Miss Tess Butler

DSET CEO

Tess has worked in Military Simulation, Training, and Education for 20 years. A graduate of Russian & Soviet Studies, she first worked with the Royal Navy before becoming a fixture at a tank-park for a year trying to work out which media would enhance the training of arc-welding the bits of FV432s and her beloved motorbike. After a decade of trying to crack the code of MoD Requirements Documents as a Bid Manager and Business Development experiment, she became head of Joint Capability Business Development at CAE UK and worked on the central strategy board. 5 more years of working with more than 25 different militaries set her up nicely for a sojourn to the deserts of the Middle East where she worked independently as a Military Consultant to industry. Tess headed back to the UK with 15 years of Military Training and Simulation (MS&T) experience to make posh jam… A year later she was hired as PR Director of Bohemia Interactive Simulations. 2015 led to expansion of the Ruddy Nice client base and the setting up of DSET. Running awesome and relevant events for the military, industry and academia in MS&T are her ongoing passions. Tess’ hobbies include extreme basket weaving, running after an ever-active child and reading the small print on websites.

Marryam Chaudhry

CEO & Founder, XR 2 LEAD

A technology visionary and people-oriented leader with 20+ years of international experience. She is the CEO & Founder of “XR2LEAD”, a global defense & aerospace company that provides cutting edge training & mission critical technology solutions. XR 2 LEAD’s expertise is designing AI based (Intelligent) Simulated Solutions for adaptive training, digital twins, and rapid decision-making tools. Its mission is to provide cutting edge immersive solutions to the military, to maximize the readiness of “The Warfighter of the Future”. Under her leadership, within 2 years of inception, XR 2 LEAD began to rapidly gain traction with successful contracts like winning a challenge for an AI adaptive training solution in VR and change management solutions for logistics command.

Colonel Colin Thomas VR

Assistant Head: Transition, Land Warfare Centre

Colonel Thomas joined the then Territorial Army (TA) in 1995 and successfully completed his commissioning course in 1997. His first appointments included 168 Pioneer Regiment RLC and Officer Commanding a specialist training team for all RLC Reserve potential Officers. In 2005 he promoted to Major and became Officer Commanding 270 Transport Squadron, followed by a posting to the Land Warfare Centre, Warminster, Reserve Directing Staff in the Junior Officers Tactics Division. As the senior Reserve Officer, it was his role to coordinate all Reserve aspects including policy direction and course rewrites. In 2009 he deployed on Operation HERRICK in Afghanistan, serving at both Formation and Unit levels. Initially working across the staff branches of Regional Command (South) on the integration of Information Operations in a multi-national force, then working at Unit level on the planning and execution of UK Combat Logistic Patrols in the Helmand Province. Promoting to Lieutenant Colonel in 2011 he took command of 165 Port Regiment RLC. Under Command the Regiment merged with two other major units to create 165 Port & Maritime Regiment – the largest RLC Reserve Unit. Following Command Lt Col Thomas joined the Army Reserve Development Programme, the organisation tasked to deliver the Reserve component of Army 2020. Promoted to Colonel in 2019, he currently serves as the Assistant Head (Transition) for the Land Warfare Centre. Here he oversees the delivery of new training capabilities and services that ensure the Army’s Collective Training Estate is both dynamic and representative of a complex operating environment. Originally from Llanelli, South Wales, Colonel Thomas now lives in the small village of Galhampton, Somerset along with his wife Sandy and daughter Holly. He was a secondary school teacher and Head of Design Technology at a large Academy prior to undertaking Full Time Reserve Service (FTRS). His interests include cycling, both on and off road, fly fishing and game shooting.

Miss George Gilbert

Fire Fighter and Polar Expeditioner, Antarctic Fire Angels and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service

A fire fighter for nearly 26 years and now also a polar expeditioner having recently, in 2023 - 24' skied 1230km to the South Pole unguided and unsupported. George is a true believer in its never too late to explore and challenge not only our own boundaries but also gender norms and stereotypes that todays social norms impose upon us.

Lieutenant Colonel Max Garrety MBE

SO1 Joint Aviation Command J7 Simulation, HQ Joint Aviation Command

Lt Col Max Garrety MBE has led a varied military-career to date: he originally joined the Queen’s Own Highlanders TA, in Oct 85 in his final year at school, as an officer cadet before passing selection for RAF Pilot and joining the RAF in 1987. Post commissioning, he undertook RAF pilot training and was subsequently re-roled to the navigator stream; this led to a posting to the Air Defence environment with a few hours on the F4 and then onto the Tornado F3. Unfortunately, a loss of medical category led to grounding and leaving the RAF in 1993. During a degree in Agriculture and Rural Estate Management, he was commissioned into the Yeomanry (Reserve Cavalry) serving as a troop leader and squadron 2IC; this led to an opportunity for service with the Queen’s Royal Lancers in Germany and the UK until 2004. Sub-unit command followed back in the Yeomanry up to 2006, whilst holding down a demanding civilian role with Knight Frank as a professional-valuation chartered-surveyor. Garrety undertook FTRS in 2009 with the Army Recruiting and Training Division (ARTD) as SO2 Trg Ops in which he undertook a full review of the Reserve officer and soldier phase 1 and 2 training pipelines leading to ARTD taking ownership through RMAS and ITG respectively. Throughout this time, he undertook an MSc in International Security through Cranfield University, in which the thesis developed a model of anti-piracy measures in the world of maritime security. Promotion to SO1 in 2012, kept Garrety in ARTD whereupon he undertook requirement-setting, test and acceptance, COS and DCOS of Recruiting Group and the Recruit Partnering Project; a role which endured for 4½ years, before boarding for a role in commercial oversight of Marchwood Sea Mounting Centre in Dec 16. This heavily utilised the commercial, estate management and project management skills acquired in previous roles. As a result, he was awarded an MBE in the final Queen’s Birthday Honours List. The need for a new challenge in an interesting field has led him to Joint Helicopter Command, back in aviation and looking after all aspects of simulation. Lt Col Garrety is married with two teenage boys, neither of whom has any desire to replicate their father’s most unorthodox career. Hobbies include cycling, sailing, oil painting and military history.

Major General Chris Barry CBE

Director Land Warfare, British Army

Major General Chris Barry grew up in Cambridge and was commissioned into the Royal Anglian Regiment, later transferring to The Royal Welsh on command. He completed 15 years at Regimental duty as well as time on the staff of a Bde and a Corps, serving in the United Kingdom, Cyprus, Germany, and the Falkland Islands and on repeated operations in Northern Ireland and Afghanistan as well as Iraq and the Yemen. On the General Staff, he has served as Assistant Head of the Army 2020 Programme, Chief of Staff of the Army Recruiting and Training Division, Chief of Staff of the Land Warfare Centre and Commander of the Collective Training Group. Major General Barry is a graduate of both the Joint Advanced Command and Staff Course (Australia) and the Royal College of Defence Studies and was appointed OBE in 2014 and CBE in 2021. Married to Gael they have two children. His interests include European literature and history. He is the Vice President of Army Boxing and the Colonel of the Regiment, The Royal Welsh. Major General Barry was appointed Director Land Warfare in December 2021.

Ms Elçin Ada Sayin

Fight Club Türkiye Chapter Co-Lead

Ada is a Strasbourg University law graduate with deep roots in defense and wargaming. She led the Women in Command Project, designing the Hybrid Threat Rising game, a pioneering effort in addressing hybrid threats and promoting women's leadership in defense, earning the International Serious Play Awards’ Golden Medal and the 2022 MS&T Awards. Ada has significantly contributed to the defense sector, including leading the design of the Humanity in Crisis Module, winning the Women in STEM award by Women in Defence UK in 2022, and guiding global tech firms in counter-terrorism efforts through the Global Internet Forum. Currently, she heads the Leader Women Community, fostering young women's careers in defense, co-leads Fight Club Türkiye, and contributes as a researcher to NATO STO’s SAS-172 on Multi-Domain Operations Wargame, soon chairing the task group on integrating Generation Z+ into Defense Organizations within NATO STO SAS Panel.

Mr Mark Lillelund Joergensen

Wargamer, Royal Danish Defence College

Graduated with a Master's Degree in History and Social Studies from the University of Copenhagen in April 2020. Started an internship at the Center for Maritime Operations - Royal Danish Defence College, in Feb. 2021. Followed up the internship with a 1-year contract in Aug. 21, and then onto a permanent position in Aug. 22.

