British APCO Launches Ian Thompson Bursary 2025
14th Nov 2024
Following two successful years in which we have supported seven Bursary winners, British APCO is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 Ian Thompson Bursary.
The award is open to applicants of all ages in the first two or three years of working or studying in the field of critical communications in public safety within the UK and Ireland; they could have a role in a user organisation, employed by a supplier or in full time studies. They will be supported by previous Bursary winners who will share their experiences to date and answer your questions.
This year’s Bursary was launched at the British APCO Autumn event by Trustee Becca Jones and previous recipients Georgie Green from the Ambulance Radio Programme and Dr Jonathan Sinclair from Inclutech.
Georgie was thrilled to be involved in this year’s launch adding,
“As a young woman working in technology, it’s fantastic to see this amazing opportunity be opened far and wide again to those working in this sector. As a 2024 recipient of the award, the opportunities I have been presented with have absolutely blown me away and my career will only flourish because I plucked up the courage to apply! Applying was one of the best things I’ve ever done, so I can’t wait to see what the 2025 award has in store.”
Our Trustees from a wide variety of critical communications in public safety backgrounds see the Ian Thompson Bursary as crucial to continual progress into the future for the sector with one, Jeremy Habberley from Sepura, adding,
"The Ian Thompson Bursary from British APCO is a fantastic prospect for any professional early in their careers within critical communications and public safety. The chance to attend leading international public safety conferences and the exposure it provides to global insights is unique.
“Along with mentorship from senior members to help with professional growth and understanding of critical communications challenges, this really is an exceptional opportunity for anyone looking to develop their career and make a difference."
So, what do previous recipients see as the benefits?
Jonathan, who was able to attend APCO Canada as a result of the Bursary, recently commented
“A special shoutout to BAPCO for the bursary that brought me to [APCO Canada] to dive into NG911—exploring lessons learned, challenges faced, and how we might reflect them onto NG999. A swell time packed with riveting talks, invaluable networking, and collaboration aplenty. Here’s to more jazz-age magic and future-forward discussions that will shape the next era of public safety. APCO Canada Conference 2024 has been nothing short of inspiring!"
Georgie echoed his thoughts adding,
“My experience as a bursary recipient has not only been a career highlight but a personal one I’ll cherish for a long time. The support I’ve received from British APCO colleagues has been incredible. I’ve had so many networking opportunities off the back of the award.”
“Attending the TCCA Critical Communications World 2024 in Dubai was the most incredible opportunity and blew any initial expectations out of the water. Talking to an audience is something that would have terrified me before winning the award, but I was able to stand with colleagues at ESS to talk about the Mobile Data & Vehicle Solution we are delivering to English and Welsh Ambulance Trusts. My confidence has skyrocketed. I could not sing more praises about my experience and journey following receiving this award if I tried!”
If you know of someone who fits the bill to win the bursary then please do give them every encouragement to submit their nomination. Ian Thompson was a great advocate for education and developing new talent to the public safety industry, and this Bursary provides a fitting legacy to our former Chief Executive.
For anyone considering applying, Georgie added,
“Grab this opportunity and RUN with it – champion and believe yourself, and help the team you work with continue to grow with these incredible opportunities and apply!”
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The application process is deliberately simple to encourage the widest possible range of applications. To find out more and apply, visit:
https://www.bapco.org.uk//ian-thompson-bursary-award-2025/
Should you have any queries, please feel free to contact us at:
support@bapco.og.uk
