Celebrating Excellence – BDA Awards 2025 Winners Announced

November 27, 2025

The British Drilling Association (BDA) is delighted to announce the winners of the BDA Awards 2025, recognising outstanding achievements, professionalism and innovation across the UK land drilling industry.

The evening brought together members and colleagues from across the sector, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere. It was a welcome opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on progress, and recognise the individuals and organisations driving standards forward.

This year’s entries demonstrated the innovation, commitment and pride that continue to strengthen the industry. The event also supported Yorkshire Children’s Charity, highlighting the BDA’s ongoing commitment to giving back while celebrating professional achievement.

The Winners

Best Audited Driller | Winner: James McFarlane, BAM Ritchies | A solid submission. This individual is a technically skilled, safety-conscious driller who consistently excels in BDA audits. He holds the Advanced Driller NVQ Level 3 and is enrolled on his employer’s Supervisory Programme, reflecting his leadership potential. His high standards in health, safety, and environmental performance, combined with his versatility and meticulous reporting, make him a standout winner for this award.

Highly Commended | Luke Wilshire, Wheeler Site Investigation

Health & Safety | Winner: Dunelm Geotechnical & Environmental | Recognised for its exemplary safety culture and ongoing commitment to reducing risk across operations. Dunelm consistently demonstrates leadership in the practical application of safety standards and proactive workforce engagement.

Specialist Support Service Supplier | Winner: Equipe Group | Awarded for its continuous support to the drilling community through training, auditing, and technical excellence. Equipe’s contribution to professional development remains integral to improving competency across the sector.

Rising Star | Winner: Dr Pooneh Shah, Leeds Beckett University | This individual has rapidly advanced the geotechnical sector through a blend of academic insight and hands-on field expertise. A champion of sustainable, low-impact investigation techniques and knowledge sharing, she breaks boundaries, challenges convention, and inspires the next generation of geotechnical drillers.

Equipment Innovation | Winner: Dragon Drilling | This new development is truly the first of its kind. The team at Dragon Drilling identified a need created by renewable-energy production and rapidly developed an innovative solution, showing confidence in their concept through global patent protection.

Highly Commended | Igne

Land Drilling Industry Contractor |Winner: Wheeler Site Investigation | This organisation has set a new benchmark for professional standards in the drilling industry, becoming the first company to achieve 100 percent compliance in BDA audits. Its exceptional safety record and flawless delivery on high-profile projects highlight the impact a smaller company can make through dedication, quality, and technical excellence.

Highly Commended | BAM Ritchies

Lifetime Achievement (Sponsored by Ground Control) | Winners: Stephen Pettigrew and Gary Wheeler | With over four decades in the drilling industry, both individuals have been instrumental in improving safety, reducing manual handling, and raising professional standards. Their mentorship, integrity, and technical contribution have left an enduring legacy on the industry.

The BDA extends warm congratulations to all winners and nominees, and thanks the expert judging panel for their dedication.

Thank you Sponsors!

The BDA extends its sincere thanks to Stratum Drilling Solutions, this year’s Headline Sponsor, and to other generous sponsors: Wheeler Site Investigation, Equipe Group, WJ UK, Land Drilling and Ground Control.

Your support is greatly appreciated!