MSc. Ornella Schavemaker-Piva

Assistant Professor, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences

Ornella Schavemaker-Piva is an assistant professor at the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences who teaches a.o. programming, modelling & simulation, and robotics to Computer Engineering students. After her master's study in Electronic Engineering at Universitá di Ferrara (Italy) and TU Delft (The Netherlands) she worked as a software engineer and system architect in many fields of operations such as defence, traffic and embedded, specializing in simulation software and training at TNO Defence, Safety and Security. Working on different projects for the Dutch Army and Dutch Airforce, and for the Italian Armed Forces. In the last years of her career, she decided to transfer her knowledge to young people and help them become young professionals in the field of Computer Engineering. Within the faculty, she develops new courses in the fields of programming and Modelling & Simulation, is a member of the curriculum committee, and coordinates students’ internships. She is also active as a researcher in the field of simulation and immersive technologies. Ornella’s hobbies include gemstone cutting, jewellery making, wood turning, and practicing martial arts, she has a black belt in Tang Soo Do.

Gp Capt Ruari Henderson-Begg

Chief Modelling and Simulation Officer, HQ Air Command

Gp Capt Ruari Henderson-Begg is the RAF’s Chief Modelling and Simulation Officer, responsible for developing a strategy for the use of Modelling and Simulation across the Air environment and developing a coherent Modelling and Simulation Ecosystem to deliver this strategy. Ruari takes on this role after 5 years as the Programme Manager for Gladiator – the RAF’s Distributed Synthetic Training system, which entered Service in Jan 23 – and aims to use his experience to enhance interoperability and effective use of data across the RAF’s suite of Modelling and Simulation capabilities, as well as working with Service and industry colleagues to support the development of Defence’s Modelling and Simulation enterprise.

Lt Col James de StJohn-Pryce

Commanding Officer, Armoured Trials and Development Unit

With a passion for the role and challenges of reconnaissance, Lieutenant Colonel James de St John-Pryce commissioned into the Household Cavalry. He completed tours of Bosnia and two of Iraq as a junior officer. At PJHQ, he was the J3 Joint Effects desk officer and MA to the Assistant Chief of Staff J3 (Operations). He commanded C Squadron HCR in preparation for a tour of Afghanistan on Scimitar 2. He has been the Syria desk officer in Military Strategic Effects, Plans Officer for the European Training Mission in Mogadishu and Requirements Manager on the AJAX programme. Most recently he has been the Household Cavalry Second in Command and the J3/Operations and Africa Team Leader for the Joint Force Headquarters on global crisis response. Foremost are his passion for flying (fixed winged aircraft), speed riding (skiing with a very small parachute) and reforming the Army's least useful anachronisms. He assumed command of the Armoured Trials and Development Unit in August 2021.

Senior Executive Service Member Lea Kirkwood

Program Executive Officer and Director, Agile Combat Support Directorate, USA

Ms. Lea T. Kirkwood, a member of the Senior Executive Service, is the Program Executive Officer and Director for the Agile Combat Support Directorate at the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. She leads more than 1,600 military and civilian personnel responsible for executing $8.2 billion annually in Air Force Funds. The directorate’s six divisions, located primarily at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Robins Air Force Base, and Heath OH, provide materiel solutions and acquisition life cycle management for simulators, support equipment and vehicles, electronic warfare and avionics, human systems, automatic test systems, and metrology and calibration to meet Air Force operational needs. Ms. Kirkwood served 29 years as an active duty Air Force officer. As an acquisition program manager, she managed space, command and control, mission planning, automatic test systems, and early warning and control programs for United States and NATO operations, as well as foreign military sales. She led international relations at the Pentagon, in Hungary, and in the United Kingdom. She commanded the 422d Air Base Squadron, Royal Air Force Croughton, United Kingdom, and served as Deputy Commander, 78th Mission Support Group, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia; Deputy Commander, 451st Expeditionary Mission Support Group, Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan; and Vice Commander, 72d Air Base Wing, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. She deployed in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and FREEDOM’S SENTINEL, and for the NATO-led RESOLUTE SUPPORT Mission. Ms. Kirkwood entered federal civil service in January 2022 as the Program Executive Officer and Director for the Agile Combat Support Directorate of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.

Col Charles M. Seaberry

Director, AFC International –Atlantic

COL Seaberry serves as the Director of Army Futures Command International-Atlantic overseeing a globally-reaching organization spanning Europe, Africa, and the Middle East committed to advancing military capabilities and collaborative efforts in research and development. AFC International-Atlantic identifies foreign technology for seamless integration into Army Research and Development centers, ensuring the Army maintains its innovation edge. By aligning Army initiatives with key agencies such as OSD, USAF, and USN, COL Seaberry maximizes investments to enhance future combat capabilities. AFC International-Atlantic actively supports EUCOM, AFRICOM, and USAREUR-AF in shaping strategic S&T engagement plans to fortify the Army's global presence. Serving as the Army's S&T lead to NATO, COL Seaberry champions interoperability and modernization priorities and fostering collaborative R&D partnerships with foreign stakeholders. AFC International-Atlantic remains at the forefront of innovation and international collaboration, contributing significantly to national security.

Lt Charlie Bradbury

Deloitte / Army Reserve

Charlie is a Venture Strategist at Monitor Deloitte working in the Defence and Security sectors. He is also an Army Reserve infantry officer and guest lecturer at Lancaster University Security Institute.

Lt Col Ant Sharman

Director, Evocatus Consulting Ltd

Having spent formative years in the army running the very biggest exercises, Ant left to set up Evocatus in 2016, running wargames and exercises for both defence and private sector customers. In his "spare" time, he commands the Royal Wessex Yeomanry, the UK's only reserve Armoured Regiment.

Professor Peter Roberts

Researcher, Author and Occasional Podcaster

Peter Roberts is a researcher, author and occasional podcaster. Often described as a technology-heretic, he has seen the majority of wargames, M+S played and used to prove points rather than for genuine learning and growth. A self-acknowledged cynic when it comes to technological determinism, Peter is not popular for his evidenced-based research. Previously, he served in the military for 20+ years, earned his PhD in politics and history and then worked at RUSI for nearly a decade as Director of Military Sciences, as well as Professor of War at the Ecole de Guerre in Paris. He is currently working for a variety of organisations (NATO, Indo-PacCom, The Alphen Group, and various national governments), and with the University of Exeter. Peter’s last book Wars Changed Landscape? was published in 2023. His next one, The Western Way of War, is due for release in Summer 2024.

Sub Lt Luke Brannigan

Naval Warfare Officer - Wargaming Advisor, HMCS Venture - Royal Canadian Navy

SLt Luke Brannigan has served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 12 years, with the last 7 as a Naval Warfare Officer. He is currently an instructor at the Royal Canadian Navy’s officer school, HMCS Venture where he has helped develop and implement the use of educational wargaming in junior NWO training.

Dr John Curry

Senior Lecturer, Bath Spa University

In the hobby space, he was Donald Featherstone’s editor; in the professional space, he is the co-author/ editor for many key figures including Dr Peter Perla, Graham Longley Brown, Dr Ed McGrady, Tim Price, Dr Paddy Griffith etc. He has published 25 books on professional wargaming, including the seminal works on Matrix Gaming, Confrontation Analysis and Graham Longley Brown’s work Successful Professional Wargames. He also co-authored the first two books on cyber wargaming. He is the co-editor of the MORS Wargaming Journal. He regularly presents at MORS wargaming events in Washington, the DSET conference (Bristol UK), Connections UK conference (RMAS), and Connections Oz. He is on the DSET organising committee. He has presented at the Defence Academy of the UK and the Defence Academy of Australia. He currently supervises 4 PhDs in wargaming-related areas (including COIN, Urban and tank combat). He is an ex-infantry officer.

LTZ2 Michiel F. Bon (KMR)

Deputy Head Expertise Center Modelling & Simulation, Netherlands Army, Dutch Ministry of Defence

With extensive experience as a commercial Project manager, I transitioned to the role of Project manager for the MoD. Later, I dedicated over 8 years to Intelligence, overseeing Education & Training for a Special Organization Unit. Subsequently, I served as Deputy head of the Expertise Center Modelling & Simulation(M&S) for the Netherlands Army, specializing in strategic advice and leading impactful projects. Also actively participating as an operational expert in NATO initiatives to enhance M&S capability. Additionally, my role as Reserve Lieutenant (OF1) in the Netherlands Marine Corps, focusing on intelligence and amphibious warfare, offers valuable practical insights gained from deployments and participation in significant NATO exercises.

