champions and supports the lifesaving work of the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities, which provide advanced pre-hospital care to patients experiencing life-threatening injury or illness.

The partnership officially began on 1st March 2026, when MINI´«Ã½â€™s new President, Jen Vickers commenced her presidency. The association’s Annual Awards on 7th May 2026 will be the first major fundraising activity for the partnership, with members encouraged to support AAUK through a variety of initiatives at the awards and throughout the two-year term.

Air ambulance charities are funded almost entirely by donations, with each mission costing on average £4,165*. This partnership will help ensure air ambulance crews can continue delivering rapid, lifesaving care across the UK.

Jen Vickers, MINI´«Ã½ President, said: “We’re proud to support Air Ambulances UK as our charity partner for the next two years. Their lifesaving work across the UK aligns closely with our values, and we look forward to engaging our members in fundraising activities that make a real difference for air ambulance crews and the patients they serve.â€�

Mark Heaven, Head of Corporate Fundraising at Air Ambulances UK, said: “Air ambulance charities are ready to respond 24/7, but they rely on support from partners like MINI´«Ã½ to keep their critical care teams flying. We’re thrilled to be chosen as MINI´«Ã½â€™s charity for the next two years and look forward to working with their members to raise vital funds that will directly help save lives across the UK.â€�

MINI´«Ã½ members will have the opportunity to take part in fundraising and awareness-raising activities throughout the two years, helping to highlight the crucial role air ambulance charities play in the UK’s emergency response system.

*Costs vary depending on location, operational models, and patient needs.

 You can show your support via our donations page 

Taking on this role at a time when our sector faces both significant challenges and genuine opportunities is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Today, the role of building controls sits firmly at the centre of how modern buildings perform. As expectations around safety, sustainability and building performance continue to rise, building energy management systems (BEMS) are fundamental to how buildings operate, adapt and deliver value throughout their lifecycle.

Over the next two years, my focus is clear: raising awareness of our industry and making it a career of choice; retaining existing talent by ensuring we have the right training, career and development pathways in place; and ensuring MINI´«Ã½ membership delivers real, tangible value and visibility to all our members.

Tackling the Skills Shortage

The skills shortage is not a new conversation, but it remains one of the biggest barriers to the ongoing sustainability and growth of the industry. This leads to heightened competition for experienced engineers. If we want to strengthen the future of building controls, we need to attract and train the next generation of engineers.

For me, that means making our industry more visible and more attractive - whether to young people starting their careers, individuals looking to retrain, or those returning to work. Building controls offers highly skilled, future-facing careers focused on sustainability and innovation. Our challenge is increasing awareness of opportunities.

Apprenticeships: Building the Pipeline

The BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship programme was a major milestone for our industry. Seeing the 50th apprentice recently complete the programme is something we should all be proud of.

With around 280 apprentices currently on programme, the pipeline is strengthening and that represents genuine progress. Thanks go to Group Horizon, Verge and the Employers Working Group for their ongoing dedication and commitment.

However, apprenticeships are only part of the picture. We need to attract people to these apprenticeship opportunities and create clear progression routes beyond that entry point. One area I would particularly like to see progress during my presidency is the development of a degree pathway for building controls as part of an established Building Services Engineering degree, to ensure those working within the sector can develop professionally. 

T-Levels: Opening Doors Earlier

One way of attracting young people into the industry is through T-Level work placements.

When we speak to students about building controls, the reality is that most have never heard of it. They may understand mechanical and electrical engineering at a high level, but they are often unaware of the specialist systems that sit behind how buildings operate.

For many young people, once the role of building controls is explained, it quickly becomes an attractive career prospect. The sector combines engineering with digital skills such as programming, data analysis and smart technologies, while also playing a direct role in improving energy efficiency and supporting the transition to more sustainable buildings. For students who want to work with technology while making a tangible environmental impact, building controls offers a compelling career path.

I’ve seen first-hand how effective T-Levels can be when young people are given the chance to experience the industry properly. When given the opportunity for a work placement, the response is overwhelmingly positive. The appetite is there, but awareness is not.

Work placements play a crucial role as they allow young people to experience the industry while giving employers the opportunity to engage with the next generation of talent.

As an Association, we will continue supporting employers in taking on T-Level students, reducing perceived barriers and sharing the mutual benefits. It is about supporting education and attracting young talent who will be the future of our industry.

Competency and the Building Safety Act Landscape

Following the Building Safety Act, the MINI´«Ã½ has been tasked with being the responsible organisation for the Building Controls and Automation sub-sector and is tasked with developing a sector-specific competence framework.   

Over a few months, we have undertaken industry consultation around the revalidation of competency. This work is now progressing through a dedicated working group exploring how this framework should work in practice. Aligning with other professional careers where competency is clearly recognised and validated is the right step for our sector, helping to demonstrate the expertise, competence and professionalism that exists across the building controls community.

Our sector must be able to demonstrate initial and ongoing professional competence. Strengthening competency frameworks helps protect the reputation of our industry, builds trust with clients and ensures we remain aligned with the wider regulatory direction of travel.

Making Building Controls Visible

The sector needs visibility to be able to attract the talent and recognition it deserves.

Part of MINI´«Ã½â€™s role must be to raise that awareness and not only within the industry but also more broadly. I would love to see building controls become something the “person on the streetâ€� recognises. Greater visibility matters not only for public understanding but also for the people who influence policy and for those considering future career options.

Longer term, that also means positioning MINI´«Ã½ as the authoritative voice when policy conversations take place. When building performance, energy strategy or regulatory changes are being discussed, building controls expertise must be part of that conversation. The recent MINI´«Ã½ technical white paper, launched at the House of Lords, is an important starting point for that dialogue. It highlights the critical role intelligent building controls play in improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions and supporting national net zero ambitions. Our aim now is to ensure that this evidence helps inform future policy discussions and strengthens recognition of the sector’s role in delivering better-performing buildings.

Delivering Value for Members

Visibility of the Association is important for our members to know that we’re there as a source of support. It’s fantastic to see MINI´«Ã½ membership continuing to grow but keeping our members engaged and supported is just as important as welcoming new companies into the Association.

My priority is to ensure your MINI´«Ã½ membership delivers real, practical value, making sure we are genuinely listening to what you need from us. Whether your challenges are technical, commercial or regulatory, the Association is here as a source of guidance, support and connection. Our Management Committee is elected by the membership and exists to represent you, ensuring the direction of the Association reflects the priorities and needs of the businesses we serve.

Our recent Building Safety Act workshops are a great example of this in action. They were developed directly from member feedback and demonstrate what we can achieve when we listen carefully and respond with something meaningful. We will continue to invest in initiatives that provide added value for members and deliver practical support that helps businesses navigate industry change.

I want members to feel confident in telling us what would make their membership even more valuable: whether that’s stronger political representation, clearer technical guidance, enhanced training pathways or more opportunities to connect with peers. It should always be a two-way conversation. Events such as our breakfast meetings provide a great forum for developing ideas, sharing insight and helping us better understand what our members want from their Association.

Looking Ahead

I am very much looking forward to working closely with Ron Purcell in his role as Vice President. We bring different perspectives and experiences, and I believe that balance is a real strength for the Association. The challenges facing our sector, from skills and competency to policy and market awareness, require collaborative leadership.

Ron shares my commitment to raising standards and strengthening the industry for the long term, and together we are focused on ensuring that MINI´«Ã½ remains responsive, progressive and firmly aligned with the needs of its members.

Strong leadership is never about one individual. It is about a team that listens, challenges constructively and moves the industry forward with clarity and purpose. That includes the expertise and dedication of our Management Committee and the many working groups that contribute their time and knowledge. This collaborative effort plays a vital role in shaping the Association’s direction and ensuring that the work we do reflects the needs of the wider membership.

Building controls is about doing things properly, improving buildings and contributing to sustainability in a meaningful way.

I look forward to working with our members, Management Committee, partners and the MINI´«Ã½ team as we continue working together to secure the future of our industry.

The Association’s latest Market Information Report shows total industry revenues for Products, Installed Systems and Service & Maintenance supplied into the UK market fell slightly in Q4 2025 to £207.5 million, a 1.2% decrease compared with the previous quarter.

Despite this marginal quarterly softening, the overall annual picture indicates a resilient sector, with total market value rising by 0.1% year-on-year across 2025.

