The Royal Television Society has announced Krystel Richards as its Young Technologist of the Year for 2020.
Richards started her career on the BBC Broadcast Engineering Apprenticeship, where she took part in unique placements with CNN, Digital UK and the BBC, earning a first-class degree. She then joined WarnerMedia CNN Engineering as the bureau relocated and modernised to create an all IP production facility.
The runner up and recipient of the Coffey Award for Excellence in Technology 2020 is Arran Paul. He worked for three years as a BBC Broadcast Engineering Apprentice before becoming a location engineer, responsible for providing and supporting on-location connectivity and facilities for live news broadcasts.
Terry Marsh, chair of the RTS Young Technologist Award jury, said: “The jury was overwhelmed with the talent and number of entries they received during what has been a uniquely challenging year. Krystel demonstrated not only an impressive breadth of understanding for the industry, but also showed great vision for both technology and education, along with a commitment to supporting others.”
Speaking about her award, Richards said: “I am delighted to receive such a prestigious award and would like to thank all who have and continue to spend countless hours sharing their wealth of knowledge and experience with me as I start out in my career.
“These uncertain times have brought challenges but the industry has adapted and pushed technology to its limits; it is this innovation that makes television such an exciting field of work, with opportunities at every turn. Looking ahead I hope to use this win as a platform to share my experiences and celebrate the successes of apprenticeships in STEM.”