Mr Kevin Williamson

Executive Director, Near Peer Simulations

Served in the US Army and US Naval Reserves, background in Logistics and weapons maintenance. Currently employed by Matrix Pro Sims as a contractor to support Marine Corps University's wargaming department as a Wargame Subject Matter Expert. Apart from my day job, I am a current Board Member of USA Fight Club, Executive Director of a Non-Profit Wargaming Organization Near Peer Simulations, and currently serves on ITSEC's NTSA Next Big Thing Committee where I provide contributions geared towards Generative AI and Large Language Models.

Miss Hannah Smith

Deputy Head of Technical Authority and Joint SCTA, DMSO UK

Hannah joined the civil service in 2017. Recently, she worked for the Collective Training Transformation Programme where she was involved with projects including Roundless TES, ICAVS(D) and DVS2. Hannah also led on technical demonstrators, proving concepts for future approaches to training. Hannah is a member of several standards groups including Urban Combat Advanced Training Technology Standards, SISO and NMSG. At the beginning of 2023, Hannah joined the newly formed DMSO team as part of its technical team and has since become the TA Deputy Head. Hannah leads the DMSO technical support team who aim to provide impartial advice and modelling and simulation support across defence, promoting interoperability, reuse, and value for money. She is responsible for assessing and assuring both Joint and Defence-wide M&S programmes for compliance with policy. Hannah is also studying for her MSc in Defence Modelling and Simulation.

Mr Louis Jeffries

Junior Analyst, Wargaming and OA Team, QinetiQ Training and Simulation Ltd

Louis Jeffries is a Junior Analyst within the Wargaming and OA team at QinetiQ Training and Simulation Limited. A keen and analytical thinker, with a passion for problem-solving and making sense of complexity, Louis has considerable experience in designing, facilitating and analysing both analytical and training-focussed wargames. Louis has assisted the development of wargaming and analytical training to promote best practise in the industry, and is passionate about supporting others to engage with the sector, sitting on the Connections: Next Generation and DSET Defence Futures panels. He also provides board-level assistance to Imaginetic, a Canadian-based wargames consultancy.

Dr Steven Wagner

Senior Lecturer in International Security, Brunel University London

I am an historian of intelligence, security, empire and the modern Middle East. Before coming to Brunel, I was a SSHRC postdoctoral fellow in the Department of History and Classical Studies at McGill University, Montreal. I received my DPhil from the University of Oxford, and my BA and MA from the University of Calgary. Since 2007, I have been looking at records declassified records in the UK, USA, and Israel which shed new light on the story of the Palestine Mandate, but also on the previously unknown role of intelligence in countering terrorism & insurgency, and in shaping British policy.

Dr Iain Farquharson

Lecturer in Global Challenges – Security Pathway Lead, Brunel University London

I completed my PhD in Military History at Brunel in 2021. Prior to this I completed an MA in History at the University of Exeter in 2010 and my BA (hons.) in History at Brunel in 2009. My research examines the reform of officer education in the British Army between 1919 and 1939. I am also an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. Between 2018-2020 and 2021-22, I taught as an adjunct lecturer on Brunel's BA International History and BA Military and International History courses. From October 2021 I taught the Security Pathway on the BASc Global Challenges course, before becoming the Pathway Lead from September 2022.

Capt Eugene Morgan RN

Assistant Head Defence Wargaming, UK Strategic Command

Captain Eugene Morgan RN – UK Strategic Command Assistant Head Wargaming – A reservist serving full time within UK Strategic Command Joint Warfare and leading on the task of developing defence wargaming capacity and capability. Eugene is a Naval Reserve Warfare Officer with wide operational experience from tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and the Cabinet Office during COVID-19. He also has an extensive background in the defence and international development sectors mostly focusing on small to medium start-up businesses.

Professor Richard Teeuw

Professor of Geoinformatics and Disaster Risk Reduction, University of Portsmouth

Biography I am a geomorphologist and remote sensing scientist, specialising in low-cost applications for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). I developed and manage the MSc in Crisis and Disaster Management at the University of Portsmouth, working with practitioners to develop our SimEx disaster response simulation exercise, which is now one of the largest annual exercises in the world. After gaining a BSc in Geology & Geography at Nottingham University, my career started at Stirling University with PhD research examining the geomorphology of the Sierra Leone diamondfields. I have extensive experience of using geomorphology and remote sensing to map geohazards and natural resources, consulting for BP Minerals International, Rio Tinto, Pioneer Goldfields, Golden Star Resources, NorWest Resources and Adam Smith International, as well as the Environment Agency in the UK and the overseas development agencies of Britain (DfID), Canada (CIDA), Germany (GTZ) and Japan (JICA). Recently I have been working on projects involving the UK Satellite Applications Catapult: applying remote sensing to deection of illicit gold mining in Collombia and climate change adaptation applications for small island states, in conjunction with the United Nations Institute of Training and Research (UNITAR). Research interests My interests focus on low-cost uses of remote sensing for assessing hazards, vulnerability and risk, as well as geoinformatic capacity building in low-income countries and risk perception studies. My research includes industry-funded projects, from mapping of urban flood vulnerability, to satellite remote sensing of oil pollution in the Niger Delta. Recent projects funded by the ESRC and UKSA IPP use satellite remote sensing to detect and monitor illegal gold mining in the rainforests of Colombia. I led a NERC-funded team surveying impacts of Hurricane Maria in Dominica, using satellite data, drone photography and GIS for a forensic geomorphological analysis of destroyed infrastructure and fatality locations. I'm currently the Risk Science theme leader of the UK Space Agency IPP-funded CommonSensing project, using satellite imagery for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction applications in the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) of Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands.

Mr Richard Gordon MBE

Director Disaster Management Centre, Bournemouth University

Richard Gordon has been the Director of Bournemouth University's Disaster Management Centre since 2003 having previously served in the Armed Forces for sixteen years. He has worked in over 26 countries around the world focusing on the resilience and response capabilities of National Government Ministries and Agencies, Armed Forces and Emergency Services, National Public Health Agencies and International Humanitarian Organisations, as well as the Private Sector. Richard and his team provide a fused approach to crisis and disaster management which includes Professional Practice (multi-agency training and development), an MSc in Disaster Management (delivered both in the UK and overseas) and a series of cutting-edge research agendas. A key aspect of this combined approach includes the development and delivery of realistic simulation exercises that bring together multiple stakeholders to develop their shared situational awareness, joint decision-making, and strategic communication. Richard regularly works with UK and overseas military personnel to develop multi-agency training and simulation events.

Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service

Neil has worked in the British Fire and Rescue Service since 1991 and has served in three Services becoming Chief Fire Officer of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service in January 2018. Neil has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southampton and is a member of the Institute of Directors and a Graduate member of the Institution of Fire Engineers. Neil is the UK National Fire Chief’s Council lead for international development and learning from Fire Services across the world. Neil is Chairman of the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) which brings together the UK’s rescue services to develop their skills and improve rescue standards. Neil is also a Trustee of the Blue Lamp Trust which was established to promote and enhance community safety across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Most recently Neil has chaired the Strategic Coordinating Group (SCG) in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight ensuring the effective multi-agency response to COVID-19. He also chaired the UK National Fire Chief’s Council Chairman for the Prevention Committee, supporting Fire Services across the nation to prevent fires and other emergencies. Neil was awarded a Queens Fire Service Medal (QFSM) in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday honours.

Prof. David Manley, RCNC

Professor of Naval Architecture, University College London

I am the current MOD Professor of Naval Architecture at University College London, and Course Director for the naval architecture MSc and the Submarine Design And Acquisition Course. I am the MOD Deputy Technical Discipline Lead of Naval Architecture MOD, Senior Fellow for Maritime Vulnerability Reduction, and Head of Specialism for Platform Survivability. In this role I support the UK’s maritime enterprise in ship and submarine survivability, with involvement and engagement in all naval ship, submarine and weapon projects. My previous experience includes over 30 years working in UK naval safety and survivability, driving the development of the UK’s maritime survivability strategy, combat safety and naval mission modularity, as well as supporting survivability development through a wide range of international research groups and defence fora. I am a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects and a Constructor Captain in the Royal Corps of Naval Constructors.

Mr Rich Lloyd

Director, Blueflame Digital Ltd

Rich has over 25 years of experience developing games and interactive software across multiple industries. He is a Director at Blueflame Digital - a multi award winning studio which focuses on developing serious games - applying games and game technology to benefit defense and commercial industries. Rich specialises in empowering training and engagement needs. From Virtual Reality driving experiences to Augmented Reality and mobile games, he has worked with Openreach, Siemens Mobility, LEGO, The Royal Navy, The Royal Netherlands Navy, League of Legends/Riot Games, Arriva Trains Wales, and Rolls Royce to name a few.