Product supply remains steady

Product revenues increased modestly during the final quarter of the year, rising by 0.5% to £39.0 million. OEM sales continued to recover, although distributor channels remained more subdued.

Across the full year, product performance was mixed, with growth in OEM activity helping offset weaker demand through distribution channels. Overall, Product supply remained broadly stable and accounted for just under one-fifth of total market value.

Installed systems activity eases

Installation Value Added declined by 2.3% in Q4 to £110.5 million, reflecting softer installation activity across parts of the market during the year.

On an annual basis, installed systems revenues also eased slightly. However, the proportion of value added within installed systems remained stable, underlining the continued importance of engineering expertise, commissioning and integrated system delivery in modern building performance.

Service and maintenance continues to grow

Service and Maintenance once again proved to be one of the most resilient areas of the sector. While revenues dipped slightly in the final quarter, the segment recorded annual growth of 2.1%, reaching £220.1 million and increasing its share of overall market value.

The continued expansion of service activity reflects the growing importance of long-term system optimisation, maintenance and building performance management across commercial estates.

Industry outlook for 2026

Overall, the data suggests that while 2025 did not deliver strong headline growth, the market demonstrated notable resilience. Stable product demand, consistent system pricing structures and continued expansion in service revenues helped maintain overall market value.

As the industry moves into 2026, the report suggests a market environment characterised more by consolidation and careful investment than rapid expansion.

Jen Vickers, President of the Building Controls Industry Association, said: “While the latest figures show a slight softening in activity during the final quarter of 2025, the overall picture is one of resilience. The building controls sector continues to play a vital role in helping buildings operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and supporting the transition to net zero.

The continued growth in service and maintenance also reflects a broader shift in how buildings are managed, with organisations increasingly recognising the value of optimising existing systems and improving operational performance. As we move into 2026, the focus across the industry will be on steady investment, skills development and ensuring building controls remain central to delivering smarter, more efficient buildings.�

The MINI´«Ã½ publishes its Market Intelligence Report quarterly, providing detailed data on trends, revenues and growth opportunities across the BEMS sector.

The current Managing Director of 1 Control, a people first, engineer led business dedicated to making building controls simpler, smarter, and genuinely usable, Ben has built an impressive reputation as an advocate for practical, high quality engineering across the built environment. His hands-on experience and commitment to long term system performance make him the ideal choice to lead the MINI´«Ã½â€™s Technical Working Group at a time of rapid change for the industry.

The Technical Working Group plays a key role in developing a balanced MINI´«Ã½ view on important technical matters. It leads on publishing technical guidance, identifying emerging technical and technological developments that impact the industry, and helping to create information and learning programmes for members. The group also provides input into standards and technical documentation to ensure the MINI´«Ã½ continues to represent and support the needs of the building controls community.

Passionate about ensuring that the sector grows in a way that supports innovation, diversity, and integrity, Ben places great importance on collaboration over hierarchy. He said: “I’m excited to take on the Chair position at a time when our industry is evolving quickly. As systems become more connected and expectations rise, we need standards and leadership that are practical, collaborative and grounded in real experience. If we support independent expertise, develop new talent and widen participation, we’ll continue to strengthen what is already a very capable sector.�

MINI´«Ã½ Executive Officer, Catherine Walker commented: “Ben’s depth of technical expertise and understanding of how building controls work in practice make him an exceptional choice for the role of Technical Working Group Chair. His knowledge of the sector and commitment to raising standards will serve the association and its members extremely well. Building on the excellent work of our longstanding previous Chair, Richard Bush, Ben brings both experience and enthusiasm, and I’m confident his leadership will help the group continue to strengthen the technical foundation and credibility of our industry.â€�

Ben believes that the success of any building, in energy efficiency, resilience, and occupant comfort, relies on well designed, maintainable control systems. With extensive experience and a strong commitment to improving clarity, consistency, and training across the profession, he aims to help the MINI´«Ã½ continue driving progress through simpler standards, honest communication, and systems that truly deliver.

Ben will use his extensive technical expertise and collaborative approach to lead the Technical Working Group in its mission to provide clear technical guidance, anticipate emerging trends, and shape the standards and learning resources that help advance the building controls industry.

Following another year of exceptional entries, the judging panel faced the challenging task of selecting this year’s shortlist. The breadth and quality of submissions once again reflect the strength, technical expertise and commitment that exist throughout the building controls community.

Winners will be revealed at the MINI´«Ã½ Awards ceremony and dinner, taking place at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham on Thursday 7 May 2026, where industry leaders, innovators and future talent will come together to celebrate the achievements shaping the future of intelligent buildings.

MINI´«Ã½ President, Jen Vickers, said: “The MINI´«Ã½ Awards continue to showcase the very best of our sector. This year’s finalists demonstrate not only technical excellence and innovation, but also a deep commitment to professionalism, sustainability and developing the next generation of talent.

“The standard of entries was incredibly high, making the judging process both rigorous and rewarding. On behalf of the MINI´«Ã½ and our judges, I would like to congratulate every finalist. Your achievements highlight the vital role building controls and automation play in delivering safe, sustainable and high-performing buildings.â€�

This year, the MINI´«Ã½ would also like to acknowledge with great sadness that one of our finalists, Graham Neilson, passed away on 31 January 2026. Graham’s contribution to the industry and his dedication to professionalism and excellence will be remembered by colleagues and peers across the sector. The MINI´«Ã½ extends its sincere condolences to his family, friends and all who worked with him.

Finalists of the MINI´«Ã½ Awards 2026 are as follows:

Building Controls and BEMS Company of the Year Sponsored by Trend Control Systems

1 Control Systems

andOr Systems

Crown House Technologies

Global Associates

Linear Control Systems Ltd

SSE Energy Solutions

Engineer of the Year Sponsored by Johnson Controls

Matt Chivers, E.ON Control Solutions

Jason Edmed, 1 Control

Graham Neilson, Crown House Technologies (sadly passed away 31 January 2026)

Daniel Sedgwick, SSE Energy Solutions

David Whitehead, E.ON Control Solutions

Jonathan Woolford, Schneider Electric

Young Engineer of the Year

Ashley Laing, E.ON Controls Solutions

Phil Nash, Mitie Energy

Kieran Oake, E.ON Control Solutions

Sophie Osborne, Lloret

Daniel Sedgwick, SSE Energy Solutions

George Stephens-Clark, InTandem Systems

Apprentice of the Year Sponsored by Group Horizon

Neisha Barnsley, E.ON Control Solutions

Leah Duck, Crown House Technologies

Rivah Kirby, Kendra Energy Solutions

Jack Savage, SSE Energy Solutions

William Sebatch, Schneider Electric

Ryan Winter, SSE Energy Solutions

Energy Innovation and Impact Award Sponsored by Priva Building Automation

3mse, Boiler Strategy Modifications for CBRE & Savills

BMSI, E60+ Programme

Cosysense, AI Building Automation

E.ON Control Solutions, Retrofit Energy Solution for CBRE

Schneider Electric, Building Data Platform at NHS National Rehabilitation Centre

Smart Managed Solutions, Intelligent Energy Optimisation for Savills

Best Service and Maintenance Provider Sponsored by Western Automation

3mse

BMSI

DAE Energy Solutions

Global Associates

Kendra Energy Solutions

Schneider Electric

Technical Innovation of the Year – Products Sponsored by CIBSE

Bubll Automation, Sentinll AI Consultant

Cosysense, AI Building Automation

Distech Controls, Resense Move

J2 Innovations, NEXIO

Schneider Electric, EcoStruxure Building Activate

Siemens Buildings, Siemens Intelligent Valve

Technical Innovation of the Year – Projects

andOr Systems, Blue Fin Building AHU Decarbonisation

BMSI, E60+ Intelligent Energy Optimisation

Fantom Factory, Big Bytes for Fast Food! A SkySpark delivery

Lockheed Martin, Connected, Resilient, Intelligent: A New Era of Facilities

Mitie, Transforming Building Management (Rolls Building)

System Five, a 4energy group company, LightFi Sustainability Project

Sustainability Strategy Champion Sponsored by Electrical & Mechanical Controls

Karl Phan BEng (Hons), Organon Pharmaceutical

Platinum Energy, Platinum Facilities Services

Platinum Facilities Services

Savills Engineering

The Francis Crick Institute

The Scalpel FM Team

Contribution to Training Sponsored by MINI´«Ã½ Training

3mse

One Sightsolutions

Schneider Electric

Sontay Academy

Outstanding Contribution of the Year Sponsored by MINI´«Ã½

Winner to be announced at the Awards ceremony.

