What does being a BCS Fellow (and the recognition it provides) mean to you?

Becoming a BCS Fellow represents a significant professional honour and a marker of distinction within the global technology community. Fellowship from a respected Chartered Institute acknowledges sustained contributions to the advancement of computing, ethical leadership, and service to society. For me, it validates years of work in cybersecurity, cryptography, and responsible innovation while reinforcing a continued responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the profession at a national and international level.

What advice would you give to future BCS Fellows?

Aim to create impact that extends beyond your immediate role. Build a record that demonstrates leadership, innovation, and professional integrity. Share your knowledge through publications, conference contributions, mentoring, and active engagement in professional bodies. Fellowship is both recognition of past achievements and a commitment to shaping the future of the profession by supporting others and upholding the highest standards.

As a Fellow, what positive change have you helped to create?

My work has focused on advancing secure identity systems, cryptographic automation, and the responsible integration of artificial intelligence. These contributions have strengthened the security and resilience of large scale cloud platforms used across industry. Through leadership roles, community engagement, and mentoring, I have helped promote ethical technology design and greater awareness of cybersecurity best practice. I have also played an active role in international professional communities such as ACM and IEEE, creating opportunities for technologists and students globally to engage with emerging technologies and contribute to a more secure digital ecosystem.

Why are trusted professionals more important than ever?

Technology underpins decisions that affect public safety, privacy, financial stability, and national infrastructure. The rapid evolution of AI and cybersecurity threats makes it essential that professionals are competent, ethical, accountable, and inclusive. Trusted practitioners help ensure that systems remain safe, fair, and resilient, and that society can rely on technology to support critical services without compromising public confidence.

How can organisations ensure they have such individuals working for them?

Organisations can build a trusted workforce by investing in continuous professional development, supporting recognised industry certifications and Chartered pathways, and fostering a culture where ethical decision making is prioritised. Encouraging diversity and inclusion helps bring a broader set of perspectives into system design and governance. Clear accountability frameworks aligned with professional codes of conduct further reinforce responsible practice at all levels.

What does 'Making IT Good for Society' mean to you?

To me, it reflects a commitment to using technology as a force for positive societal progress. It involves designing systems that protect individuals, promote inclusion, and improve quality of life. It also means ensuring that innovation aligns with ethical principles, transparency, and public trust. As professionals, we have a duty to ensure technology benefits everyone and strengthens society in a sustainable and responsible way.

What words of inspiration do you have for those considering a tech career?

Technology offers tremendous opportunities for those who are curious, determined, and committed to lifelong learning. Focus on solving meaningful problems and building strong ethical foundations. A career in technology is shaped by passion, integrity, and resilience. Anyone can make a lasting contribution by approaching challenges with a desire to learn, to create, and to make a positive difference.