Brigadier Caroline Woodbridge-Lewin MBE

Commandant Defence College of Technical Training

Brigadier Woodbridge-Lewin was commissioned into the Royal Signals in 1995. Whilst serving, she has secured a Bachelor’s Degree in Electronic Systems Engineering and a Masters in Information Management and Technology (IMT) through Cranfield University and the Royal Military College of Science. She has held various Regimental appointments while serving in the United Kingdom, USA, Cyprus, Germany, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. She has attended the Joint Services Command and Staff College on the Intermediate, Advanced, and more recently the Higher Command and Staff Courses, and has served as a Directing Staff at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the Defence Academy. At staff, she has worked with a Defence Special Customer as a Capability and Acquisition advisor. She has also brought her expertise into Home Command delivering personnel, welfare and casualty services, within the Army Information Directorate as part of the A2020 review team and as Chief of Staff of the Defence Academy. She commanded 2 Signal Regiment from 2016 to 2018 and was awarded the MBE in 2017. In 2020, she assumed the role of Head Information Warfare Group. In 2022, she completed a secondment as the Defence Strategic Liaison Officer to the Home Office and other Government Departments before returning to the Defence Academy to lead and develop the Defence Cyber Academy. She took command of the Defence College of Technical Training as Commandant on promotion in April 2023. Outside of work, Brigadier Woodbridge-Lewin enjoys playing and coaching hockey, running and spending time with her two daughters, Sophie and Amelie, and walking her Labrador Luna.

Dr Elizabeth M. H. Newbury, PhD

Director, Serious Games Initiative, The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars

Dr. Elizabeth M H Newbury is a leading expert in the use of games in engaging the public around policy research. She leverages games as a tool for the public communication of science and policy research, pursuing how public policy and science can come together in an interactive platform to increase public dialogue and engagement around timely and critical issues of today. Her portfolio includes games around the U.S. federal budget, artificial intelligence, and environmental policy. Newbury also is chair of the U.S. Federal Games Guild, an informal community of practice across federal agencies interested in supporting the broader community of games being used for good. She holds a B.A. in anthropology from Bryn Mawr College, and a Master and PhD from the Department of Communication at Cornell University.

Brigadier Kirsten J Dagless OBE

Head Talent, Skills, Learning and Development, Ministry of Defence

Brigadier Kirsten Dagless has spent much of her Army career working in the Personnel Policy, Training, Education and Workforce Planning environment. A highlight was in 2018 when she was assigned as Assistant Head Professional Development, Personnel Policy (Army) in Army HQ. Programme lead for the Army’s Physical Employment Standards, the Army Leadership Development Programme, Army Trainer Capability and Women into Ground Close Combat, she was appointed OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List 2022 for her contribution to female talent development. Brigadier Dagless became Assistant Director Training Operations, HQ Army Recruiting and Initial Training Command in August 2021 where she was responsible for modernisation of soldier Basic Training. Brigadier Dagless returned to the Ministry of Defence in April 2023, where she is currently employed as Head Talent, Skills, Learning and Development.

LTC Jiri Novotny

DE&T Branch Chief, Modelling & Simulation Centre of Excellence

LTC Jiri Novotny has served in the Czech Army since 1991. He began his career in signal units and, subsequently, graduated from the Military Academy in Brno specializing in Special Communication Systems in 2001. After his studies, he served as the Chief of the Communication and Information Systems Group of the 73rd Tank Battalion. Since 2010, he has served as an IT specialist, later Chief of the Department of Technical Assistance and finally as the Deputy Commander at the Centre Simulation and Training Technologies (CSTT) in Brno. At CSTT, LTC Novotny led the team preparing Computer Assisted Exercises (CAX) for the Czech ground force battalions and brigades, but also other security forces, municipalities and foreign Military Task Groups. He also served as the Deputy Director of Staff of HQ RS in Afghanistan in 2018. Currently, LTC Novotny is assigned as the Doctrine, Education and Training Branch Chief at the NATO M&S COE. He is responsible for M&S course design, development, implementation and evaluation within the NATO Global Programming. He is also the lead organizer of the NATO CA2X2 Forum and MESAS Conference.

Mr Wim Huiskamp, MSc

Chief Scientist Modelling & Simulation + Scientific Advisor, NATO MSG liaison to SISO

Wim HUISKAMP is Chief Scientist Modelling & Simulation in the M&S department at TNO Defence Research in the Netherlands. He leads national research programs on M&S on behalf of Dutch MoD. Wim is a member of the NATO Modelling & Simulation Group (NMSG) and served as NMSG Chairman (2013-2016) and before as Chairman of the NMSG M&S Standards Subgroup (MS3). His current role is Scientific Advisor to NMSG. Wim is liaison of the NMSG to the Simulation Interoperability Standards Organization SISO.

Miss Fija Pijpelink

Head of the Wargaming Department, The Royal Netherlands Army

As the Head of the Wargaming Department within the Dutch Army, I am responsible for leading efforts to validate and test operational concepts using simulation systems in conjunction with wargames. With a background in game development, game design and data science, I bring a blend of technological expertise to the realm of military strategy and innovation.

Mr Jonny Walker MEng

Wargaming and OA Team, QinetiQ Training and Simulation Ltd

Jonny is an OA Consultant at QinetiQ who specialises in wargaming and analysis. He has led and delivered a variety of different types of Wargaming projects from Concept Test and Evaluation, Research and Analysis, to Business Continuity Planning and, Sustainability and Resilience Wargaming. He is now sharing the skills and experience he has gained in doing this, to help refine and deliver the DSTL WASP course on Analysis for Wargaming.

Professor Sam Vine

Professor of Psychology, University of Exeter

My research aims to understand the psychology of human performance and learning, using technology (eye tracking, psychophysiological measurement, virtual reality). I aim to understand the psychophysiology of performing complex cognitive and motor skills, and to test training solutions and interventions that might improve performance, health or well-being. I apply my research to a range of different domains (e.g., sport, surgery, military, and aviation) and populations (e.g., children, elite performers and patient groups).

Mr Billy Dale

Product Manager, Skyral Mirror

Billy Dale is the Product Manager for Skyral Mirror, and is responsible for the strategy, development and execution of Skyral's digital twin technologies. He leads the product for Skyral's Defence & Government and Enterprise sectors, leveraging extensive expertise in modelling and simulation. With a robust background in the energy sector and fleet telematics, he has seen the roll-out of IoT and big-data solutions to enhance operational efficiencies and propel organisations and end-users towards net-zero objectives.

Dr Luke Selzer

Senior Principal Systems Engineer, Skyral

Technology leader at Skyral, supporting the exploitation of large-scale modelling and simulation in the defence sector.

Mr Robert Siegfried

Managing Director, Aditerna

Robert is senior consultant for Modelling and Simulation (M&S) projects and professional data management solutions. He is the CEO of Aditerna, a Munich-based small business with an office in Virginia Beach, USA that serves customers around the globe to improve their digital operations.

Mr Mayowa Olonilua

Principal Psychologist (Training and Simulation), Dstl

Mayowa is a Principle human scientist in Dstl’s Exploration division. Mayowa has a worked on a broad selection of human science projects ranging from training for Information activities to live synthetic blend studies to optimize Fast Jet training, and is currently leading research on digital learning technologies such as immersive technology, artificial intelligence and data analytics.

Mr Grant Bailey

DMSO Technical Authority, NATO MSG

Grant joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) as an Engineering Technician for Synthetic Training in May 1981. Following on from a considerable amount of specialist training, he served primarily developing and maintaining the C130K and Harrier GR7 Flight Simulators culminating as an expert in virtual terrains and 3D modelling. Following 15 years of service immediately following the above, Grant joined the MoD in 1996 continuing to lead the team that created virtual terrains for the Harrier GR7 simulator. From there he strayed into the world of IT getting into network, database and application support before returning to the world of simulation in 2005. Grant has been a leading member of the Defence Modelling and Simulation Office (DMSO) Technical Authority for the past 12 years that aims to provide pan Defence M&S Value for Money through coherence delivered via a focus on interoperability and reuse. This coherence results in working with the Front Line Commands, Industry, Other Government Departments and Allies. With over 31 years of experience in his chosen field, Grant now holds a MSc in Defence Simulation & Modelling. He has chaired both the NATO Modelling & Simulation Standards Subgroup (MS3) and the Simulation Interoperability Standards Organization (SISO) Standards Activity Committee (SAC). He now sits on the SISO Executive Committee (EXCOM).