Jen succeeds Stacey Lucas, who has served as MINI´«Ã½ President for the past two years, helping to strengthen the association’s voice within the building services and wider built environment sector.

Reflecting on her presidency, Stacey Lucas said: “It has been an absolute privilege to serve as MINI´«Ã½ President over the past two years. During that time, we have made significant progress in raising awareness of the role building energy management systems play in improving building performance and supporting the UK’s energy and carbon reduction goals. I am incredibly proud of what the Association and its members have achieved together and grateful for the dedication of the MINI´«Ã½ team and wider community. I have every confidence that Jen will build on this momentum and continue to strengthen the Association’s impact.â€�

Jen Vickers has worked for Crown House Technologies, part of Laing O’Rourke, since 2015 and brings significant industry experience to the role. She has served as MINI´«Ã½ Vice President for the past two years and has been actively involved in a number of key initiatives aimed at strengthening the future of the sector.

These include helping to launch the MINI´«Ã½ Young Engineers Network (YEN) and establishing it as a formal working group within the Association, as well as supporting the development of the Building Controls apprenticeship programme, which is helping to build a pipeline of new talent entering the industry.

Taking on the role, Jen said: “I would like to recognise the outstanding contribution Stacey has made during her presidency. Thanks to her leadership and the work of the wider MINI´«Ã½ community, the Association is in a strong position as we look to the future. Building controls sits at the centre of how modern buildings perform, and over the coming years my focus will be on raising awareness of our industry, strengthening skills and training pathways, and ensuring MINI´«Ã½ membership continues to deliver real value for our members.â€�

Jen will work closely with new MINI´«Ã½ Vice President Ron Purcell as the Association continues to champion the role of building controls across the built environment.

Ron Purcell said: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of Vice President and supporting Jen and the Association. The building controls sector has a critical role to play in improving building performance and delivering more sustainable, energy-efficient buildings, and I look forward to working with the MINI´«Ã½ team and our members to help drive the industry forward.â€�

Together, Jen and Ron will work closely with the MINI´«Ã½ Management Committee and wider membership as the Association continues to champion the role of building controls in delivering safer, more efficient and more sustainable buildings.

Permalink

]]>Announcing our new President and Vice PresidentRachael Zaidel LambMon, 23 Feb 2026 13:55:15 +0000/news/the-warm-homes-plan-must-go-further-why-smart-building-controls-for-non-domestic-buildings-are-essential-to-the-uks-net-zero-economic-and-public-health-goals659d81c2d781b9569b0d1008:659d8219d781b9569b0d1ce6:699c5c439c5da16212508a09If the UK is to meet its legally binding climate targets while supporting economic growth and public service resilience, it must confront a critical policy blind spot: the decarbonisation of non-domestic buildings. The Government’s Warm Homes Plan reinforces the importance of energy efficiency, yet its focus on the domestic sector leaves a substantial share of energy use, emissions and economic opportunity largely unaddressed.

Commercial and public buildings account for a significant proportion of national energy demand and carbon output, but policy support for this sector remains fragmented and short-term. Official government statistics show that non-domestic buildings are responsible for while the has repeatedly warned that current policies fall well short of what is required to meet future carbon budgets.

This gap matters not only for climate delivery, but for the resilience of public services, the competitiveness of UK businesses, as well as the health and productivity of millions of people who occupy these buildings every day. At a time of sustained pressure on energy costs, public finances and workforce outcomes, the absence of a clear, long-term strategy for non-domestic buildings represents a missed opportunity to deploy proven, cost-effective solutions at scale.

One such solution - advanced Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) - is already delivering measurable carbon savings, operational cost reductions and improvements in indoor environmental quality across a broad range of non-domestic buildings including offices, schools and hospitals. Yet despite robust evidence and widespread availability, building controls remain underrepresented in national policy. This must change.

Building controls: central to delivering carbon budgets

The Building Controls Industry Association’s (MINI´«Ã½) recent technical white paper, , demonstrates that upgrading existing non-domestic buildings to Class A and Class B controls represents one of the most effective decarbonisation interventions available to the Government.

The analysis shows that upgrading commercial and public sector buildings to advanced controls could deliver 15 million tonnes of COâ‚‚e savings between 2026 and 2035. This equates to around 5% of all emissions produced by England and Wales in 2023, based on the UK’s official greenhouse gas inventory. 

The Climate Change Committee’s Seventh Carbon Budget reinforces the scale of this opportunity, concluding that energy management, instrumentation and control measures could deliver up to 60% of the energy-efficiency-related emissions reductions required in public and commercial buildings by 2040. This places BEMS at the core of the UK’s decarbonisation pathway, not as an enabling technology, but as a primary delivery mechanism.

The evidence is unambiguous - without rapid, large-scale deployment of advanced building controls, the UK will struggle to meet its future carbon budgets in the non-domestic sector.

Value for money in a constrained fiscal environment

Energy policy must reflect fiscal reality. Public sector budgets remain under pressure, while businesses continue to absorb elevated operating costs following years of energy price volatility. In this context, solutions with long payback periods or high capital requirements are difficult to scale quickly.

Advanced building controls offer a compelling alternative. MINI´«Ã½â€™s analysis shows that Class A and Class B BEMS typically deliver payback within 4–9 years, depending on building type. Over a ten-year period, net financial savings remain positive even after upfront installation costs:

• Offices over 1,000 m²: £23,485 saving

• Schools: £3,504 saving

• Hospitals: £7,293 saving

For offices in particular, BEMS are among the most cost-effective carbon abatement measures available, outperforming air source heat pumps, insulation upgrades and solar PV when assessed on a cost-per-tonne basis.

A typical 1,000 m² office can save 105 tonnes of CO₂e over ten years, delivering a net saving of £224 per tonne of carbon abated. At a national level, this represents exceptional value for money, especially compared with technologies that require extensive grid upgrades or long-term structural change.

Health, productivity and economic resilience

The benefits of advanced building controls extend well beyond energy and carbon. Modern BEMS continuously monitor COâ‚‚ levels, humidity and indoor pollutants, adjusting heating and ventilation systems in real time to maintain healthy indoor environments.

The relationship between indoor air quality, health outcomes and cognitive performance is increasingly recognised across government. MINI´«Ã½â€™s white paper indicates that improved indoor environments enabled by advanced controls could reduce sickness absence sufficiently to save over £1 billion annually across the UK economy - a finding consistent with assessments of the economic cost of workplace ill health.

In education, the case is particularly strong. Installing Class A BEMS in schools could prevent around 2 million sick days every year, while enabling 552,000 more pupils to succeed in their national exams. These outcomes align directly with government priorities on educational attainment, workforce readiness and long-term productivity.

In offices, the economic impact is even more pronounced. By improving comfort, wellbeing and attendance, advanced building controls could generate £5.29 billion in annual Gross Value Added, rising to £12.75 billion by 2050 as adoption scales. These gains directly support the Government’s stated ambition to raise productivity and unlock sustainable economic growth

Policy certainty is now critical

With the scheduled to conclude in 2028, there is an urgent need for clarity on successor mechanisms. Without a clear long-term framework, investment risks stalling just as delivery must accelerate.

MINI´«Ã½ supports the exploration of public-private partnership models to unlock sustained investment in public sector estates. However, private finance will only flow at scale where the Government provides clear direction, consistent standards and long-term policy certainty for non-domestic buildings. 

As the UK’s only trade association dedicated exclusively to building controls and automation, MINI´«Ã½ and its members are committed to working with the Government to close this gap. The technology is proven, the evidence is robust, and the economic, social and environmental benefits are clear.

Smart buildings as national infrastructure

Advanced building controls are not a secondary consideration within the Warm Homes agenda - they are essential national infrastructure for a low-carbon, productive and healthy UK.

By placing BEMS at the heart of policy for non-domestic buildings, the Government can deliver rapid emissions reductions, reduce pressure on public finances, improve health outcomes and unlock billions in economic value.

MINI´«Ã½â€™s position is clear and resolute: smart building controls are one of the fastest, most cost-effective and impactful routes to Net Zero - and the UK cannot afford to delay their widespread adoption.

