January 21, 2025
The British Drilling Association (BDA) Marketing Sub-committee convened on 17th January 2025 via Teams, to discuss progress on ongoing initiatives and plans for future events aimed at advancing the Association’s objectives and increasing member engagement.
Key Highlights:
- BDA Gala & Awards 2024: Feedback from the 2024 event has been reviewed, with lessons learned incorporated into plans for 2025. A new award category, “Best Audited Driller,” has been introduced, alongside updates to judging criteria. The 2025 event will be held on 28th November, at York Millner, with sponsorships actively sought and discounted accommodations arranged for guests.
- BDA Conference 2025: Scheduled for 21st May, at the National Memorial Arboretum in Burton-on-Trent, the conference will focus on sustainability under the theme, “Engineering the Energy Shift: Drilling for a Low Carbon Future”. Leading industry have been invited to present, with several acceptances received. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Networking during the extended lunch break is a priority for delegate and exhibitor interaction.
- GeoDrilling International Magazine: Is now an electronic publication – no further print copies will be produced. The magazine is accessible electronically (at no cost – as a member benefit) for BDA members.
- Media and Social Media Engagement: Articles promoting BDA activities, including on-site theft, driving fatigue, and mental health, continue to drive member engagement. Sub-committee-generated content and blog opportunities remain a key focus for 2025.
- BDA Golf Day 2025: Planning is already underway for the annual BDA Golf Day, which has been arranged for the 4th September 2025. The stunning Forest of Arden has been confirmed as the Venue. Sponsorship opportunities will be available for this event.
- Upcoming Events: A new “Fun Day” event has been proposed for July 2025, with the aim of fostering industry camaraderie while incurring no cost to the Association. More detail will be made available soon.
The next meeting will take place on 21st March 2025.