Mr Sam Cullimore

IT Security & Serious Games Lead, Ruddy Nice Ltd

IT & Security Technician at Ruddy Nice Ltd - Technical Lead for Serious Games Showcase and Challenge Europe - SGSCE

Mr William Burnett-Boothroyd

Matrix Pro Sims

William is a recent entrant in the world of defence and wargaming. As the Commercial Officer for Matrix Pro Sims he is a collaborative force with organisations like DSTL, USMC, and STRATCOM in their wargaming efforts. William brings youthful and novel ideas to the wargaming landscape. A lifelong wargamer, William joined groups such as Fight Club International where he assists in running weekly online wargames utilising various digital games to stimulate discussion and learning to an audience with a wide variety of experience and backgrounds. Being a graduate of contemporary military history at the University of Salford, William led efforts to bring educational wargaming to students and staff alike. In addition to individual accomplishments, as a member of the DSET NextGen committee William is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of wargaming talent, actively involved in helping develop university and college leavers into rewarding defence and wargaming careers.

Miss Rosie Lawrence

Mechanical / Structural Aircraft Fitter, Raytheon UK

Rosie is a Mechanical / Structural Aircraft Fitter at Raytheon UK, based in Broughton North Wales. Her role consists of modifying and maintaining RAF Special Mission Aircraft. Prior to Rosie starting her journey into defence in 2017 upon completion of her GCSE’s she went to study L3 BTEC in Engineering at Coleg Cambria, Deeside. This is where she took the decision to uptake an apprenticeship with Raytheon UK. During her time as an apprentice Rosie learnt how to work with the tools and materials required to manufacture aircraft components. She had the opportunity to compete in the UK World Skills Competition where she won her regional event going on to represent Wales at the UK National Finals held at the NEC in Birmingham. In her final year Rosie was named Welsh ‘Apprentice of the Year’ 2020 presented by Made in Wales. Rosie is passionate about helping and inspiring young people where alongside her aircraft manufacturing role she has taken on the Head of STEM for Raytheon UK where she holds responsibility for organising and coordinating stands at many airshows, exhibits and careers fairs across the UK and organising RTX’s Flagship event the ‘Quadcopter Challenge’ where schools from across the UK compete to become Quadcopter champions. In 2022 Rosie was recognised for her outstanding contribution to STEM. When she was named ‘Outstanding STEM Ambassador’ at a ceremony in the House of Lords, receiving her award from Baroness Brown. Rosie is a keen motorsport enthusiast taking part in various track days in her self-prepared Honda Fireblade powered Locost track car. Rosie holds a UEFA B Licence in football coaching, she currently coaches at the Association of Wales’s Academy which sits in the Girls Performance Pathway.

Miss Amy Quinn

Flight Simulation and Synthetic Trainers Engineer, MoD

Amy is a engineer that works with flight simulation and synthetic trainers within the MoD. After leaving school she attended a year in Nuclear Engineering before starting her apprenticeship with the MoD. She completed her degree two and a half years ago and in that time has been exposed and worked on a variety of defence simulation and synthetic trainers. She has always wanted to become an engineer however, fell in love with modelling and simulation during her time as an apprentice and has been developing her knowledge and skills in this specific area ever since.

Miss Holly Sauntson

Business Development Graduate, Raytheon UK

Holly is a Business Development and Strategy analyst on the Raytheon UK (RUK) Graduate Development Programme. Over the course of the two-year programme, all graduates are required to conduct rotations; Holly has the opportunity to work in different roles and business areas within the Business Development and Strategy function. Her current placement is on a complex strategic campaign in Training Transformation Services, working in a Business Development and Capture capacity. So far, this role has presented opportunities to interface directly with the customer, exposure to RUK senior management, as well as attend multiple domestic and international defence conferences and exhibitions. Prior to joining RUK in 2023, Holly completed her A Levels at Boston High School, before undertaking her degree in Politics and American Studies JH at the University of Nottingham. Here she was able to develop her interests in global affairs, political philosophy, civil rights and justice, and security studies. Holly is a member of the RTX Women Inspiring Success and Empowerment (WISE) Employee Resource Group, which focuses on fostering a community that values and empowers women at every stage of their career. WISE are responsible for key RUK policy change relating to parental leave and women’s health, as well the establishment of a professional mentorship scheme. Holly has taken ownership of community-focused initiatives, heading up Book Club and helping organise key WISE events throughout the year. Committed to supporting future generations entering the defence industry, Holly is a STEM Ambassador, supporting outreach initiatives to promote RUK STEM pathways at a variety of air shows, science festivals, and careers fairs. Outside of RUK, Holly is also a member of the DSET NextGen subcommittee, focused on tackling issues around recruiting, retaining and empowering young talent throughout the defence industry.

Mr Simon Harrison

Wargaming Festival Host

Deputy Principal Security Advisor and Info Assurance Lead, British Army

Miss Anna Nettleship

Managing Director, Wargaming Network, KCL

Anna Nettleship is the Managing Director of the King's Wargaming Network, organising wargaming research and events with King's faculty and international partner organisations, and the head of the Network's Wargame Analyst Programme. She is a PhD candidate in the Defence Studies Department writing a dissertation on US Army doctrinal development practices for contemporary conflict that includes the design of an analytic wargame to examine military utility in modern unconventional combat. Previously, Anna Nettleship spent five years active duty as a linguist of Modern Standard Arabic in the United States Army. She has worked on wargames including simulations of conventional, nuclear and hybrid warfare and gray zone conflicts and has spoken on various aspects of wargaming at Connections US and Connections UK.

Mr Paul Ellis

Managing Director, i3 Gen

With a 30-year background in technology marketing and strategic communications consulting, Paul now leads i3 Gen. This specialist consulting company blends the art of wargame design and facilitation with story-crafting and strategic planning. An unusual and varied career journey that has benefited from engaging with diverse client sectors and staying at the leading edge of technology development. This journey was subsequently complemented by his service as a Reserve Officer in the British Army, offering an enhanced perspective that enriches our insights and approach. At i3 Gen, we transform complexity into strategic clarity. Our distinctive fusion of wargaming and narrative-driven strategy equips leaders to tackle strategic challenges, and craft informed plans confidently. We believe wholeheartedly in the transformative power of competitive storytelling to interest audiences, explore insights, and achieve significant impact.

Mr David Taylor

Head of Immersive Capability, QinetiQ

David is the Immersive Capability Lead within QinetiQ, delivering a strategic role for the design and implementation of new XR technologies (virtual, augmented and mixed reality). He has been involved in customer focussed implementation of many cutting edge technologies for the past 25 years, and has been significantly involved in XR solutions for the last ten. David sees the next few years as some of the most exciting for XR, with significant investment now driving rapidly advancing XR devices which paves the way for groundbreaking solutions.

Capt Paul Howarth

Education Advisor, RAF

Paul is a lifelong gamer, with a background in education and training, working with young children up to adults and in a range of contexts, including primary and secondary schools, local authorities and on national programmes. He has researched, designed and conducted games in the classroom, megagames in the community and serious games for Defence and commercial organisations through his company, Story-living Games. As an Army Reservist in Outreach Group, 11 (Security Force Assistance) Brigade, his work includes themes such as Security Capacity Building, Human Security, CIMIC, Culture & Engagement. In his spare time Paul enjoys hill-walking, cycle tours, films and the theatre.

Dr Danny Hyam

Senior Technical Relationship Consultant, Ordnance Survey

A Geology graduate with a doctorate in the Geology of the Falkland Islands he has over 25 years’ experience at Ordnance Survey. Danny joined in the Data Quality team before moving to Marketing and then Consultancy. Within the Consultancy and Technical Services team, he has had responsibility for customer facing demonstrators, been the Operations Manager and most recently become a Senior Consultant with responsibility for the Wales and West region, Local Resilience Sector and Mapping for Emergencies. Danny has a particular interest in evangelising Geography in Education and has been doing schools outreach for a number of years.

Mr Guy Gadney

Co-founder & CEO, Charisma.ai

Guy is CEO of Charisma.ai which is at the forefront of conversational AI for immersive experiences. His background spans technology and training worlds, start-ups and international media organizations. Guy has produced I/ITSEC, Emmy and BAFTA-recognised products, and pioneered AI use for the conversational training and education. With Charisma.ai, Guy is transforming interactive training experiences through the use of AI, producing projects across multiple industry sectors. Guy is on Innovate UK’s BridgeAI Advisory Board, on the Board of Oxford’s Story Museum, and a co-founder of The Collaborative AI Consortium, researching the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Creative Industries.

