Hints & Tips for Entering the BDA Awards 2025

July 16, 2025

Entries are now officially open for the British Drilling Association (BDA) Awards 2025, celebrating the absolute best across the land drilling industry. From technical excellence and safety performance, to rising talent and innovation, the awards are a fantastic opportunity to showcase achievements and gain recognition from peers across the sector.

The entry process has been designed to be as straightforward as possible. You can enter via the BDA website – https://www.britishdrillingassociation.co.uk/product/bda-awards-2025-open-for-entries/ – or request an entry form by emailing the BDA office – office@britishdrillingassociation.co.uk – then simply return your entry to the same address. With a three-month entry window – open until 17th October 2025 – now is the perfect time to start preparing your submission.

There are seven award categories this year, covering a broad spectrum of roles and achievements within the drilling industry. These are:

  • Best Audited Driller
  • Health & Safety
  • Specialist Support Service Supplier of the Year
  • Rising Star
  • Land Drilling Industry Contractor of the Year
  • Equipment Innovation
  • Lifetime Contribution to the Industry

When preparing your entry, the most important thing is to ensure you’ve selected the category that best fits the individual, company or project you’re putting forward. Carefully read the entry criteria and tailor your response accordingly. Don’t try to make a story fit where it doesn’t belong. The strongest entries historically have been those that clearly match the expectations of the category and demonstrate excellence through tangible evidence.

Each entry includes a 500-word case-study style narrative. Use this space wisely by structuring your response around a clear storyline. Set the scene by outlining the challenge or context, explain the approach taken, and then detail the results or outcomes. Judges are particularly looking for impact, so where possible, quantify your achievements, whether that’s reductions in incidents, measurable efficiency gains, innovations in process, or enhanced sustainability performance. Keep the language clear and professional, avoiding jargon and equally waffle! Write with the judging panel in mind, which means your entry needs to be both accessible and engaging. In addition to the main case study, you’ll also need to submit a short 50-word summary. This often appears in marketing or judging summaries, so treat it like a headline or elevator pitch. It should reflect describe the essence of your entry in a single, impactful statement.

You’ll also be asked to include a high-quality JPEG image (up to 20MB) to support your submission. This should be relevant to your entry, whether that’s a photo of your equipment, your team on site, or the individual being nominated. Aim for a clear, professional image that represents your achievement visually.

Before submitting, double-check that all contact information is complete, that you’ve secured permissions for the nomination, and that all supporting materials are included. Remember, the deadline of 17th October 2025 is strict and there will be no extensions, so early submission is strongly advised.

Finally, it’s worth remembering why entering matters. The BDA Awards are more than just trophies, they’re a platform to recognise the hard work, expertise, and innovation that underpin the land drilling sector. Winning, or even being shortlisted can raise your profile, open doors, and strengthen your professional reputation.

So don’t delay, start preparing your entry today and shine a spotlight on the work you’re proud of.

On behalf of the British Drilling Association – Good Luck!

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