UWTSD Celebrates Prestigious National Honours for Explosives Engineering Experts

1 July 2025

The ��Ҵ�ý (UWTSD) is proud to announce the recognition of two exceptional individuals, Mr Thomas Volpato and Dr Gareth Collett CBE, at the prestigious Institute of Explosives Engineers (IExpE) Fulmination Conference in Nottingham.

Two men dressed in black dinner suits with one holding an award, pictured against the backdrop of an events awards dinner.

At the heart of the UK energetics industry’s biennial gathering, both were honoured for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the field of explosives engineering and safety.

Mr Thomas Volpato was awarded Apprentice of the Year by the Institute, marking a significant milestone in his development as an explosives technician. The award, presented by his mentor, Dr Gareth Collett CBE, recognised Thomas’s academic excellence, achieving distinctions both in his studies and in his End Point Assessment, as well as his professionalism, curiosity, and commitment to the industry.

Currently employed by QinetiQ, Thomas has emerged as a valued contributor to the energetics sector. His success reflects not only personal dedication but also the high calibre of the Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives Apprenticeship programme at UWTSD.

Later in the evening, the recognition came full circle when Dr Collett himself was honoured with the President’s Prize, presented by Mr Martyn Sime, President of the Institute of Explosives Engineers. This prestigious award is granted for outstanding contributions to humanity, industry, and science.

Dr Collett’s contributions span critical and life-saving work across multiple domains. He has played a vital role in:

The clearance of unexploded ordnance in conflict zones,
Mitigating explosion risks aboard damaged oil tankers in high-threat regions like the Gulf of Aden,
Supporting UK industry in building advanced technical capabilities crucial to national security,
And raising awareness of occupational health risks associated with explosive materials.

Both awards stand as a testament to the dedication, skill, and ethical responsibility that define the explosives engineering profession and underline the importance of education, mentorship, and applied science in advancing public safety and industrial progress.

UWTSD extends its warmest congratulations to Thomas Volpato and Dr Gareth Collett, CBE on their remarkable achievements and recognition by the Institute of Explosives Engineers. These honours reflect not only individual excellence but also the strength of partnerships between academia and industry in transforming lives and shaping safer futures.

Pic captions: Main image - Dr Gareth Collet, CBE with Thomas Volpato

Second image: Dr Gareth Collett, CBE with Mr Martyn Sime