A major driver of this growing recognition has been our consistent, strategic approach to influencing policy. Over the past two years, we’ve focused on educating policymakers and Ministers about what BEMS are – and, crucially, what they can deliver. This journey began with Lord Callanan’s keynote at our 2024 Members’ Conference, but a defining milestone was the launch of the MINI´«Ã½â€™s first Technical Paper at the House of Lords in October 2025, hosted by former Minister for Energy Security & Net Zero Lord Callanan. Keynote speaker Bill Esterson MP, Chair of the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee, reinforced the importance of the event and further positioned MINI´«Ã½ as the authoritative voice on BMS/BEMS technology.

Alongside these landmark moments, we have maintained ongoing engagement with senior civil servants, the Building Safety Regulator and other influential policy shapers. These conversations are strengthening understanding of how BEMS can underpin and support policy objectives - and that work is beginning to bear fruit, with BEMS now highlighted as a key technology in the 7th Carbon Budget. This recognition represents a clear signal that our advocacy is translating into national policy awareness.

Keeping members informed and connected to our advocacy work has remained central to our approach. Members recognise that influencing policy is essential not only for market growth, but also for raising standards and strengthening the reputation of MINI´«Ã½ member companies as industry experts.

Our focus on skills development continues to progress at pace. A major highlight of 2025 was the first cohort of apprentices completing their three year higher-level apprenticeship to become qualified Building Controls Engineers. With 324 apprentices currently on programme, we have established a strong and sustainable pipeline of new talent entering the industry. Alongside this, we continue to train more than 550 individuals each year and have introduced an Experienced Worker Assessment, providing a route for skilled professionals without formal qualifications to obtain competency cards to become qualified Building Controls Engineers.

On the marketing and communications front, I have been proud to champion MINI´«Ã½â€™s refreshed approach to engaging both members and external stakeholders. Over the past 12 months, we have launched a short animation explaining what BEMS are, introduced a comprehensive Members’ Guide to help members maximise value, established a CEO Network to encourage strategic industry-wide dialogue, and launched a new Members’ Networking series, bringing MINI´«Ã½ closer to members across the UK.

Our annual Building Controls Industry Association Awards remain a standout moment in the MINI´«Ã½ calendar. In 2025 we saw a record number of nominations and achieved a full sellout - further evidence of the industry’s growing energy, engagement and ambition.

Strengthening MINI´«Ã½â€™s profile across the wider market has been another key objective. We have continued to expand our presence at roundtables, on podcasts, in industry publications and at conferences - ensuring the benefits of building controls are clearly and consistently articulated at a national level.

Finally, I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the support shown towards my chosen President’s Charity, Carers UK - a cause that is very close to me personally. Together, we raised an incredible amount of over £10,000, which the charity has gratefully received as it continues its vital work supporting the UK’s 5.8 million unpaid carers.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years as President– it has flown by – and while I am naturally a little sad that the role is coming to an end, I am immensely proud of what the Association has achieved during this time and for the brilliant efforts of all of the team. The credibility of our industry on the wider stage has grown significantly as a result of the initiatives delivered and the dedication of the MINI´«Ã½ team.

Our internal capacity has also strengthened, now comprising three full-time staff: the remarkable Catherine Walker as Executive Officer, Rachael Zaidel Lamb leading Marketing and Engagement, and Tracey Cartwright overseeing Training. This is a clear indication of the Industry and the Association going from strength to strength.

With the fabulous Jen Vickers moving into the Presidential role and bringing her own valuable strengths, I am confident that the momentum will only continue to build.

The seeds are now firmly planted with key stakeholders including policy makers and influential committees, alongside increased engagement and influence with consultants and specifiers who play a crucial role in how our systems are designed.

I leave the role with genuine excitement for what lies ahead for our beloved industry and for the brilliant bunch of people that make it not only a wonderful place to work, but a key player in the future of our buildings and their performance. We are most certainly here to stay and continually grow as the need for what we do becomes ever more important.

Two out of three people in the UK will become carers at some time in their lives. With that in mind, it’s absolutely imperative there is a charity that looks to help, advise and support carers in the UK. That’s exactly where Carers UK comes in. The charity provides help and support for the 5.7 million carers across the whole of the UK.

MINI´«Ã½ president Stacey Lucas said the support given by charities such as Carers UK is absolutely invaluable. She said: “ Carers UK work hard to raise awareness and lobby the government to improve the lives of unpaid carers, as well as offer advice and support to those who desperately need it. So many people are touched by the need to care for a loved one, or will likely be in the future, so I feel this is a charity that speaks to all. Nobody realises how hard it is until you are in it.â€�

During the two years, Carers UK has been MINI´«Ã½â€™s chosen charity over £10,000 has been raised by MINI´«Ã½ and its members, something Stacey is very proud of, “I’m incredibly grateful for the support of everyone who has donated, challenged themselves and got involved with the MINI´«Ã½â€™s chosen charity for my presidency.  We have achieved a fantastic amount in these 2 years in raising funds and the profile of such a worthy cause.â€�

Stacey also explained that in this two years, there have been more people who are facing the challenges of being unpaid carers, “in the past 2 years, I know of many people who have taken on the role of a carer in some way – whether it’s giving the care, getting the care support initiated, fighting to get the care and support, juggling all of this and more.  This all represents a massive challenge to all involved and having a charity like Carers UK available to offer advice and guidance is so important. We may be coming to the end of our association, but this is certainly not the end of the story for many.â€�

Carers UK have shared the following message about the partnership:

As our partnership comes to an end, we would like to take this opportunity to thank MINI´«Ã½ and its members for their support and collaboration, as well as all the effort that went into raising over £10,000 for Carers UK.

Working with MINI´«Ã½ has been a privilege, and we are grateful for the commitment shown to Carers UK and to raising awareness of unpaid carers. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Stacey Lucas as she steps down as President, recognising her leadership and the positive contribution she has made throughout our partnership.

Laura Doughty, Director of Income Generation and Communications at Carers UK, said:
"I want to extend a huge thank you to Stacey Lucas, and all at MINI´«Ã½ and its members who have contributed so much to ensure the success of the partnership with Carers UK. With unpaid carers facing unprecedented challenges, the funds you have raised will make a big difference in making life better for carers, providing support through our national helpline and resources, as well as continuing to raise awareness of unpaid caring so that nobody has to care alone. Thank you, from us and the millions of unpaid carers throughout the country."

Whilst our partnership is coming to an end, the work we do at Carers UK continues. We would welcome MINI´«Ã½ members to stay in touch and follow the charity’s work as we continue to support unpaid carers across the UK. You can do this by becoming a (it’s free), , or helping create carer friendly workplaces through our membership programme. 

Thank you once again to everyone at MINI´«Ã½ for their support.

Andy’s recent work has included managing EMEA critical systems environmental monitoring for a large investment bank as well as building services commissioning. He has a strong interest in innovation and the convergence of sensing and IT within the IoT, and he’s also an experienced  tutor, delivering MINI´«Ã½ training on behalf of Sontay Academy, MINI´«Ã½ and Group Horizon.

In his new role, which he took up in early January, Andy will draw on his broad industry insight to develop technical content for MINI´«Ã½ technical training courses and the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship. He will be leading on a number of projects that aim to improve the specification and design process focused on increasing knowledge and understanding with Consultants, in addition  to producing technical publications for the association alongside his existing professional commitments. The role works closely with the Technical Working Group.

Commenting on his appointment, Andy said:

“Becoming a Technical Consultant with the Building Controls Industry Association marks an exciting new chapter in my journey through the building performance and automation sector. Over the years, I’ve witnessed the difference smart controls and data-driven design can make to how buildings operate and how people interact with them. The BEMS industry continues to evolve and innovate and I’m proud to be part of a community that’s driving that progress forward. Joining the MINI´«Ã½ is a chance to share my experience, learn from others, and contribute to making intelligent buildings the norm, not the exception.â€�

Catherine Walker, Executive Officer at the MINI´«Ã½, added:

“Andy is a highly talented BEMS professional, who has an exceptional knowledge of the industry and the technologies within it. We know our members will welcome him to the team and look forward to seeing the difference he can make to the association’s technical work.�

What they are and how they help employers

Introduction
When you are recruiting, having the right information about the people you hire is an important part of running a safe and trusted organisation. A Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a straightforward criminal record check that can support better recruitment decisions in a wide range of roles.

