Bright spark James Goodhand was chosen to receive the award by a panel of judges chaired by Terry Marsh, Digital Media Consultant.

Goodhand graduated from UCL with a degree in Physics before joining the BBC’s trainee scheme. Since then he has completed placements with BBC Distribution, Newsgathering Location Facilities and International Bureaux Support. Most recently he has been working on a project to develop an in-house Return Vision System for BBC News.

Terry Marsh, Chair of the RTS Young Technologist Award jury, said: “The RTS Young Technologist Award recognises talented newcomers to the industry and helps them stand out in what is a very competitive arena. James impressed the jury with his great technical knowledge, ability to seek out opportunities to solve problems, and understanding of the needs of the user.”

The young technologist said: “I’m delighted to receive such a prestigious award. I have learned so much since joining the broadcast industry two years ago and am excited by all that I have left to learn and contribute. The constant flow of new technologies provides a stream of possibility for creativity and development. I would like to thank all of those who have been involved in my training and development since entering the industry. The knowledge they have imparted, and constant willingness to help and educate has been invaluable.”

Morwen Williams, BBC’s Head of Newsgathering Operations, adds: “I’m delighted that James has received this recognition. He is an extremely impressive and visionary engineer. His MSc project with us has been both practical and inspired, so this award is very well deserved.”

The runner up prize, the Coffey Award for Excellence in Technology, is awarded to Christos Danakis, CDN Designer for BT. He said: “It is an honour to receive the Coffey Award and be recognised by such a prestigious society which represents my passions, and inspires young people to join the profession." 

The Young Technologist Award was established by the RTS with funds received from the family of A.M. Beresford-Cooke – a distinguished engineer who contributed much to the development of British broadcasting technology through his work on towers and masts for VHF and UHF transmission. The aim of the award is to advance education in the science, practice, technology and art of television and its allied fields.