Maj Paul Spencer

SO2 MLRS Tactical Capability Trainer, 1 Deep Recce Strike BCT

Major Paul Spencer joined the Junior Leaders Regiment in 1986. His initial time saw service across the globe from the High North to the Far East. Like so many of his generation there were multiple tours in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, and Iraq, with a highlight working in the role of SO2 Joint Fires for the Surveillance and Target Acquisition Battery on tours of Afghanistan. Staff jobs included time in 51 Brigade and 1 Artillery Brigade focusing on Training, Simulation and Policy. More recently Major Spencer has been involved with developing, funding, and delivering the MLRS Tactical Capability Trainer (TCT). The TCT will deliver a virtual, networked tactical training system at the unit level which can also connect the FST to the launcher. The system will work as a fully immersed simulator that will allow the detachments to carry out their drills in a tactically controlled environment.

Colonel David Woodley

Wargaming Director, Air War College

Colonel David B. Woodley is an Instructor and Wargaming Director at the Air War College. Col Woodley provides graduate-level instruction to senior military officers, inter-agency civilians, and international military students. He designs course requirements and instructional methodologies, produces syllabi, and teaches in the classroom. As wargaming director, Col Woodley leads Air War College's effort to incorporate wargaming across the entire Air War College curriculum.

Mr Suranga Wickramasekera

Vice President - UK, Pitch Technologies Ltd

Suranga Wickramasekera is Vice President at Pitch Technologies UK; one of the leading companies promoting open standards based solutions for simulation interoperability. Suranga has 20+ years of experience within the aerospace and defence industry in developing modelling and simulation solutions, initially for commercial aviation training, and now specialising in distributed simulation systems for Defence & Space applications. In his role, Suranga works closely with the UK defence and space customers that are looking to develop enduring capabilities based on open standards and architectures.

Lt Col Miguel A. Marazuela

Staff Officer on Synthetic Training Project, European Air Group

LtCol Marazuela currently serves as CIS-CYBER Staff Officer at the European Air Group. He graduated from the Spanish Air Force Academy in 1998. He spent his early career in front lines roles flying F-18 as Instructor, Flight examiner, Flight Commander and Flight Tester. He has held a range of staff appointments at the Combat Command being responsible at A7 for Training and Evaluation Manager or as Flight Safety Advisor. Prior to his assignment at the EAG, he has been Dean of Academics, Head of studies and Head for R&D at the Fighting School with awarded program on Synthetic Training called "PACE for COMBAT" (Personalized Advanced Core Education for a COMpetency-Based with Artificial-intelligence Training) He is a command pilot with more than 3000 hours on jet fighters and a TACEVAL evaluator and instructor for LOG and AIR OPS. He has completed the Joint Staff War Course, a MBA on Organization and different NATO and USAF courses. He shares different publications related to brain neuroplasticity or Flight Safety.

Ms. Jennifer Cassar

Program Manager Land - Trainers, Simulators and Targetry Management, National Defence, Canada

Ms. Cassar was appointed to the role of Program Manager, Land - Trainers, Simulators and Targetry team in December 2016. In order to support the simulation mandate for the group, she is also a member of the NATO UCATT (URBAN COMBAT ADVANCED TRAINING TECHNOLOGIES) Steering Committee. Prior to her role in simulation, Ms. Cassar held a position as an Aviation Systems Project Engineer with the CH146 Griffon helicopter fleet at National Defence and a Mission Planning and Operations Engineer with the Canadian Space Agency. Ms. Cassar graduated from the University of Toronto, Canada with a Bachelor of Applied Science with a specialization in Aerospace Engineering. She also obtained a Master's of Science in Forensic Engineering and Science from Cranfield University, Shrivenham, England.

Police Sergeant James Williams

Technical Skills Trainer, Police National Search Centre

James is a serving police sergeant with over 32 years operational frontline experience. He is skilled in a number of areas including managing the police response to public order and public safety events, planning and implementing police search operations and planning and overseeing the security response to defensive venue and public safety operations. Employed by Avon and Somerset Police he has spent much of his career policing Bristol and the South West. James is currently seconded to the College of Policing's Police National Search Centre as a Technical Skills Trainer.

Mr Chris Horan MSc PGCE BSc (hons) FdSc

SO1 L&D DSCIS, DCTT, 22 Group, Defence College of Technical Training

I have worked for UK MOD within technical training for 14 years, specifically in the Computer Science space. Although I am still involved in teaching my main role is now focused on developing Advanced Distributed Learning. I co-chair the UK MOD ADL WG. I have represented UK MOD at the NATO Learning & Technology Interoperability Group (previously NATO Training Group) for the past five events. The two core outputs of the NATO L&TIG are the NATO STANAG 2591 and ADL Handbook. I lead the work strand on STANAG 2591 while contributing to the NATO ADL Handbook. I live in Dorset with my wife and two children.

Dr. Karl Testor

Austrian Defence Academy

Dr. Karl Testor is a scientist and university lecturer in the fields of Leadership and Neurocognitive Sciences. He focuses on how creativity can evolve in mind as well as on excellency in leadership. As a company owner, his expertise in negotiation training is widely used to enhance leadership and corporate development. Additionally, as a Lieutenant Colonel of the Austrian Armed Forces he brings in extended knowledge in security, strategy and public administration.

Lieutenant Colonel Jake White

SO1 Simulation, Land Warfare Centre

Lt Col Jake White is an infanteer of nearly thirty years’ experience, some of which is relevant! He spent the majority of his time at Regimental Duty, commanding up to Company level, and slightly less time at staff incl: Command and Control, Intelligence, Targeting, ISTAR, Defence Engagement, Arms Control, Info Ops and Project Management. A former requirements manager at Defence Equipment and Support (2016-18) for the Army’s collective training simulation systems, he took a short break before returning as SO1 Simulation at the Land Warfare Centre, where he is responsible for day-to-day contract management of in-service simulation capabilities across the Army. He is keen to explore how partner nations have addressed the challenge of where to best invest in simulation to achieve the greatest improvement in combat effectiveness.

Mr Jay Ballard

Vice President Defence - Learning, Calian Ltd

Jay Ballard is a retired US Naval Aviator, Topgun graduate and combat veteran with more than 3,800 flight hours in four different fighter aircraft and five international deployments. Jay was directing staff (DS) for 13 years at the Canadian Forces College in Toronto, ON and DS for six years at the RCAF Aerospace Warfare Centre at Trenton, ON. He currently leads the 1,500 person Defence division within the Calian Learning Business Unit which is responsible for all global military training and simulation delivery. He lives in Stirling, ON with his wife, Dale.

Mr Niall Campion

Managing Director, Product & Customers, VRAI

Niall Campion is a founder & Managing Director of Product & Customers at VRAI where he is on a mission to transform training outcomes by leveraging the power of untapped data. Niall led projects with customers including Samsung, British Airways, BAE Systems, The United Nations and is currently working with the Royal Air Force to bring data driven insights to their fast jet training programme. Leveraging his background of 15 years in the film and television industry, Niall specialises in technological innovation to engage training audiences in a more interesting way. Niall has a passion for sustainable business and has played a key role in implementing the Triple Bottom Line framework at VRAI. The company measures its success through stakeholder value.This means a focus not just on profit, but also by its impact on people and planet. VRAI recently were recognised for their work in this area by being named Ireland's Most Sustainable Startup at the National Startup Awards. Niall has previously worked in film, television and exhibition design where he developed a passion for creating immersive engaging, technology-driven content for a variety of audiences. He delivered award-winning content for the BBC and RTE, where he created the studio graphics for Ireland's most-watched television programme. He also has an MSc in Sales Management and leads on VRAIs customer engagement.

Mr Ian Greig

Principal Advisor for Training, Education & Simulation Dstl

Ian Greig is a Senior Principal Scientist & Principal Advisor in Exploration Division in Dstl. He has worked in training research for over 30 years, and has used his knowledge & skills from this to contribute to the procurement of many Defence training systems. He has completed secondments into MOD Main, where he worked on strategic training & simulation policy, and into DE&S, directly supporting training system acquisition. He is the UK National Representative for the Human Performance and Resources Group in the 5-Eyes TTCP research collaboration organisation.

