Last year’s winner, Joseph Birch, from SJJ System Services, has been working in the complex and specialist area of environmental test chambers for over 30 years. Described by his employer as “an amazing engineer and person, never phased by change,” he stood out amongst the candidates nominated due to his strong personal commitment to developing his knowledge in all aspects of this work, with a clear vision of the future needs in his area of work and his contribution to protecting the environment.

Some of Mr Birch’s most notable jobs include test chambers for the military for shooting frozen chicken carcasses, as well as growth rooms for various creatures including giant cockroaches. Whilst he is still some way off retirement he is already helping to pass his knowledge on to next generation, having supported the company’s apprentices for the past four years.

Miriam Rodway, chief executive for the Institute of Refrigeration, remarks: “This award is always a favourite at the IOR dinner. There are some amazing stories to be told about how incredibly important service engineers are not only because their contribution is vital and they are the mainstay of our sector, but also because they are more often than not the face of RACHP to the wider public and a great inspiration for the next generation.”

To be nominated, candidates must be working in any refrigeration, air conditioning or heat pump related field in a service, maintenance or installation role. They must also have substantial experience in a technician level role and still be active in the industry.

Candidates can be nominated by their employer, clients or colleagues. The winner will be invited to attend the IOR dinner as a guest of the president and receive a cash prize, an engraved trophy and a certificate.

The IOR annual dinner will be held on 27 February 2020 in London.