This blog explains what a Basic DBS check is, who can apply, how the process works, what it costs, what is disclosed on the certificate, and the benefits for employers.

What is a Basic DBS check and when might you use it?
A Basic DBS check provides information about an individual’s unspent convictions and conditional cautions, as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

A DBS check is a record of a person’s criminal convictions and cautions, DBS provides checks for people living or working in England, Wales, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Those in Scotland or Northern Ireland usually apply through Disclosure Scotland or AccessNI.

A Basic DBS check is the lowest level of DBS check. It shows details of any unspent convictions and conditional cautions held on the Police National Computer, under the terms of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

If a person has no unspent convictions or conditional cautions, the Basic DBS certificate will state that there is “no information held�.

Who can get a Basic DBS check?
DBS checks are very flexible.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; anyone aged 16 or over can apply for a Basic DBS check for themselves.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; a Basic check can be used for any role or purpose - there is no legislative eligibility test for this level of check, unlike Standard and Enhanced checks.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; a Basic DBS check can be obtained by people living or looking to live and work in England and Wales – including the Isle of Man and Channel Islands

This means employers can build Basic DBS checks into their recruitment process wherever they feel it is appropriate and proportionate. For example, roles that involve handling sensitive information, access to money or stock, visiting customers in their homes or working in positions of trust.

How do you apply for a Basic DBS check?
There are 2 main routes.

1. Individuals applying for themselves
Individuals can apply directly to DBS using the online Basic DBS application route on GOV.UK. To use this service, applicants will typically need:

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;  a GOV.UK One Login account (or they can create one as part of the process).

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;  address history for the last 5 years, including the dates they lived at each address.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;  identity documents, such as a passport or driving licence, and a National Insurance number if they have one.

Once the application is submitted and paid for, DBS processes the check and issues an online certificate. Paper certificates can be sent to any address specified by the applicant, including to a 3rd party.

2. Employers requesting checks for staff
Employers can:

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;  ask applicants to apply for their own Basic DBS check and then share the result.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;  use a Responsible Organisation – an organisation registered with DBS to submit large numbers of Basic checks on behalf of employers – to apply with the applicant’s consent.

Responsible Organisations may charge an additional administration fee for managing the process.

How much does a Basic DBS check cost?
A Basic DBS check currently costs £21.50 for all applicants, including volunteers. Payment can be made online using a debit or credit card, or digital wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. Applicants can pay during the application or choose to pay later, for example if an employer is covering the cost via the payment link sent by email. Where employers use a Responsible Organisation, that organisation may charge an extra administration fee on top of the DBS fee.

How long does a Basic DBS check take?
Basic DBS checks are designed to be quick.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; on average, it takes around 3 days to process a Basic DBS application, although it can sometimes take longer.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; recent DBS data shows that 88% of Basic DBS checks are completed within 48 hours.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; employers are advised to allow up to around 14 days in case additional checks are needed.

Once the check is complete, applicants who applied online and do not have conviction information can also view their result online and share it using a secure share code.

What information appears on a Basic DBS certificate?
A Basic DBS certificate will show:

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; details of any unspent convictions

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; details of any unspent conditional cautions

These are defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The Act sets out how long different sentences take to become “spent�, which is known as the . Once a conviction is spent, it is not disclosed on a Basic DBS check.

Some more serious offences never become spent. For example, certain serious violent, sexual or terrorism offences listed in Schedule 18 of the Sentencing Act 2020, and sentences given specifically for the protection of the public, will always be disclosed on a Basic DBS certificate.

If there are no unspent convictions or conditional cautions, the certificate will clearly state that there is no information held.

How can employers use the result?
Employers should:

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; ask applicants to share their Basic DBS certificate or, where available, use the online share code route.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; check that the certificate belongs to the applicant and that the details match.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; review any conviction information in line with their recruitment policy and the requirements of the role

A Basic DBS check should be one part of a wider, fair recruitment process. Employers should consider any information in context, including the nature of the offence, how long ago it took place, its relevance to the role and any evidence of rehabilitation, in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. Any concerns employers have with an applicant’s DBS check should be discussed with them directly.

What are the benefits of Basic DBS checks for employers?
Basic DBS checks offer a range of benefits for organisations of all sizes.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; Peace of mind
You can demonstrate that you have taken reasonable steps to understand whether staff or volunteers have unspent convictions that may be relevant to their role.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; Supports safer recruitment
Basic DBS checks help you make more informed decisions, particularly for roles involving access to sensitive information, customers’ homes, financial assets or other areas of trust.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; No eligibility restrictions
There are no eligibility requirements a role must meet for a Basic DBS check. This makes it easy to use Basic checks across a wide range of positions where you feel they are appropriate and proportionate.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; Quick and convenient
The online application process is simple and the majority of Basic DBS checks are completed within 48 hours, helping you keep recruitment moving.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; Affordable
At £21.50 per check, Basic DBS checks provide good value for money as part of your wider safeguarding and risk management approach.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; Reassurance for staff and customers
Using Basic DBS checks as part of a clear safer recruitment policy can help build trust with your workforce, service users and the wider public.

Bringing Basic DBS checks into your recruitment process
Basic DBS checks are a flexible, accessible tool that can enhance safer recruitment in many sectors. By understanding what they show, how to apply and how to use the results fairly, employers can:

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; strengthen their recruitment decisions.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; protect their organisation, staff and customers.

â–º&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è;&²Ô²ú²õ±è; support a transparent and proportionate approach to risk.

For full guidance on Basic DBS checks, including the online application route and detailed employer information, visit the DBS pages on For more information on Basic DBS Checks, please see our detailed guide

We will be sharing further content and resources by the DBS in the resources area of our

Non-domestic buildings account for more than a third of total carbon emissions from the UK built environment, yet the sector continues to lack a comprehensive strategy to drive energy efficiency and decarbonisation at scale. The Climate Change Committee has repeatedly warned of a “large and increasingly concerning policy gap for non-residential buildings�, and has consistently called for a clear, long-term plan to decarbonise the sector.

Many non-domestic buildings are in urgent need of energy efficiency upgrades. Businesses, hospitals, schools and other public sector organisations across the country are facing persistently high and often unaffordable energy costs, placing pressure on already stretched budgets. Against this backdrop, the absence of any new measures for non-domestic buildings represents a missed opportunity to contribute to the UK’s shared Net Zero targets, support these organisations with their energy bills, and improve the health and wellbeing of building occupants.

Commenting on the Plan, MINI´«Ã½ President Stacey Lucas said: “Given the scale of emissions from non-domestic buildings, it is deeply disappointing to see no new policies or funding set out for this sector in today’s Warm Homes Plan. The Climate Change Committee has been clear about the growing policy gap, and businesses and public sector bodies are already struggling with high energy costs. While it is positive to see the Government intends to explore private finance models, without a clear, immediate strategy for non-domestic buildings we risk missing both our climate targets and the opportunity to deliver cost and health benefits.â€�

The MINI´«Ã½ stresses that further clarity is needed. As the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) comes to an end in 2028, alternative approaches like Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to support the decarbonisation of the public sector estate will be essential to provide longer-term certainty and unlock investment.

The MINI´«Ã½ is calling on the Government to urgently publish its plans for decarbonising the non-domestic sector. A clear and comprehensive strategy would provide much-needed certainty for commerce, education, healthcare and the wider decarbonisation supply chain, enabling investment and delivery at the scale and pace required.

The MINI´«Ã½ and its members stand ready to work with Government to develop and implement solutions that improve energy performance, lower costs and accelerate decarbonisation across the UK’s non-domestic building stock.

Involved in the design, manufacture and commissioning of BMS control panels since 1971, Ray was the key driving force behind the development and implementation of ACE software – now more commonly known as SET and still utilised as a Trend configuration tool across the built environment industry today.  

Recognising the individual who has made a consistent and significant contribution to the development, reputation or growth of the building controls and BEMS industry and demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting the industry as a whole, the award rightfully acknowledged Ray Smith’s outstanding service and innovation.  

In fact, this year’s elegant awards ceremony, held at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham on 1st May, was the perfect setting to recognise what has been such a remarkable career in the building controls and automation sector.

The entry

Since 1971, Ray has been hands-on in the designing, manufacturing and commissioning of BMS control panels and technology, converting pneumatic control to analogue.