Maj Scott Roach

Wargame Section Head, Canadian Joint Warfare Centre

Major in the Canadian Armed Forces. Working as the Wargaming Section Head at the Canadian Joint Warfare Centre. Armoured Officer by trade with service in both the Australian and Canadian Military for 30+ years.

Abi Duggan (BA (Hons), PGCE (PCET), APMP, MSP)

Training Consultant, JOLTS, Team Alliance

Abi specialises in individual and collective training and education solutions for organisations with a safety-critical focus. She has worked in industry for the last twelve years supporting Defence and Rail organisations with safety-critical training needs analyses, competence management strategies and training solutions design. Abi previously served in the British Army as an Education & Training Services (ETS) officer, fusing learning and development expertise with front-line infantry and Battlegroup Headquarters experience.

Mr Justin Megawarne

CTO, Team Alliance, 4GD

Justin Megawarne is responsible for the day-to-day running of 4GD’s R&D. He is a multidisciplinary technical executive, including a non-exec director role at FxPro focused on technical strategy, and a serial director of a number of tech start-ups. He focuses on ice-breaking for particularly challenging technical projects and ideas, especially “blank page” projects, with a methodology of eliminating or mitigating early technical risk prior to financial outlay on the development and build of intended software products and associated hardware. He has worked on systems from the architectural level right down to low-level hardware, across multiple sectors including but not limited to medicine, finance, media, cybersecurity, logistics amongst others. He regularly directs teams to deliver but is also capable of getting into the details with deep competence.

Mr Tom Gray

LTT&RC Service Delivery Manager, Pitch Technologies

Tom is a Systems Architect at Pitch with more than 15 years of experience in design, development, integration and acceptance of military training systems for UK and international customers. Tom is Pitch’s Service Delivery Manager for the Land Training Test and Reference Capability. He has substantial experience in developing and testing federated simulation systems, including systems working across different security classifications. Tom is also an active member within the Simulation Interoperability Standards Organisation (SISO) and has contributed to the development and standardisation of multiple products.

Mr. Bharatkumar Patel

NATO MSG Chair and DSTL Fellow, NATO Science and Technology Organisation and DSTL, UK MOD

Bharat Patel is the Chair of NATO Modelling and Simulation Group (NMSG) and a Chief and Fellow for Transformative Technologies within the Exploration Division of the UK MOD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. He leads on transformative technologies that drive future and disruptive developments in simulation systems, synthetic environments, digital conceptualisation and experimentation. He specialises in exploitation of these technologies in multi-domain operational training and exercising, operational decision support and C2 systems, autonomy/AI and Space systems, digital twins and capability assurance. He has lead and mentored pioneering teams in High Level Architecture (HLA), Joint Synthetic Training, C2-Simulation Interoperability, Cognitive AI Agents, Operational Decision Support, Modelling and Simulation as a Service, Digital Twins and the NATO Architecture Framework. He was awarded the Individual NATO Scientific Excellence Award in 2021 for Modelling and Simulation. He is also the UK’s Principal Member for NATO’s Systems Concepts and Integration Panel. His favourite past-time is being young again with his two grandchildren, and playing tennis.

Wing Commander Mark Still MA RAF

Officer Commanding Air Battlespace Training Centre, Air & Space Warfare Centre, Royal Air Force

Still joined the RAF in November 1999 after studying Aerospace Engineering at Farnborough. His early service saw him operate both variants of the Tornado in the Air Defence and Ground Attack and Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance roles and he is a graduate of the Qualified Weapons Instructor and Advanced Command and Staff Courses. He has deployed worldwide in multiple training and operational roles including the Quick Reaction Alert commitment in the UK and Falkland Islands, as well as multiple deployments on Operation TELIC, HERRICK, ELLAMY and SHADER. He has fulfilled operational, Personal Staff Officer and capability aquisiton roles throughout his career. His acquisition portfolio includes key programmes such as the tri-Service UK Military Flying Training System, Defence Operational Training Capability (Air) and most recently the Future Combat Air System Technology Initiative. Still’s current role, assumed in May 2022, is Officer Commanding the ABTC, charged with the delivery of Gladiator as an operational capability.

Colonel Olaf Werner

Division Head, NATO Join Force Training Centre

Colonel Olaf Werner is a Division Head at the NATO Joint Force Training Centre (JFTC) in Bydgoszcz. Poland, responsible not only for support to the Warfare Development program of NATO as well as the IT and M&S support to NATO Command Post Exercises but also the development of a new JFTC capability. The aim is to develop a tool to support the testing and refinement of current military real-world tactical level operational plans by conducting a computer-assisted wargame with the respective NATO HQs responsible for the deterrence and (if required) defence of our countries at the eastern flank of NATO. Colonel Werner is a Cavalry Officer by nature and has a wide range of operational experience from various levels from the lowest unit level up to the German Ministry of Defence, NATO Multinational Corps Northeast (MNC NE) in Poland and several operational missions to the Balkans and Afghanistan. On top of his own wide operational background, he has been in charge of several NATO Computer Assisted Exercises at MNC NE for 5 years and builds on this experience in his current position at NATO JFTC. COL Olaf Werner holds a university degree (Dipl-Ing) in Aerospace Engineering from the University of German Armed Forces in Munich, continued his studies at the German Command and General Staff College in Hamburg and during his Post-Graduate Operational-Strategic Studies at the Polish National Defence University. He is a “newcomer” to the wargaming community, but bringing a lot of sponsor/customer experience to the table, which he now is facing from “the other side” as the potential wargaming director at NATO Joint Force Training Centre!

Mr Rusmat Ahmed

SVP Sales EMEA and Asia, Bohemia Interactive Simulations

SVP Sales EMEA and Asia, Bohemia Interactive Simulations

Mr Jon Lloyd

Principal Engineer, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory

Jon Lloyd is a Senior Principal Advisor on Training, Education and Simulation to the MOD Chief Scientific Advisor funded Future Workforce and Human Performance (FW&HP) Research Programme. As part of this role I provide advice on how Training, Education and Simulation technology research can be specifically exploited within Strategic Command, Other Government Departments and DE&S. I also lead Defence simulation research engagement with the supply chain through a Synthetic Environment Community of Practice (COP) and SERAPIS commercial framework, ensuring Defence has rapid access to supplier capabilities that are aligned to meeting the emerging and future needs of Defence. I have 20+ years’ experience in the development of Modelling and Simulation approaches to Defence applications for Operational Analysis, Decision Support and Training and Education.

Mr Mark Lewis MEng (Hons) MSc CEng MRAeS FHEA

Chief Systems Engineer, Nova Systems International

After 11 years as an Air Engineer, Mark joined the Defence Simulation and Modelling MSc teaching staff at Cranfield University at the Defence Academy of the UK, as well as teaching he's been involved in Niteworks and Dstl M&S studies. After a short break from defence running a Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship and a Cloud Banking Team, Mark came back into defence M&S. Initially working with Team Fisher on the Royal Navy Selborne Programme, he's currently Chief Systems Engineer at Nova Systems International and support the RN as Technical Lead for the Spartan Programme, and recently been appointed a NATO M&S Group Member at Large.

Major Nathan Flye

SO2 Capability Integration, HQ Field Army

Nathan has served with the British Army since 2013. He is married with two children and an excitable Labrador. An amateur triathlete, Nathan completed his first iron-distance race last year and is preparing for Ironman Copenhagen this August.

Professor Carolina Cruz-Neira

Agere Chair Professor in Computer Science, University of Central Florida

Dr. Carolina Cruz-Neira, a member of the National Academy of Engineering, is a pioneer in the areas of virtual reality (VR), interactive visualization, and digital twins. Her work has translated to standard tools in industry, government, and academia. She is known world-wide for being the creator of the CAVE VR system and for transferring research into practice by spearheading several Open-Source initiatives, such as VRJuggler, and by leading entrepreneurial initiatives to commercialize research. She has over 100 publications and has been awarded over $400 million in grants, contracts, and donations. She is recognized for founding successful VR research centers: the Virtual Reality Applications Center at Iowa State University, the Louisiana Immersive Technologies Enterprise, and the Emerging Analytics Center at the University of Arkansas. She serves in international technology boards, government technology advisory committees. She enjoys intersecting her research with the arts and the humanities through performances and installations. She has been named one of the top innovators in virtual reality and one of the top three greatest women visionaries in VR. She is the first person inducted to the National Academy of Engineering for contributions to immersive technologies and VR, she is a member of the IEEE VR Academy, an IEEE Fellow, an ACM Computer Pioneer, and an AWE XR Hall of Fame member; She received the IEEE VR Achievement Award and the International Digital Media & Arts Society Distinguished Career Award among many national and international recognitions. She has given numerous keynote addresses and she advises government on how VR can help to give industries a competitive edge leading to regional economic growth. She has appeared in numerous national and international TV shows and podcasts as an expert on her discipline and several documentaries have been produced about her life and career. Currently, Dr. Cruz is the Agere Chair in Computer Science at the University of Central Florida.

