Reid, who graduated from the BBC Broadcast Engineering scheme after joining as an apprentice in 2013, receives an all-expenses paid trip to the broadcasting trade show, IBC, in Amsterdam this September.  

The young engineer was chosen to receive the award, which is sponsored by digital technology giant Atos, by a panel of industry judges, chaired by digital media consultant Terry Marsh. “It was a very strong field this year, however Gareth stood out immediately,” said Marsh.

Reid is based in Cardiff, and works on both TV and radio facilities. He has been heavily involved in the development of new systems for BBC Wales when it moves headquarters next year.

BBC Wales technology support manager Kevin Murphy said: “Gareth has played a key role in supporting all our broadcast technologies. The ambition and drive which he has shown, 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.”

The runner up and recipient of the Coffey Award for Excellence in Technology 2018 is Alex Snell from BCi Digital.

The RTS set up the Young Technologist of the Year Award with funding from the family of broadcasting engineer A.M. Beresford-Cooke, who is remembered for his work on VHF and UHF transmission towers and masts. Its aim is to advance education in the science, practice, technology and art of television.