In the 1980s, he designed automated systems for plant rooms and then pioneered the use of PLC technology for HVAC applications.

This knowledge and experience were fundamental for him working on some very complex and technologically advanced projects, such as the delivery of dual redundancy control for the BBC TV Studios. Consequently, Ray’s work has helped prevent any disruption to broadcasting to this day.

Sanj Selli, Business Development Manager at Danfoss Ltd, highlighted Ray’s extensive expertise and inspiration to others in the industry. He said: “I have worked with Ray for more than 10 years. He’s a visionary. He’s inspirational and a role model for all young engineers with his knowledge and chain of thought for solving the toughest challenges on BMS and Fieldbus designs.�

Why they won

With a passion for engineering, Ray Smith founded Lloret Control Systems in 1983 with one key question in mind – “is there a way to make this easier?�

That prompted him to adopt Trend Control Systems’ products when they entered the market in 1984. In fact, he was one of the first people to do so.

The early IQ1 controller was often time-consuming to configure, leading Ray to observe similarities to his early adoption of AutoCAD and having to create batch files using tech-streams to enable him to print drawings overnight.

Ray used the same idea of creating a tech-stream to configure the Trend controllers, reducing the time it took to program.

Consequently, he worked alongside Trevor Marsden at Trend Control Systems to develop the code and create an automated Trend wiring diagram. The concept for this was originally entitled ‘ACE’, with Ray selling his design to Trend Control Systems in 1985.

The ACE software eventually evolved into what is now known as SET and is still the basis of the Trend configuration tool that’s utilised across the world today.  

Graeme Rees, Global EcoXpert Leader – Building Automation & Security at Schneider Electric, revealed how Ray’s innovation and expertise had shaped the industry. He said: “Ray has been a central figure in the intelligent building controls industry for 50 years or more. During this time, he has always been an innovator and leader.

“His drive and innovative mindset not only changed the approaches made by numerous manufacturers; they also (as a result) shifted the industry as a whole.�

Ray described the impact winning the award has had for him, “Being nominated and then becoming the recipient of this prestigious award has led me to consider what responsibilities we all own to ensue within the next generation.

I would suggest we should all:-

Aspire, inspire, innovate, push the boundaries, challenge the norms, remember there is always a better way and then leave a legacy of success.�

Find out more about the MINI´«Ã½ awards

While the wider construction industry saw its performance hampered by rising material costs and ongoing skilled labour shortages, the BEMS sector saw its total revenues rise to £210.1 million, according to the Building Controls Industry Association’s (MINI´«Ã½) latest market report.

MINI´«Ã½ President, Stacey Lucas, suggested the growth of the BEMS market was indicative of the built environment acknowledging the need to reduce carbon footprints. She said: “The construction industry has faced a challenging 2025 but it’s pleasing to see that the BEMS sector is remaining resilient and showing promising signs for the future.

“As more building owners strive to decarbonise their buildings and meet their sustainability targets, we remain confident that the BEMS sector will increasingly gain prominence.�

Analysing the data in great detail, the MINI´«Ã½â€™s Market Intelligence Report – released every quarter– breaks down the BEMS market into three key areas; product, installation value added, and service and maintenance.

Product revenue held relatively firm in Q3, sitting at £38.8 million, with most routes to market recording growth during the three-month period. In fact, manufacturer’s own systems saw a substantial uplift of 8.3%, while distributor and other channels rose by 7.4% and sales to system installers also saw an increase of 2.1%.

OEM activity did see a drop in the third quarter of 2025. However, this remains one of the smaller routes within the Product category. The overall rolling-year total for product stood at £162.1 million – a marginal decrease of 0.6% compared to the previous 12 months.

Installation Value Added delivered a stronger quarter compared to the previous period. Manufacturers and Systems Installers contributed most to the 2.2% rise to £112.9 million, with value added up 3.4% and 2% respectively. While the rolling-year position revealed a 4.1% decline to £455.8 million, the performance in Q3 suggests activity in this area is beginning to stabilise and improve. In fact, the proportion of value-added work within total installed systems remains high at 76.9%.

Service and maintenance followed the strong performances of the other two categories, remaining one of the most resilient parts of the BEMS market. Revenues rose by an encouraging 6.2% to £58.2 million, while Manufacturers had an uplift of 0.6% and System Installers jumped up 7.2% in the quarter. The rolling-year total saw a very slight drop of 0.1% to £215.8 million.

Installed Systems revenue also grew to £146.9 million, seeing an increase of 2.5% compared to the previous quarter. Manufacturer-delivered installations and System Installers also rose by 4% and 1.1% respectively, along with an uplift in distributor-sourced activity. Market share movements also remained modest, with manufacturers increasing to 14.5%, System Installers at 65% and Unspecified at 20.4%. Showing improved quarterly momentum, the rolling-year total for Installed Systems stood at £591.6 million.

Stacey continued: “The BEMS market is showing encouraging signs of growth – despite the ongoing challenges the construction industry is facing. With the UK’s net zero target of 2050 ever-approaching, the MINI´«Ã½ will continue to work with industry leaders and policy makers to not only support its members but also increase awareness both inside and outside the built environment of the important role building controls and automation can play.â€�

As the MINI´«Ã½â€™s latest report indicates, demand for building controls and automation has been heightened by the need for building owners and facility managers to reduce their carbon footprints while creating smarter buildings.

Produced and provided exclusively to MINI´«Ã½ members every quarter, the MIR offers comprehensive insights into market trends and growth across the BEMS sector and a detailed understanding of the market. As a result, it is a hugely useful and informative resource with members able to recognise potential growth opportunities, navigate challenges with more confidence and knowledge and track developments.   

Celebrating the innovators, individuals and teams shaping the future of the industry, this year’s awards will feature 11 different categories; Building Controls and BEMS Company of the Year, Engineer of the Year, Young Engineer of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Energy Innovation and Impact Award, Best Service and Maintenance Provider, Technical Innovation of the Year – Products, Technical Innovation of the Year – Projects, Contribution to Training, Outstanding Contribution of the Year and Sustainability Strategy Champion.

Entries for all categories are free to enter and can be completed and submitted using the , which allows candidates to start, edit, view and download entries before submitting them. There will be no extension, so nominations must be completed by the 22nd January deadline.

Giving industry professionals the opportunity to acknowledge the incredible breadth of talent throughout the sector, the MINI´«Ã½ Awards 2026 will take place on Thursday 7th May 2026 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.

In addition to shining a spotlight on the organisations and individuals driving the building energy management systems (BEMS) industry forward, the keenly-anticipated evening will enable all attendees to learn about the exciting developments and innovations across the sector and network with like-minded decision-makers and industry leaders.

MINI´«Ã½ President Stacey Lucas said: “The MINI´«Ã½ Awards are an incredible opportunity to shine a spotlight on the superb innovations, businesses and individuals across the building controls and automation sector.

“This year’s event is shaping up to be an incredible evening and one that mustn’t be missed! We have tables and tickets on sale, along with some sponsorship opportunities, so don’t hesitate to get in touch!

“If you’re looking for some inspiration for your 2026 entry, a series of case studies featuring 2025’s winners can also be found on the MINI´«Ã½ website. With less than a month until the award entries close, now is the time to place your nominations!â€�

With the MINI´«Ã½ celebrating it’s 35th anniversary, the MINI´«Ã½ Awards 2026 looks set to be the biggest and best awards evening yet. To book your place, fill out the MINI´«Ã½â€™s To discuss sponsorship opportunities, call Tracey Rushton-Thorpe on 01733 308992 or email tracey@keystonecomms.co.uk.

In a strong year for Management Committee nominations,  Andy Thorn, Managing Director at Synapsys Solutions and Oli Barker, Engineering Director at Lloret, join the committee, while Graeme Rees, Global EcoXpert Leader - Building Automation & Security at Schneider Electric, has been re-elected for a further three-year term.

Andy Thorn joins the committee with more than 30 years in the BEMS industry, having held roles at Trend, Honeywell, and now Synapsys, where he became Managing Director in 2023. A long-time MINI´«Ã½ member, Andy values the association’s role in bringing competitors together to share knowledge and best practice.