Mr Simon Pearce

Training & Simulation Systems Portfolio, DE&S

Simon joined the Ministry of Defence as Technician Apprentice in Electronic Engineering in 1984. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, Simon held numerous positions within the Strategic Systems Programme culminating in a 3½ year posting to the USA as the United Kingdom Representative at the Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland. Following his return from the USA in 2001, he spent five years working on acquisition reform. He supported the development of the Defence Industrial Strategy and worked on the Enabling Acquisition Change study where he led on Through Life Capability Management. Simon joined TSSP (Training & Simulation Systems Portfolio) in 2006 where he led the Constructive and Virtual Systems section. In 2013 he was promoted and appointed TSSP Portfolio Leader where he is responsible for procurement and support of training and simulation systems for both the Army and United Kingdom Strategic Command. Over the past 12 months, as well as continuing in this role, Simon has worked on development of the DE&S Op Model, supporting design of the DE&S Portfolio Office, and conducting scenario testing of the new model.

Miss Sacha Nacouzi

Kings College London

Wargamer for NATO’s Joint Warfare Centre. Designing wargames for major exercises as well as in support of concept development and stand-alone wargames. Co-founder of SSG, a company delivering wargames for government institutions, NGOs and the commercial sector. Supporting the Multi-National Information Operations Experiment (MNIOE) in their wargaming efforts and designing the wargaming framework. Also an British Army reservist endeavouring the popularise wargaming in the Armed Forces.

Mr Tim Woodcock

Head Defence Modelling and Simulation Office, UK Strategic Command

Tim joined the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) in 2012 as an Operational Analyst in the C4ISR area. He has worked in a range of MOD Head Office roles including Cyber and Space Policy, Finance and Military Capability (Capability Strategy), and Defence Science and Technology; all of which focused on the use of Modelling and Simulation to provide support to decision makers. For the past 4 years Tim has worked in UK Strategic Command initially providing Scientific Advice to the Equipment programme. In June 2023 Tim took on the role of acting Head of the Defence Modelling and Simulation Office in Joint Warfare in UK Strategic Command.

Commodore Jo Deakin OBE RN

Deputy Director People – Training, Royal Navy

Cdre Jo Deakin joined the Royal Navy in 1994 as an Air Engineer Officer and she has served on a number of Squadron and Air Station assignments supporting fixed and rotary wing aviation throughout her career. In acquisition, she has been engineering authority for tri-service aero-engines; developed Merlin Helicopter integration solutions for RN surface platforms; and been the lead for the operational integration of the RAF’s Puma 2 helicopter. Training assignments have included: Training Delivery (1994-1996), Training Requirement Authority for Air Engineering (2017-2019), 2IC of the Royal Naval Air Engineering School (2010-2013); Defence College of Technical Training Portfolio Manager; Cdr AE at Yeovilton as the Training Provider for AE and Aviation support training (2013-15); and most recently as Commanding Officer of HMS SULTAN and Commandant of DSMarE (2022-2024). More broadly, she was the last Principal Aircraft Engineer in OP HERRICK responsible for all UK military helicopters and UAVs. In NCHQ, she was Fleet Air Engineering Officer and DACOS (AE); She is an alumnus of Windsor Leadership and was awarded an OBE in the 2017 New Year’s Honours list. In 2018 she undertook a professional placement with Ernst Young Consultants as a trailblazer for the RN’s personal development programme. She is a graduate of RCDS. In January 2024 she was appointed Deputy Director People – Training. Jo lives in Hamble with her husband and dogs and spends her spare time skiing, sailing, gun dog training and supporting STEM activities.

Tom Mouat

Officer Command the Defence Modelling & Simulation School, Defence Academy of the UK

Major Tom Mouat MBE MSc PGCE psc ato sim Tom is a graduate of the Army Staff College and has served in the Army since 1977. He is an expert in both manual and computer-based simulations and running large scale military training exercises. He served with the ARRC including 12 months in Bosnia and was awarded an MBE. He also ran the Army's principal land-based simulation system for 3 years and served in the UK MOD's procurement organisation dealing with simulation systems for 5 years, where he was awarded the Chief of efence Material’s Commendation for innovation. He has an MSc in Simulation & Modelling and is co-author of several books on simulation and professional Wargaming. He is currently the Officer Commanding the Defence Simulation and Modelling School at the Defence Academy of the UK, where he was awarded the Chief Scientific Officer's Commendation for his contribution to science and technology.

Lt Cdr Stephen Gowling RN

SPARTAN Programme Officer, Royal Navy

Lt Cdr Gowling has been serving in the Royal Navy since 2011, joining the Service as a Warfare Officer, training across multiple Ships before undertaking the roles of Officer of the Watch and Boarding Officer onboard HMS IRON DUKE until 2016. After two years in charge of a Training Division for Phase 1 recruits at HMS RALEIGH, he was selected for transfer across to the Training Management branch where he undertook roles in Training Requirements, Learning and Development, and most recently, Programme Management as the SPARTAN Programme Officer. He is currently leading the programme to develop distributed collective synthetic training capabilities for the RN.

Miss Verity Dixon (AORS)

Wargaming Analyst, Dstl

I am a Wargaming Analyst at the Defence Wargaming Centre (DWC) which sits in the Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (Dstl). My focus is in the tactical space where I often investigate the benefits and limitations different capabilities may bring to a future force in the land domain. Other areas of interest including climate change wargaming and Dstl's recent initiative, Women in Wargaming. Women in Wargaming aim to provide underrepresented groups with the skills and confidence to partake in wargaming by overcoming key barriers to diversification in the professional wargaming community.

Miss Ritchie Lloyd-Walker

Analyst, Dstl

At age 10, I thought it would be fun to divide my friends up into teams, pretend that we were on a spaceship, and then ask my friends what they would do in a series of scenarios. In the intervening 30 years I have been involved professionally and personally in games and gaming spaces, from tiny bespoke games to large-scale live events for thousands of people.

Mr Eric Norton

Complex Training Workshop

Calian Defence Ltd

Dan Turcotte

Complex Training Workshop

Calian Defence Ltd

Rusty Orwin

Raytheon UK

Raytheon UK

Nick Riggs

PhD student studying small unit wargaming

Since starting my part-time PhD, I have presented and run games at international professional conventions such as DSET, Connections UK and Connections Oz. I'm an active member of Fight Club International. I'm also a wargaming and operational analyst at Qinetiq Training & Simulation.

David Burden

PhD Student Bath Spa University

Wargaming Host

Mr Ian Robinson

Fight Club International

Wargaming Host

Mr Rich Millington

Fight Club International

Wargaming Host

Cord Cardinal

Battlespace Simulations Inc

Industry Showcase Webinar speaker

Mr Keith Martin-Smith

Games Master, HexWar Games Ltd

A lifelong wargamer Keith published his first commercial digital wargame in 1981. As well as having design credits on over 40 commercial wargames, he has had a varied career, from running IT at a health authority, through variety of roles at Dell Computer Corporation, including head of marketing research. Then as a Director with Dixons Store Group, and as head of games development at a gambling company. He remains a very keen competitive gamer. Over the years he has won dozens of wargames tournaments across Europe and as well as at popular board games such as ‘Ticket to Ride’. Keith is Games Master and CEO at HexWar Games Ltd., part of the Code Wizards Group, developing and delivering digital games and gaming infrastructure for the defence industry. 10 years in the TAVR.

Andy Box

Leonardo

Leonardo Industry Showcase Webinar Speaker

Pete Swan

Director, International Business, MAK

Industry Showcase Webinar Speaker

David Lever

Senior Business Development Manager

I am a Senior Business Development Manager for RINA. At RINA, we use our expertise to drive your growth. Our independent, unbiased, and auditable approach to developing training solutions is founded on our team of highly qualified and experienced training consultants, DSAT practitioners and education specialists, and reinforced by our in-house instructional design and multimedia capabilities.

Simon Leng

SimCentric

Industry Showcase Webinar Speaker

Mr Stu Armstrong

By Light

Industry Showcase Webinar Speaker

DSET24Panel Chat

DSET Team

DSE TEAM