Published 16 November 2019.

Ross Hill (DE&S) and Caryl Russell (SDA) narrowly missed out on top honours at the Women in Defence Awards in London.

Ross (Joint Enablers Occupational Health & Safety Environmental Co-Ordinator) had made the final three in the Unsung Heroes category while Carol (In Service Submarines Project Chief Engineer) had achieved the same in the Outstanding Contribution category.

This year, the prestigious awards that recognise the value of women in defence attracted over 900 entries across armed forces, MOD Civil Service, defence industry and defence 3rd sector.

Angela Owen, founder of Women in Defence UK says: “Yet again, we’ve been blown away by the inspiring achievements and courage of the finalists and winners. These are truly exceptional people, who deserve to be celebrated. They exemplify our watchwords for the year ‘Deeds not Words’, as rather than comment or complain, they actively work to make defence a better place for all.”

Four more DE&S employees – Jan Riches (DES Warship Support – Type 23 Power Generation Machinery Upgrade project manager), Sue Temple (DE&S QEC Warship Support), Jo Osburn (Head of Maritime Combat Systems) and Emily Newton (British Embassy Nuclear & Strategic Deterrent and Threat Reduction) had also made the wider shortlist for their respective categories.

Ross, speaking to Desider earlier this year around advice for those looking to win, said: “Look for work that inspires you, and don’t give up at the tough fences. If you are not fulfilled in your work, then you need to find something new to challenge you.”