Andy said, “This collaborative environment is vital to our industry’s continued growth, by joining the committee I want to help the MINI´«Ã½ keep training young people, lobbying for better legislation, and raising awareness of the important work our sector does. To help close the skills gap in our sector, I want to raise the profile of what the industry does and get both parents and young people engaged and interested early.â€�

The second new committee member, Oli Barker, brings 18 years of experience in the controls industry. At Lloret, he leads the engineering department and has expanded BMS delivery with new MSI and ICT divisions to offer fully integrated solutions. He is dedicated to improving building performance through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable outcomes.

Oli said, “I am thrilled to be joining the committee. I want to strengthen the MINI´«Ã½â€™s position as the leading voice in system integration and digital practice while helping to develop skills pathways for new engineers. I really can’t wait to get going!â€�

Graeme Rees commented, “I’m deeply grateful to the membership for trusting me with their vote to serve another term. It’s been an honour to contribute to the MINI´«Ã½ leadership team and help strengthen its foundation and professionalism. Looking ahead, I’m committed to driving greater recognition for our industry, showcasing its vital role in energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and smarter buildings.â€�

Committee Members take up their roles from 1st January 2026 for a term of three years.

2026 will also see changes to the Presidential leadership team with Jen Vickers of Crown House Technologies succeeding as President and Ron Purcell of Siemens appointed as Vice President.  Stacey Lucas completes her term as President and will move to Immediate Past President.  All of the Presidential leadership terms commence on 1st March.

All appointments will take effect in March 2026, when Jen Vickers becomes President and Stacey Lucas assumes the role of Immediate Past President.

The MINI´«Ã½ extends its sincere thanks to outgoing committee members Clare Grams of Westminster Controls and Jason Harper of Integrated BMS for their years of dedication, expertise, and outstanding contributions to the association.

Find out more about the Management Committee

For the MINI´«Ã½, 2025 has been a thoroughly successful and positive year. With more than 270 apprentices on its Level 4 Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) Controls Engineer Apprenticeship Programme, it marked a significant milestone as the first cohorts successfully completed End Point Assessments and qualified as BEMS Controls Engineers.

The MINI´«Ã½â€™s committee also made a strategic decision to strengthen its core capabilities in 2025. In addition to welcoming new team members, the association brought training company management in-house, enabling it to operate as a fully integrated department within the association.

Amid increasing regulatory scrutiny on skills and qualification verification, the MINI´«Ã½ was tasked with consulting the industry on a new competence revalidation system that benefits the individuals, employers and the industry as a whole. The framework is being developed to create a full career competency pathway that enables individuals to provide evidence of their experience, qualifications and skills in order to achieve the relevant card through the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS).

The consultation received strong engagement from across the BEMS sector, offering valuable insight into both the challenges and opportunities surrounding competence revalidation. In 2026, these findings will inform the next stage of developing the full career pathway.

As the BEMS sector’s leading body, the MINI´«Ã½ launched its first technical white paper, entitled ‘Comfort, Efficiency and Health: The Untapped Potential of Building Energy Management Systems’ at a recent House of Lords event.

With there currently being a lack of awareness and understanding of the need for building controls and automation to help drive the UK’s journey towards decarbonisation, this hugely important white paper illustrates – using real-life data – how BEMS are crucial to achieving carbon reduction, economic resilience and energy efficiency. The findings of this paper will continue to be utilised, to demonstrate the positive and wide-ranging impacts BEMS can have.

Determined to increase awareness and encourage more professionals across the built environment to specify and implement smart building technology, the MINI´«Ã½ also hosted a panel discussion at this year’s Smart Buildings Show at Excel London in October. Focusing on ‘Unlocking the Benefits of High-Performing Buildings’, the debate saw directors from some of the industry’s biggest names come together, revealing the possibilities that await facilities managers and occupiers keen to harness the full potential of their buildings.

The MINI´«Ã½ has worked closely with government departments, MPs, ministers and other influential stakeholders, building strong relationships and helping to drive policy and standards. Pleasingly, these efforts are already paying off – most notably when building controls were highlighted by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) as a key technology in the Seventh Carbon Budget. Indeed, it suggests advanced building controls and automation systems are able to achieve up to a 30% reduction in energy consumption.

The MINI´«Ã½â€™s Young Engineers Network (YEN) also enjoyed a standout year. Membership grew significantly, and the group hosted its largest-ever event, welcoming 30 young engineers to 150 Holborn – one of London’s smartest buildings – for an inspiring day of networking, discussion and demonstrations. A further visit to Distech Controls’ new Birmingham training facility offered valuable hands-on experience with cutting-edge BMS hardware, strengthening both technical understanding and industry connections.

Of course, it would be remiss of me not to mention this year’s MINI´«Ã½ Awards. With ten hotly contested award categories and some incredibly difficult decisions for me and the rest of the judging panel, the awards ceremony was a superb example of how the building controls and automation sector is leading the way in innovative technological solutions.

It was a wonderful evening and it was great to see so many of the industry’s key decision makers shining a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible innovation and expertise across the BEMS sector.

The accompanying Members’ Conference was also a huge success; its biggest and best-attended to date. In fact, 75 of the industry’s leading professionals were in attendance and fully took advantage of the excellent networking opportunities and wide range of thought-provoking and engaging talks and debates.

Our community has grown again this year, with 27 new members joining the association and bringing their ideas, insights and connections to the MINI´«Ã½ community. I would also like to offer my personal thanks, as well as that of the association, to all our members who make the association what it is. In particular, I’d like to recognise those who give their time and input, helping us to further the sector through the working groups, supporting projects and events and through the Management Committee.

Overall, 2025 has been a year of progress, innovation, and collaboration for the MINI´«Ã½ and the wider building controls community. With the foundations now set, 2026 promises to be another year of exciting development and achievement.

With apprentices the lifeblood of the building controls and automation sector, this category is always keenly contested and this year was no different. Ricardo’s passion for the industry and drive to innovate saw him fight off incredibly fierce competition to scoop the award at the 2025 MINI´«Ã½ Awards ceremony held at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham this May.  

Open to any individuals that have participated in an approved Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) or building controls apprenticeship scheme, the Apprentice of the Year award recognises those who have best demonstrated the achievements gained and their commitment to advancements in their career.  

It also recognises the value of training to the whole sector, along with the importance of continuous professional development. The judging panel not only assessed the achievements to date and the application of knowledge but also the evidence of commitment to the course and the industry in general, in addition to a supporting testimonial from a tutor or employer.  

While there were many incredible nominations and submissions, Ricardo was a very deserving winner.    

The entry 

Ricardo came into the industry with no experience within BEMS, but had a real desire to learn, and to learn quickly. Within just three years, he has progressed substantially and is now considered one of E.ON Controls Solutions’ top Schneider engineers.  

In fact, he now runs his own site, continually coming up with new ideas to improve the way the BEMS operates to improve the customers’ experience. He also works with E.ON Controls Solutions’ sales team to help them quote for all new works, such as Newark Hospital’s lifecycle upgrade, and numerous other quotes.  

With a real passion for the industry and a drive to identify innovative ways of improving all aspects of his BEMS software writing, Ricardo has rapidly become a multi-system expert within the industry.  

Testimony to this is the fact Ricardo has passed the Tridium course with a very high percentage mark.   

Darren Washington, E.ON Controls Solutions Leeds Technical Manager, highlighted Ricardo’s incredible determination and ability to quickly expand his skillset. He said: “Ricardo’s drive and desire will no doubt take him to an extremely high-level engineer in the future and we honestly believe he could achieve great things. Ricardo has a real gift of absorbing knowledge and he’s never been content with learning new skills until he has mastered them. 

“The way Ricardo has developed since his arrival has been truly astonishing and is a great asset to this company. His dedication and hard work are evident in all aspects of his work.â€� 

Why they won 

As one of E.ON Controls Solutions’ BMS Service Commissioning Engineers, Ricardo has a prominent role in the implementation of software and commissions at important sites across the UK. In addition to helping the sales team, he runs various quotes works, such as Newark Hospital’s lifecycle upgrade, and has even converted Mansfield Hospital with new hardware, software and graphics. 

While working on the Mansfield Hospital project, he also completed full boiler upgrade works to ensure their heating and cooling systems were working in the most energy efficient way possible.  

Highlighting his desire to reach his goals as quickly as possible and become a multi-system expert within the BEMS industry, Ricardo completed and built his own BMS panel and software during his spare time. This innovative piece of technology was actually taken into a MINI´«Ã½ course and meeting for the rest of the apprentices to learn from as part of a demonstration exercise.  

