadcast technologies within BBC Wales. The ambition and drive which he has shown, in particular with the IP proof of concept we set up coupled with an eagerness to both mentor and disseminate his knowledge to his colleagues, make him a valuable asset to us here in BBC Wales.”