We were delighted to host the Technician Commitment’s first ever signatory event in Northern Ireland on 15th May 2025 at Riddel Hall. As one of the founding signatories of the Technician Commitment, it was a privilege to welcome over 80 delegates from more than 70 universities, research institutions and supporter organisations across the UK, to Queen's.

With the sun shining in the city, Riddel Hall was the perfect setting to gather to highlight the vital contributions and increasing recognition of technical staff across the higher education and research sectors.

The day was opened by Dr Kelly Vere MBE, Technician Commitment Programme Lead, who shared the latest updates from the initiative, including news of new signatories, important upcoming dates such as the Times Higher Education Outstanding Technician of the Year Award, and fresh funding opportunities from the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy (UK ITSS).

A warm welcome to Belfast was given by Professor Alan Stitt, Dean of Innovation & Impact at Queen’s, who highlighted the significant contribution of the University’s technical staff – from early diagnosis of eye disease using community retinal scans, to advances in research infrastructure across campus.

The event featured a range of speakers including Duncan Shermer (REF Evaluation and Development), Professor Hugh McKenna (Ulster University), and representatives from UK ITSS, Northumbria University and the University of Salford, who explored vital themes such as REF 2029, research culture, and career pathway development.

Gillian Riddell, Technician Commitment Manager at Queen's University, presented alongside Dermot Barry on behalf of the All-Ireland Network. Gillian commented:

“Queen's is proud to be a founding signatory of the Technician Commitment. It was an honour to host the 14th signatory event, and the very first to be held in Northern Ireland - welcoming colleagues from across the UK to Belfast.”

The afternoon sessions included interactive discussions on future-proofing technical careers and regional mapping activities, followed by a networking reception in the Isdell Courtyard, where awards were presented for recent action plans and self-assessments submitted by participating institutions.

Thanks to all who attended and to those who helped to make the day such a success.