Despite having come into the industry with no previous BMS expertise or experience, Ricardo has very quickly amassed the skills and expertise needed to become one of E.ON Controls Solutions’ top engineers. As someone constantly coming up with ideas to improve the ways in which the BEMS operates to improve the customers’ building management experience and, in fact, built his own BMS panel and software, Ricardo has applied the knowledge gained during his apprenticeship to great success.  

This was evidenced by the recent comments of a customer, who said: “Ricardo consistently goes above and beyond to complete tasks on a demanding and busy site. He carries out his duties diligently and works on unexpected requests to meet short timescales. 

“He has settled in on-site brilliantly since E.ON commenced the BEMS contract and while a ‘subcontractor’, he is now fully integrated and seen as a member of the Skanska site team. He meets each challenge with good humour and is focused on client satisfaction.â€� 

Find out more about the 2026 awards

Kim joined many other industry professionals in what was a hotly contested category but saw his dedication to the industry over his 46-year career and commitment to empowering others further rewarded with award success at the 2025 MINI´«Ã½ Awards ceremony held in May.

Open to individuals working for controls installers, manufacturers, facilities management companies or consulting engineers, the Engineer of the Year award recognises those who demonstrate engineering excellence in controls and building energy management systems (BEMS).

It also acknowledges individuals that have applied technical knowledge and project management skills to meet and resolve engineering challenges, in addition to showing commitment to their duties and responsibilities in the wider building controls and automation sector.

So, it was with great pleasure that the MINI´«Ã½ bestowed Kim with the 2025 Engineer of the Year award.  

The entry

During his 46-year career to date, Johnson Controls, Andover Controls and CHt have all recognised Kim as a key building control commissioning expert.

Having initially been employed by Birmingham University as an apprentice electrician, it wasn’t long before Kim’s talents saw him working as Lead Commissioning Engineer at Johnson Controls. His role saw him working around the world, including three years in Brazil overseeing the commissioning management of two airports’ mechanical control schemes, such as the chilled water and ventilation systems.

He was chosen for this role because of his pneumatic control experience and ability to connect with new people. In fact, during his time abroad, he learned Portuguese to better communicate with the local team and develop their pneumatic controls competence.

His unrivalled expertise also saw him employed as the Commissioning Manager for a Ministry of Defence (MoD) bunker, completing his certification for Andover Infinity products and commissioning the complex ventilation system.

A previous manager of Kim’s, Tom Breckney highlighted his incredible breadth of knowledge and expertise. He said: “Kim and I have worked together for around 15 years. In my first project management role, I wanted the best team and so battled for the right people. That included Kim, who I was aware of from our time at Johnson Controls.

“He immediately fulfilled what I had heard about him and continued to do so until our last joint project in 2023. Kim is very humble, but no matter what he’s asked to do, no matter how complex or in what location, he always gets it done.

“His wealth of knowledge is vast and he has shared it with junior team members. Kim is a great engineer, a great man and a dear friend. He will be missed when he calls it a day later this year.�

Why they won

The aforementioned MoD bunker features a complex ventilation system that had 13 separate modes and had to be installed with relay logic to control fully redundant standby fans and dampers. Upon initial commissioning activities, Kim discovered the existing control scheme did not function and had significant design issues.

Consequently, Kim’s role changed from commissioning management to specifically resolving the large complex’s ventilation system issues. In addition to reviewing the specification requirements, Kim sought clarification from the design engineers, investigated the installation and redesigned the ventilation building control scheme based on his findings.

With the building control panel manufacturer unable to support the project, Kim proactively produced updated panel drawings that highlighted all the required changes. Furthermore, Kim created a resource programme requirement based on the contract programme and trained the graduate apprentices on relay logic and the requirements for modifications on a 15m building control panel. Through Kim’s technical leadership, the ventilation works were completed within the project programme.

While Kim’s technical knowledge and project management skills were undoubtedly deciding factors in his award win, his development of young engineers and apprentices was equally vital. Keen to share his expertise and experience with newly employed engineers, Kim offered his support to all newly employed engineers from around the world while working at a data centre in London.

Working closely with them, he regularly undertook one-to-ones where he explained subjects, such as electrical safety, breaker types and operations, generators and transfer switches, modes of operation and building controls connections.

Consequently, Kim and the young engineers finished the complete electrical power monitoring systems (EPMS) ahead of programme and below budget.

Testimony to Kim’s drive to further knowledge and skills of others is his work with Dean Murray. The two met in 2015 when Dean, then a newly qualified electrician, was working at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. They have continued working together over the past 10 years, in which time Kim has shared lessons from his four decades of experience. Consequently, Dean has progressed into a leadership role as a Senior BMS Engineer. Kim is a vital member of the team, as Dean reveals: “I’ve had the privilege of working with Kim for 10 years and his influence on my professional growth has been profound. His expertise and dedication have both shaped my career and set a benchmark for excellence.

“His problem-solving, mentorship and unwavering commitment to quality are traits I strive to emulate. I am grateful for his insights and hope to be half the engineer he is.�

Find out more about the 2026 awards

Shining a spotlight on talented professionals and organisations and the incredible innovations on display across the building energy management systems (BEMS) sector, the MINI´«Ã½ awards evening is one of the industry’s hottest yearly events.

With a myriad of strong categories and so many deserving winners competing for each of the 11 awards, the event can often be a thoroughly challenging yet hugely rewarding evening for the judges.

Selected based on their in-depth BEMS industry knowledge as some of the leading names in the sector, the judges are the most qualified to identify the right winners. To ensure the right balance, each judging panel will feature a mixture of MINI´«Ã½ and industry representation.

The judges for the MINI´«Ã½ Awards 2026 are as follows:

Stacey Lucas – President, MINI´«Ã½ and  Commercial and Marketing Director, Sontay

Jen Vickers – Vice President, MINI´«Ã½ and Regional Information Manager, Crown House Technologies

Jon Belfield – Managing Director, InTandem Systems

Jo Harris – UK&I Head of Technical Services, Sodexo

Andy Camsell – Technical Director, Novus Controls

Josh Steel – Chair, MINI´«Ã½ Young Engineers Network and Sales Manager, Electracom

Ron Purcell – Product Portfolio Manager, Siemens

Caroline Fright – Managing Director, Carbon Numbers

Stephen Wreford – Head of Digital AI, HBT Digital Advisory

Daniel Hartley – Lead Engineer for Building Systems, Manchester Airports Group (MAG)

Steve Loughney – Director, Forfend

Andy Reakes – Chief Operating Officer, Joint Industry Board

Lee Benford – Head of BMS Projects, Mitie

Michael Burgess – Senior Digital Building Consultant, FPC Global

With 11 highly competitive award categories, the newly announced judges are expected to have a difficult task in deciding the deserving winners. Stacey Lucas, MINI´«Ã½ President and Chair of Judges, underlined the monumental task ahead of the judges. She said: “The building controls and automation sector has become increasingly significant in recent years, especially with the government’s net zero target of 2050 getting ever-closer. As you would expect, it features some wonderfully gifted and skilled people and organisations that are driving the industry forward.

“The judging panel therefore has a vital role in acknowledging and recognising these individuals and businesses. While there are inevitably going to be some tough decisions, it is an honour to shine a spotlight on the very best the industry has to offer and the evening will be a true celebration of the sector. The night is expected to be the biggest and best yet, with the MINI´«Ã½ celebrating its 35th anniversary.â€�

Fellow judge, Ron Purcell - Product Portfolio Manager, Siemens – highlighted the importance of the judging process. He said: “You get a timeframe with which to adjudicate and score those and it is a very clear criteria that you have to go through. But it is a professional duty and a privilege to be on the panel.�

The judging process is entirely transparent and robust and the clear policy is outlined in the MINI´«Ã½â€™s published Rules, Policies and Procedures. Copies can be provided by emailing catherinew@bcia.co.uk. Furthermore, all judges will be expected to comply with the T&C’s.

All judges will be welcomed as guests to the MINI´«Ã½ Awards 2026, taking place on Thursday 7th May 2026 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.

There are 11 award categories and entries are open until Thursday 22nd January 2026, so if you haven’t already, place your nominations today!

You can find out more about each award category and submit entries here.

Find out more about the judges here.