The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has reason to celebrate as its dedicated experts receive well-deserved recognition in the 2024 King’s New Year Honours list. Among the distinguished recipients is Kirsty Tilley, Dstl’s Autonomy Programme Manager, who has been honoured with the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her remarkable contributions to defence and inclusion, particularly her advocacy for the visually impaired.
Kirsty Tilley leads the vision impairment aspect of the Dstl Employee Support Network, offering support and guidance to colleagues across the organization. Her efforts have significantly contributed to the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), helping them raise over £4.5 million since 2020 by actively supporting their Christmas campaign. Kirsty has also been a passionate advocate for Goalball UK, a sport designed for visually impaired individuals.
In addition to her advocacy for the visually impaired, Kirsty has spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving women’s experiences in the defence sector. Notably, she has worked on enhancing the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for female staff. Kirsty is also at the forefront of critical work within Dstl’s Autonomy Programme, where she plays a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of autonomous systems in defence.
Expressing her gratitude for the BEM, Kirsty stated, “It is really overwhelming to receive this honour, and I feel that this is a reflection of the amazing people I work with, both within Dstl and externally. It is a great opportunity to highlight the importance of supporting women and people with disabilities in defence. I am strongly motivated to do this by my daughter, who is visually impaired, and I want to ensure the workforce she joins is inclusive to her and others.”
Dstl staff have further garnered accolades with Commendation Awards from the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff (VCDS). Professor Joann Prior, who has dedicated over 30 years to highly impactful scientific research and leadership in the defence and security sector, has been recognized for her significant contributions. Although now retired, Professor Prior has been instrumental in advancing medical solutions for diseases of defence concern. She is celebrated not only for her research but also as an exemplary role model committed to the development of individuals within the field.
Reflecting on her award, Professor Prior said, “I was extremely pleased that my career in science for Dstl has been recognized in this way. It is reassuring to me to see that science excellence is held in high regard by the MOD. I have been privileged to work with some great scientists throughout my career in the MOD, which provided a hugely stimulating environment to work in.
Furthermore, more than 40 Dstl experts, including military advisers, have received a group VCDS award. The Dstl wargaming team has worked tirelessly to test a new Land Operating Concept for the British Army, culminating in the Army’s largest-ever force development wargame. This dedicated effort has provided the Army with invaluable insights into its operations and strategies for the next decade, equipping the MOD with essential evidence to inform military capability investments.
Dstl Team Project Manager, Andrew Fulton, praised the team’s efforts, stating, “The combined Dstl, military, and industry team has worked tirelessly throughout the year to design and execute a series of wargames to test how the British Army might operate utilizing the principles within the Land Operating Concept. The level of evidence generated is unparalleled and enables the Army to make informed policy choices. I am proud of the team for all they have achieved, and the receipt of the commendation is well deserved.”
Dstl’s Chief Executive, Dr Paul Hollinshead, expressed his immense pride in the recognition received by the organization’s experts in the 2024 New Year Honours. He commended their unwavering commitment to providing the best guidance and advice to the Defence sector, acknowledging their incredible achievements and wishing them continued success.
